Recent Comment

April 09, 2010

It's been awhile since we've posted any comments or questions from BTB readers, so I thought I would share one with you. Here's one from the mother of future Ballantyne-reading boys.

Thank you!

My oldest son is only 2 years old, but I so appreciate what you're doing in bringing awareness to such great books. As a former teacher, parents of boys often asked me for book recommendations. I only wish I'd known about authors like Henty and Ballantyne. I'm looking forward to introducing them to my boys in a few years! Blessings on all of you involved with this site!

Mrs. J.

All I can say is that it's an honor and a privilege to write about the lives of men such as Ballantyne and Henty, and I only wish I could have known them when they were alive. It's great to know that a new generation of boys are being raised with the godly books and principles of these two great authors! And, speaking of Ballantyne books, don't forget to vote on the below poll before 5:00 PM, April 12!

Tueri a vulnere

John

Posted by John Horn at 10:00 AM | Permalink

Recent Comment

October 26, 2009

Every week we receive many great questions and comments from readers of this blog. Here is just one of these, coming from an excited Ballantyne reader.

I just finished the book Fighting the Flames. This book displays true heroism, true courage, and true godliness. It is the fourth Ballantyne book I have read, and I found it competing for first as one of my favorites. I would recommend this book to anyone! Jayne

Jayne, I'm very glad that you enjoy Ballantyne's books. I would agree that Fighting the Flames is a great book, and I hope you have the opportunity to read many more! Thanks for your comment! -John

If you have something particular you are interested in learning more about, please contact us, we'd love to hear from you!

Posted by John Horn at 07:23 PM | Permalink

A Couple of Recent Comments

August 06, 2009

Post Haste and the Lonely Island

I just got through reading Post Haste and The Lonely Island. They have been my favorite books so far by Ballantyne. In the Lonely Island, I was intrigued with the exciting plot of the mutineers. I was amazed at how the Word of God was used to change their hearts! The childlike faith of the natives and the mutineers children made me realize how powerful God's Word is in changing the hearts of man. They didn't need fancy sermons our teaching to believe in the promises of God!

I loved reading the extensive details of the telegraph and post service in Post Haste. It was fascinating all the huge volumes of mail that were circulated in Great Britain even then! That is something I really enjoy about Ballantyne books, the research and deep study that he takes you in each book.

Thanks for reprinting these great books, and I look forward seeing more soon! -Melinda

Melinda, I really do like the way Ballantyne wrote The Lonely Island. He did a very good job sticking to the actual fact and history of what happened on Pitcairn Island while spinning a great tale. And it is an amazing witness -- what happened with the people who survived. Thanks for your comment.

More Vision Forum Ballantyne Books

Hi, I was wondering if they can publish more of his books, in the Vision Forum style. I already have the twenty books that they have published, and I love them! I would really appreciate it. Thank you. -Benjamin

Benjamin, Thanks for your request. I am right with you! Currently I am pushing to have another set printed. But, right now, nothing is for sure about new titles being published. I will pass your note on to the publishing team. -Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:08 PM | Permalink

Ralph Rover or Robert Ballantyne?

August 02, 2009

I was wondering if you could clarify a question for me. In The Coral Island in the Introduction it says:

"I was a boy when I went through the wonderful adventures herein set down. With the memory of my boyish feelings strong upon me, I present my book specially to boys, in earnest hope that they may derive valuable information, much pleasure, great profit, and unbounded amusement form its pages, etc."

And then he signed it Ralph Rover. In Chapter 26 when Bloody Bill and Ralf saw the natives launch a canoe over the living bodies of their victims it says:

"Oh reader, this is no fiction! I would not for the sake of thrilling you with horror, invent so terrible a scene. It was witnessed."

Did Ballantyne really go through those adventures? Or did he just wrote exciting fiction? Do you know if he did or didn't? Thanks. - Lydia Mae

Thanks Lydia, I see your question. Well, the honest answer is yes and no. You see, RMB based his story The Coral Island off of the narratives of his friends who had been to the South Pacific. He never did get a chance to visit the islands himself, to my knowledge.

First, RMB wrote under the pen name "Ralph Rover" for his two books Coral Island and Gorilla Hunters. Unfortunately, there never was a real Ralph Rover, he was just a character loosely based off of RMB and some of his friends.

Second, all the facts for Coral Island were based off of real events he had read about, or adventures which had happened to close friends and relatives. So they were all true events, it's just that he didn't experience them himself, yet, he knew people who had.

In answer to your question: It was a real event which he incorporated into his fiction. But, he never witnessed it himself. I hope that answers your question. -JT

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:28 PM | Permalink

Wallace and Wallace

May 13, 2009

It seems to me that Ballantyne made the heroe of the story, young Will Wallace very similar to the real Will Wallace of Scotland.

Ballantyne's hero is well over six feet, has tremendous strength, bears the same name as the Scotch leader, and in the beginning of the story, is a trooper in the king's service.

Unlike the real Wallace, who was executed in his mid-twenties, Ballantyne's heroe lives to a "ripe old age" and has plenty of children and grand children.

