
In the summer of 1758, a pair of English families makes their home on the rugged Mount Desert Island, a landmark known to sailors for its thirteen soaring peaks. Their modest log houses sit within a sturdy palisade, a simple defense against the ever‑present threat of nearby Native warriors and the lingering rivalry between French and English colonists. Life on the island is a blend of hard work, hopeful settlement, and quiet anticipation of what the wild New England coast might bring.
When rumors of an approaching attack reach the settlement, the children step forward, turning ordinary chores into acts of bravery. They improvise lookout platforms, guard the gateway, and rally the community to ready weapons and barricades. As tension builds, the families discover that courage and cooperation can turn even the smallest island into a stronghold against danger.
Language
en
Duration
~2 hours (136K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Zechariah Stover (ZechariahStover.com)
Release date
2010-12-04
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1848–1912
Best known for lively historical adventures and stories for young readers, this prolific American writer published under the pen name James Otis and helped shape late-19th-century children's fiction. His books often mix action, patriotism, and everyday courage in a way that still feels inviting.
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