Ballantyne and Henty: The Gentlemen Adventurers of the World of Boys’ Literature

Our great-great grandfathers on both sides of the Atlantic thrilled to tales of adventure and courage written by R.M. Ballantyne and G.A. Henty. In the last century those books were shelved and nearly forgotten. But now, in 2008, they are being promoted anew by a group of young men whose mission is to advance the kingdom of God, advocate godly principles, and bring back manliness.

R.M Ballantyne and G.A Henty had two great qualities in common. First, both were gentlemen adventurers who experienced great world-changing events during the Victorian period. Second, both were principled writers who understood that written stories and lessons can influence the future of a nation.

The boys of that generation sought adventure, and reading was one of the few ways they could experience great events. Some would grow up to be scientists, writers, soldiers, nobles, and explorers, and could profit from learning from the past. Understanding this, Henty and Ballantyne wrote engrossing narratives filled with information about the world, and which incorporated principles of manliness such as honor, courage, bravery and the protection of women and children.

These principles were communicated in such a lively manner that both Henty and Ballantyne became popular and well loved.

Today, boys need to read these stories of courage and manliness. Why? Because the standards of manliness have fallen into the abyss. Our generation would do well to observe the manly principles and virtues of yesteryear, and who better to inspire us with these lessons than these writers who lived in a culture of virtue and practiced these very characteristics in real-life adventures of their own?

After reading my first Henty and Ballantyne books, I was shown new examples of manliness as well as taught new historical lessons. I was given helpful insights into the lives of people that lived during great historical events. I saw what manly friendships look like. I gained a better understanding of military tactics and weapons. Perhaps most importantly, I acquired a better sense what people have sacrificed to give us freedom and a Godly heritage.

I recommend these books to all young men aspiring to be disciple makers, historians, writers and adventurers advancing the kingdom of God.