
audiobook
by James Otis
In this vivid portrait of the United States Lighthouse Service, listeners are taken aboard the isolated outposts that guard the treacherous New England coast. Through the eyes of a grizzled veteran of the Civil War and his steadfast captain, the story captures the rugged routine of polishing lenses, battling fog, and the tight‑knit camaraderie that keeps the lights burning night after night. The opening scene, with its salty humor and the clamor of a sudden, mysterious vessel on the horizon, sets the tone for a tale steeped in maritime tradition and personal grit.
The narrative weaves together the practical challenges of lighthouse duty with the human stories behind each beam—old friendships rekindled, the stubborn pride of seasoned keepers, and the ever‑present danger of the sea. Listeners will feel the wind, hear the distant rumble of waves, and share in the quiet heroism of those who lived in constant watchfulness. It’s a compelling glimpse into a world where duty, isolation, and resilience shine as brightly as the lanterns themselves.
Language
en
Duration
~7 hours (417K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Edwards, David K. Park and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)
Release date
2013-02-03
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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