In G. A. Henty's book, In Freedom's Cause, the heroe of the story has a comrade in the real William Wallace.

Both books are great historical novels from two of the best Christian authors of all-time!

Thank you for your comment, Brandon. I always did find the parallels between Wallace and Wallace to be very telling as to RMB's love of history.

I do think that Ballantyne based the hero of his story off of the true William Wallace. It definitely would have been the sort of thing for Ballantyne to do: Tipping his hat to the real "braveheart" while enhancing him with a more reformed worldview and setting him in a more recent age.

I always was glad that Will (in the book) lived to a "ripe old age" as you say. Its a much happier thing to do then having your entrails cut out in the prime of life.

We definitely can benefit from the example of both Wallaces. -JT

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 10:34 AM | Permalink

The Lord Protector

March 30, 2009

Are there any Henty books with the story centering around Oliver Cromwell? I have heard some rather negative things about him and I would like to know if they are true or not. Thanks. -Anne

Well, yes and no. There are no Henty books centered on Cromwell, but in at least one of them, Friends Though Divided, Cromwell makes a short appearance. Though Henty does not portray him as evil or bad, he definitely thought Cromwell was wrong to have gone against the King.

Oliver Cromwell

Opinions differ greatly on Cromwell, but in my estimation he is definitely a true hero. Henty had a slightly different opinion of Cromwell, but that is partly due to the fact that Henty was a Royalist and I am not. But I would still be friends with Henty, even though divided on this subject.

I would say that good men can disagree on the subject of Cromwell, but the negative opinions of him are typically based on false premises. But, Cromwell is most definitely one of my heroes.

VoD, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 06:10 PM | Permalink

Our Frontier

March 04, 2009

Ballantyne has great adventures as the west was opening in Canada and the United States. Do you think that standing for being a man of morals and Christianity is our frontier? We need to be brave and strong to stand up against all that is around us and trying to attack us. We don't fight Indians and starvation, but we fight all kinds of things. I was curious what your thoughts were. -Landon S.

Dear Landon,

Standing to be a man of morals and to be a true Christian is definitely one of our "modern frontiers." You are absolutely right. We don't have to prove ourselves by fighting badmen or bandits the way our ancestors did, because they cleared the path. But we can go on to live the life of adventurous and bold manhood by taking the same spirit and character that the pioneers did and applying it to our modern day. This reminds me of the quote by John Adams,

"I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy. My sons ought to study mathematics and philosophy, geography, natural history, naval architecture, navigation, commerce and agriculture in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture, statuary, tapestry, and porcelain."

Buadh no Bas, Joshua

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 06:44 PM | Permalink

Question of the Week Giveaway is Starting up Again

February 23, 2009

In "contests" you said that you are giving away a free book every week until the end of June. Was that for 2008 or 2009? -J.L.J.

Great question! Originally the one book a week give away had only been until June of '08. But, for the next eight weeks, starting today, I will be doing another "best question/quote/thought of the week receives a free Ballantyne book" give away. Send in your your questions, ideas, thoughts and if I post your comment or question, I will identify you using your first name and an initial for your last name. I hope to hear from you! -Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 03:57 PM | Permalink

"Drawings"

January 26, 2009

Do you know if Ballantyne or Henty drew pictures for any of their books? I love to draw, and I really appreciate it when an author draws pictures for his own books. You get to see what the author imagines his characters and places to look like, rather than someone else's imagination. I have enjoyed the gallery of drawings on your website heaps! Thank-you and God bless, -Julia

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 06:23 PM | Permalink

Did Henty and Ballantyne Know Each Other???

January 20, 2009

Hi! Did R.M Ballantyne and G.A. Henty know each other? I figure they knew about each other since they lived at the same time and they lived in the United Kingdom, but were they friends or something like that? Thank you! -Aslan K.

Dear Aslan,

Thank you for your question. I thought this was a really great question, and so did a little bit of research in a couple of my Henty/Ballantyne biographies to get an accurate answer.

"Late in 1879 Henty had been invited to attend a meeting at the house of W.H.G.Kingston, at which R.M.Ballantyne was also present, to discuss the founding by Griffith & Farran of a new magazine for boys, to be called the Union Jack. It was published on 1 January 1880, with Kingston as Editor. But within six months Kingston was overtaken by an illness from which he did not recover, and Henty was asked to become Editor in his place." Appendix II Pg. 573

I am sure that they met each other multiple times because of their status as "book-stars," but to my knowledge this is the only confirmed meeting.

Thank you for this very good question. You were picked as winner of the week and so will get a free copy of Martin Rattler. If you would send me your mailing address that would be great.

AgB, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 10:38 PM | Permalink

Some Really Great Questions and Comments From the Last Two Weeks [Part II]

January 17, 2009

Part II :

History is an important tool that God has given us. I believe that it is important for us to study history. There is an old proverb that says "they that do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it." I believe that the proverb is true. If we don't study history how do we know about other people's mistakes. WE could make those same mistakes; without even knowing it! History also shows God's providence in warfare. William Potter said "to study history, is to study the providence of God." You may not like history. You may not like to read about it. But you should purpose to read at least, one history book at your pace, however long it might take you; but still read it! My favorite way of learning history is to read historical fiction books by George Henty and Robert Ballantyne. -Jeremiah S.

