
E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, Matthew Wheaton,
ILLUSTRATIONS.
Chapter I.
Chapter II.
Chapter III.
Chapter IV.
Chapter V.
Chapter VI.
Chapter VII.
Chapter VIII.
In a quiet winter village, three youngsters—Aleck, the bright‑eyed brass‑worker; his sister Kate, steady and caring; and their twelve‑year‑old brother Jim—spend a crisp December day skating across a frozen lake toward an old lighthouse. Their laughter echoes over the ice as they cover nearly twenty miles, trading friendly competition for the simple joy of gliding on crystal‑clear surfaces. After the long ride they return to their modest cottage, where a crackling fire and warm tea await, hinting at a close‑knit family life that feels both ordinary and generous.
The day’s adventure soon turns into a test of endurance when the ice begins to shift, leaving the trio isolated on a frozen expanse. Forced to rely on Aleck’s practical skills, Kate’s resourcefulness, and Jim’s quick thinking, they must fashion shelter, find food, and confront the stark northern elements. Their bond is stretched, yet the story promises a spirited blend of courage and youthful ingenuity as they navigate each new hurdle.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (248K characters)
Release date
2012-03-20
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1852–1946
A lively American naturalist and travel writer, he turned field experience into books that brought wildlife, exploration, and science within reach of ordinary readers. His work ranged from the Rocky Mountains and western surveys to popular nature writing and children's adventure stories.
View all books