To The West By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)
To The West by George Manville Fenn is a captivating adventure novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the Wild West. Set in the mid-19th century, the story revolves around two young brothers, Tom and Harry, who find themselves caught up in a dangerous quest for gold and survival. The author does an exceptional job of immersing readers in the vivid landscapes of the American frontier. Fenn's descriptions of the untamed wilderness and vast mountains are so vivid that one can almost smell the dry desert air and feel the heat of the sun on their skin. These atmospheric details create a strong sense of place, which adds to the authenticity of the setting. The characters in To The West are well-developed and relatable. Tom and Harry, in particular, are endearing protagonists whose journey from innocence to maturity is beautifully portrayed. As they face various challenges and encounter a colorful cast of supporting characters, readers can't help but become invested in their story. One aspect of the novel that stands out is the author's ability to seamlessly blend action and suspense. The pacing is excellent, with each chapter leaving readers eager to find out what happens next. The tense moments, such as encounters with hostile Native American tribes or dangerous outlaws, are written with such intensity that the reader can almost feel their heart racing along with the characters. Furthermore, Fenn's writing style is both straightforward and engaging, making the book accessible to readers of different ages and interests. He expertly balances dialogue, description, and action, ensuring that the story never becomes stagnant or overwhelming. However, there are a few shortcomings to consider. The plot, while exciting, sometimes leans towards predictability. Some readers may find themselves guessing the outcomes of certain events or foreseeing particular plot twists. Additionally, the book occasionally relies on stereotypes when portraying Native American characters, which can be a little disappointing and dated. Overall, To The West is an enthralling adventure that will transport readers to a bygone era of frontier life. George Manville Fenn's descriptive prose, well-crafted characters, and thrilling plot combine to create a memorable reading experience for fans of historical fiction and adventure novels. Despite its minor flaws, this book remains an enjoyable journey into the heart of the Wild West. First Page: To The West, by George Manville Fenn. At fifteen hours this is a fairly long book for this author. It starts with two young men working as clerks in the offices of a tyrannical auctioneer. Fed up with his unpleasant behaviour they give up their jobs and determine to set out for British Columbia. To get there they must take passage in a ship going round the Horn, and up to San Francisco. Then they have to make their way further up the coast to their destination. On the way they encounter various characters, some good and honourable, and others very much the reverse. Finally they arrive and set to work seeking for gold. Of course there are more adventures and tense situations, as you would expect from this author. Fenn is very good at describing places, even ones to which he has never been. Personally I prefer the books set in England, but that is not to say that this book is anything but most enjoyable, and I commend it to you. TO THE WEST, BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN. CHAPTER ONE. MR. JOHN DEMPSTER. "What would I do, sir? Why, if I were as poor as you say you are, and couldn't get on here, I'd go abroad." "But where, sir? where to?" "Anywhere... Continue reading book >>

To The West By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)

To The West by George Manville Fenn is a captivating adventure novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the Wild West. Set in the mid-19th century, the story revolves around two young brothers, Tom and Harry, who find themselves caught up in a dangerous quest for gold and survival.

The author does an exceptional job of immersing readers in the vivid landscapes of the American frontier. Fenn's descriptions of the untamed wilderness and vast mountains are so vivid that one can almost smell the dry desert air and feel the heat of the sun on their skin. These atmospheric details create a strong sense of place, which adds to the authenticity of the setting.

The characters in To The West are well-developed and relatable. Tom and Harry, in particular, are endearing protagonists whose journey from innocence to maturity is beautifully portrayed. As they face various challenges and encounter a colorful cast of supporting characters, readers can't help but become invested in their story.

One aspect of the novel that stands out is the author's ability to seamlessly blend action and suspense. The pacing is excellent, with each chapter leaving readers eager to find out what happens next. The tense moments, such as encounters with hostile Native American tribes or dangerous outlaws, are written with such intensity that the reader can almost feel their heart racing along with the characters.

Furthermore, Fenn's writing style is both straightforward and engaging, making the book accessible to readers of different ages and interests. He expertly balances dialogue, description, and action, ensuring that the story never becomes stagnant or overwhelming.

However, there are a few shortcomings to consider. The plot, while exciting, sometimes leans towards predictability. Some readers may find themselves guessing the outcomes of certain events or foreseeing particular plot twists. Additionally, the book occasionally relies on stereotypes when portraying Native American characters, which can be a little disappointing and dated.

Overall, To The West is an enthralling adventure that will transport readers to a bygone era of frontier life. George Manville Fenn's descriptive prose, well-crafted characters, and thrilling plot combine to create a memorable reading experience for fans of historical fiction and adventure novels. Despite its minor flaws, this book remains an enjoyable journey into the heart of the Wild West.

First Page:

To The West, by George Manville Fenn.

At fifteen hours this is a fairly long book for this author. It starts with two young men working as clerks in the offices of a tyrannical auctioneer. Fed up with his unpleasant behaviour they give up their jobs and determine to set out for British Columbia. To get there they must take passage in a ship going round the Horn, and up to San Francisco. Then they have to make their way further up the coast to their destination. On the way they encounter various characters, some good and honourable, and others very much the reverse. Finally they arrive and set to work seeking for gold. Of course there are more adventures and tense situations, as you would expect from this author.

Fenn is very good at describing places, even ones to which he has never been. Personally I prefer the books set in England, but that is not to say that this book is anything but most enjoyable, and I commend it to you.

TO THE WEST, BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN.

CHAPTER ONE.

MR. JOHN DEMPSTER.

"What would I do, sir? Why, if I were as poor as you say you are, and couldn't get on here, I'd go abroad."

"But where, sir? where to?"

"Anywhere... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Teen/Young adult

eBook links
Wikipedia – George Manville Fenn
Wikipedia – To The West

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