Recent Question: What Is a Good Age to Start Reading Henty or Ballantyne?

Dear Joshua,

I have a brother who will be 10 in December. I was wondering if Henty or Ballantyne books would be appropriate for him, and thought you'd probably be the perfect one to ask, as you know so much about these books. Would these make a good gift for his birthday or Christmas this year, or are they more appropriate for older boys? What is the age range that these were written primarily for? Also, once my brother reaches the age that is appropriate for these books(if he's not already there), which Henty book and which Ballantyne book would you recommend that he start with? -R. S.

I started reading Henty when I was 9 and Ballantyne about a year later. I think that age 9 is probably the best age to start reading both Ballantyne and Henty. I know a number of young men who started reading Henty when they were 7 or 8 and others when they were 11 or 12. Of course it is important to remember that every young man is different, and some have a harder time with older styles of writing then others. Usually I recommend Ballantyne as the first series to start. Henty tends to have an older style of writing which some people have a hard time reading. On the other hand, I find it very enjoyable to read his classic style. I think Ballantyne aimed his books at a slightly younger audience, and so is slightly easier to read.

As to your second question, the book which gives the best overview of Ballantyne's different styles is, I think, The Coral Islands. It is always a fabulous introduction to Ballantyne. Henty has so many amazing stories it is hard to chose. In Freedoms Cause is my personal favorite. Reading the stories of Wallace and Bruce has always inspired me.

Thank you for your question. -Joshua Titus