Tom Gerrard By: Louis Becke (1855-1913)
Tom Gerrard is a captivating novel written by Louis Becke, exploring themes of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. Set in the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Islands, the story follows the eponymous character Tom Gerrard, a young man hungry for excitement and looking to break away from the monotony of his everyday life. Becke expertly paints a vivid picture of life in the exotic islands, immersing readers in a world filled with crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and vibrant cultures. From the moment Tom sets foot on the islands, his journey becomes a whirlwind of thrilling encounters, unexpected dangers, and transformative experiences. One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in the depth and complexity of its characters. Tom Gerrard, the protagonist, is a multi-layered individual who evolves throughout the narrative. From his initial restless and naive mindset, Tom gradually learns valuable life lessons that shape his character and allow him to grow into a mature, self-aware young man. It is through his friendships with diverse island dwellers, such as the enigmatic Kanaka warrior Nakata or the wise old suspect Dougle, that Tom learns about the world and ultimately discovers his true self. Becke's writing style is rich and descriptive, evoking the sounds, sights, and scents of the Pacific Islands with incredible detail. The novel's prose transports readers to these faraway lands, causing a longing to visit and experience the magic for themselves. The author's knowledge and experience of the Pacific Islands are apparent, as the depicted cultures and traditions are authentic and respectfully portrayed. Furthermore, Becke's focus on the hardships faced by the indigenous populations and their struggle against colonial forces adds depth and social commentary to the narrative. These elements help shed light on the historical injustices that occurred during this period and give the story a sense of urgency and relevance. While the story is captivating and the characters well-developed, some readers might find the pace of the novel slightly inconsistent. At times, the narrative accelerates, propelling readers forward with a sense of urgency. However, in other instances, the pacing slows, allowing for introspective moments and deeper character exploration. This fluctuation may appeal to some readers, but others might find it a bit jarring. Overall, Tom Gerrard is a compelling tale that transports readers to the enchanting and treacherous world of the Pacific Islands. Louis Becke skillfully combines adventure, culture, and self-reflection to create a truly immersive reading experience. Anyone seeking a captivating story with rich characters and a well-researched backdrop will not be disappointed by this novel. First Page: TOM GERRARD By Louis Becke T. Fisher Unwin 1904 To "ALREMA" I DEDICATE THIS STORY OF HER FATHER'S NATIVE LAND Caen, France. 1904. CHAPTER I "Hallo! young lady, what on earth are you doing here?" and Gerrard bent down over his horse's shoulder, and looked inquiringly into the face of a small and exceedingly ill clad girl of about ten years of age. "Nothing, sir, I only came out for a walk, and to get some pippies." "And where do you get them?" "Down there, sir, on the sand," and the child pointed with a strong, sun browned hand to the beach, which was within a mile. "Eat them?" "Yes they're lovely. Jim and I roast them in the stockman's kitchen when auntie has gone to bed." "And who is Jim?" "Jim Incubus; I'm Mary Incubus." "Mary what ?" "Incubus, sir." Gerrard dismounted, and tying his reins to a stirrup, let his horse graze. Then taking his pipe out of his pocket, he filled and lit it, and motioned to the child to sit down beside him upon a fallen honeysuckle tree. "What is your auntie's name, my dear?" and he took the child's hand in his. "Mrs Elizabeth Westonley." "Ah! I thought so. Now, did you ever hear her talk of an Uncle Tom?" "Yes, sir," replied the child, wonderingly, "he's a cattleman in the Northern Territory... Continue reading book >>

Tom Gerrard By: Louis Becke (1855-1913)

Tom Gerrard is a captivating novel written by Louis Becke, exploring themes of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. Set in the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Islands, the story follows the eponymous character Tom Gerrard, a young man hungry for excitement and looking to break away from the monotony of his everyday life.

Becke expertly paints a vivid picture of life in the exotic islands, immersing readers in a world filled with crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and vibrant cultures. From the moment Tom sets foot on the islands, his journey becomes a whirlwind of thrilling encounters, unexpected dangers, and transformative experiences.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in the depth and complexity of its characters. Tom Gerrard, the protagonist, is a multi-layered individual who evolves throughout the narrative. From his initial restless and naive mindset, Tom gradually learns valuable life lessons that shape his character and allow him to grow into a mature, self-aware young man. It is through his friendships with diverse island dwellers, such as the enigmatic Kanaka warrior Nakata or the wise old suspect Dougle, that Tom learns about the world and ultimately discovers his true self.

Becke's writing style is rich and descriptive, evoking the sounds, sights, and scents of the Pacific Islands with incredible detail. The novel's prose transports readers to these faraway lands, causing a longing to visit and experience the magic for themselves. The author's knowledge and experience of the Pacific Islands are apparent, as the depicted cultures and traditions are authentic and respectfully portrayed.

Furthermore, Becke's focus on the hardships faced by the indigenous populations and their struggle against colonial forces adds depth and social commentary to the narrative. These elements help shed light on the historical injustices that occurred during this period and give the story a sense of urgency and relevance.

While the story is captivating and the characters well-developed, some readers might find the pace of the novel slightly inconsistent. At times, the narrative accelerates, propelling readers forward with a sense of urgency. However, in other instances, the pacing slows, allowing for introspective moments and deeper character exploration. This fluctuation may appeal to some readers, but others might find it a bit jarring.

Overall, Tom Gerrard is a compelling tale that transports readers to the enchanting and treacherous world of the Pacific Islands. Louis Becke skillfully combines adventure, culture, and self-reflection to create a truly immersive reading experience. Anyone seeking a captivating story with rich characters and a well-researched backdrop will not be disappointed by this novel.

First Page:

TOM GERRARD

By Louis Becke

T. Fisher Unwin 1904

To "ALREMA"

I DEDICATE THIS STORY OF HER FATHER'S NATIVE LAND

Caen, France. 1904.

CHAPTER I

"Hallo! young lady, what on earth are you doing here?" and Gerrard bent down over his horse's shoulder, and looked inquiringly into the face of a small and exceedingly ill clad girl of about ten years of age.

"Nothing, sir, I only came out for a walk, and to get some pippies."

"And where do you get them?"

"Down there, sir, on the sand," and the child pointed with a strong, sun browned hand to the beach, which was within a mile.

"Eat them?"

"Yes they're lovely. Jim and I roast them in the stockman's kitchen when auntie has gone to bed."

"And who is Jim?"

"Jim Incubus; I'm Mary Incubus."

"Mary what ?"

"Incubus, sir."

Gerrard dismounted, and tying his reins to a stirrup, let his horse graze. Then taking his pipe out of his pocket, he filled and lit it, and motioned to the child to sit down beside him upon a fallen honeysuckle tree.

"What is your auntie's name, my dear?" and he took the child's hand in his.

"Mrs Elizabeth Westonley."

"Ah! I thought so. Now, did you ever hear her talk of an Uncle Tom?"

"Yes, sir," replied the child, wonderingly, "he's a cattleman in the Northern Territory... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – Louis Becke
Wikipedia – Tom Gerrard

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