
A gritty adventure unfolds as a group of young boys are torn from their homes and thrust into a harsh world of forced labor. The story opens on a remote ranch where the boys, barely more than children, must adapt to grueling tasks and the unforgiving rhythm of their overseers. Their daily routine is punctuated by fleeting moments of camaraderie, daring mischief, and the quiet hope that freedom might still be within reach.
Through vivid descriptions of the rugged landscape and the stark contrast between the boys’ innocence and the brutal realities they face, the narrative captures both the physical and emotional toll of captivity. As the youngsters learn to survive, they also begin to uncover the hidden strengths within themselves, setting the stage for a daring plan that could change their fate. The early chapters lay a powerful foundation for an unforgettable tale of courage, resilience, and the yearning for liberty.
Language
en
Duration
~9 hours (550K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Mary Meehan and The Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2010-02-26
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1818–1883
Best known for fast-moving adventure tales set on the American frontier, he turned his own travels and wartime experience into stories that fired the imaginations of young readers. His novels mix danger, landscape, and natural history in a way that still feels vivid.
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