Rivers of Ice

Name: Rivers of Ice
Author: R. M. Ballantyne

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About This Book

A bluff, salt-stained seaman wanders a narrow lane near London Bridge while seeking an elderly woman named Roby. A sharp, precocious street boy adopts a mock-nautical pose to guide him to Grubb’s Court, accepting a small coin and trading banter as they thread past warehouses and dilapidated dwellings. The narrative renders the court in vivid detail—rotting doorways, open tenements, ragged children and nursing mothers—contrasting the visitor’s maritime manner with the neighbourhood’s roughness. The opening scene mixes humor and close social observation to set mood and orient the reader amid cramped, squalid surroundings.

About the Author

R. M. Ballantyne

R. M. Ballantyne was a Scottish author known for his adventure novels, particularly popular among young readers in the 19th century. His works often explore themes of exploration, bravery, and the natural world, reflecting his own experiences as a sailor and traveler. Among his notable titles is "Away in the Wilderness," which showcases his ability to weave thrilling narratives with moral lessons. Ballantyne's storytelling is characterized by vivid descriptions and engaging plots, making him a significant figure in children's literature of his time. His extensive bibliography includes nearly a hundred works, many of which remain influential in the adventure genre.

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