Travellers' Stories   By: Eliza Lee Cabot Follen (1787-1860)

Travellers' Stories by Eliza Lee Cabot Follen is an enchanting collection of short tales from various corners of the world. Follen beautifully weaves together a diverse array of stories that transport readers to different cultures and lands, ultimately delivering a captivating reading experience.

The book takes readers on a journey through a myriad of settings, starting from the rugged mountains of Switzerland to the bustling streets of India, and even the mystical forests of Japan. Each story presents a unique and vivid portrayal of the locales, providing readers with a glimpse into their customs, traditions, and ways of life.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is Follen's impeccable storytelling ability. Her prose is fluid and engaging, capturing the essence of each location and making it come alive on the page. Whether she is describing the vibrant colors of the Indian marketplace or the serene beauty of a Japanese tea garden, Follen's descriptive prowess effortlessly draws readers into the heart of each tale.

Moreover, Follen's dedication to authenticity shines through in her portrayal of characters. Each protagonist, hailing from different cultures, comes to life with such depth and complexity that it becomes easy to empathize with their struggles, aspirations, and triumphs. This diversity of characters allows readers to confront their own biases and prejudices, making the book not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.

Furthermore, Follen's stories offer valuable insights into the human condition. Through various trials and tribulations, the characters undergo personal growth, teaching readers important lessons about resilience, empathy, and understanding. These universal themes, coupled with the book's global perspective, make it a rewarding read for readers of all ages.

However, there are some aspects of the book that may hinder the overall reading experience. The pacing of certain stories feels rushed, occasionally leaving readers craving more details or depth. Additionally, the book would have benefited from a clearer organization, as transitioning between stories can sometimes feel abrupt and disjointed.

Despite these minor shortcomings, Travellers' Stories by Eliza Lee Cabot Follen remains a delightful and captivating literary journey. Follen's ability to transport readers to different lands with her evocative storytelling makes this book a must-read for those seeking an escape from the ordinary. From start to finish, these tales will leave readers yearning for new adventures and eager to explore the world beyond their bookshelves.

First Page:

On the first of August I set sail in the steamer Caledonia for England. At four o'clock in the afternoon, we were out of sight of land; one by one, we had taken leave of every object which could be seen from the departing vessel; and now nothing was visible to us but the sky, the ocean meeting it in its wide, unbroken circle the sun gradually sinking in the west, and our small but only house, the ship. How strange, how sublime the scene was! so lonely, so magnificent, so solemn! At last the sun set, gilding the clouds, and looking, to my tearful eyes, as if that too said farewell! Then the moon appeared; and the long, indefinite line of light from where her rays first touched the waters to our ship, and the dancing of the waves as they crossed it, catching the light as they passed, were so beautiful that I was unwilling to leave the deck when the hour for rest arrived... Continue reading book >>