Jeremiah, I think that you have stated it very clearly. Whether or not we enjoy learning about history it is our duty to learn about it and study because we are to "know the deeds of our fathers." -JT

Will Vision Forum be releasing any additional titles by Ballantyne in 2009? If so, when might we expect them? - Kevin

YES! Lord willing in mid 2009 we will be releasing another series of books. I cant give titles or dates yet, but be prepared! -JT

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 07:25 PM | Permalink

Some Really Great Questions and Comments From the Last Two Weeks [Part I]

January 16, 2009

Over the last two weeks the mail box here at BTB has been filling up. I thought that today I would post a couple of the thoughts and questions that have been coming in, along with my answers. Here is part one:

Hi. I enjoy your website. I have just finished my third Ballantyne, Hunted and Harried. I enjoyed this one exceedingly well. It's so inspiring and thought provoking to read about all the sufferings and sacrifices the Scottish Covenanters had to endure. This book taught me that no matter where or what we are doing we must always be strong in the Lord and ready to face persecution for believing and trusting in our Lord Jesus Christ. It also teaches us that men must always protect their families and even lay down their lives if need be. When Will Wallace fights his fellow trooper (when Jean is about to be insulted) it teaches young men and boys to always protect woman when they are in danger. Hunted and Harried also tells us that we should always be loyal to our friends even if threatened by thumbscrews or boots. I really benefit from the encouragement in manliness, godliness, and good Christian character that Ballantyne brings to his readers. May God bless you and your website, - In Christ, Joseph B.

Thank you Joseph, That is very encouraging. I definitely think that Hunted and Harried is one of Ballantyne's best works because of his strong support of the Bible and the truth. -JT

I have a quick question... Does the Island Queen have a sequel? 'Cuz I loved the book and the characters and I would love to read more about them. -Julie D.

No, as far as I know The Island Queen does not have a sequel. That is too bad because it really is a fun book. As with any book we have to make sure that when reading it we don't just open our brains (we have to look for both flaws and strong points) but it is a great read.

I really enjoyed reading both Hunted and Harried and Blue lights recently. They were my first Ballantyne books to ever read. I was very impressed with the facts filled throughout all both books and yet it also had a very good storyline. I also liked the fact that Blue Lights was written soon after the story happened and was based on so much fact! Hunted and Harried put in to perspective a lot of Scottish history I hadn't been able to sort. I saw that the places and happenings in the Crown and Covenant series intertwine with it. Which books would you recommend next to read? I really enjoy Scottish history, but I like the style of Blue Lights. I have thoroughly enjoyed my Ballantyne adventure so far, I only wish I had started earlier! Thanks and God bless, - Melinda P.

Melinda, If you liked Blue Lights I would recommend you read Post haste or even The Pioneers. Two very different books, but each of them follow his "based-on-fact" style of writing. Hunted and Harried is unique because he took the trials of the Covenanters and turned it into a fairly well written story. As far as I know this may be his only book like this. A.G.B. -JT

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 01:30 PM | Permalink

Winner of The Week: Comment on Post Haste

December 23, 2008

Title page

I just recently finished the book Post Haste, and I like it almost as much as the Coral Island. I loved the way Ballantyne was able to show us in depth, the lives of several different people that were all tied together in one way or another. The message of the story was fantastic! It taught that no matter how sinful we become, God can forgive us, and so can our dearest friends who sincerly want the best for us. It also told of the power of influence. Mr. Aspel was influenced badly when he came into company with Mr. Bones, and Phil learned that he needed to be a good example for his younger companion, Pax, who looked up to him greatly. Along with a vivid depiction of the postal service in the 1800's, it was a great example of loyalty, friendship,forgiveness, and redemption. -Mariah B.

Mariah, Post Haste is definitely a good one. I think your comment was very insightful. It is important that when we read books, no matter what we're reading, we need to put it through the grid of "what lessons can I learn from this." I think that you found the lessons and explained the main one very well. -Joshua Titus

(P.S. As winner of the week Mariah will receive a free copy of Ungava. -JT)

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 06:05 PM | Permalink

What Does "Alba Gu Bra" Mean?

December 23, 2008

I am enjoying your website very much; my daughter discovered it while hunting for more information regarding her favorite author, R. M. Ballantyne. Lately I've noticed that you sign off with the words Alba Gu Bra. Could you enlighten us as to the meaning of it? Very curiously yours, Mrs. B.

Scotland Forever!

Mrs. B.,
As I am sure you have noticed, this website (BTB) has a slightly Scottish leaning. That's because it is dedicated to one particular Scot, R.M. Ballantyne. "Alba Gu Bra!" was the Scottish battle cry "Scotland Forever!" which the Scots would yell as they went in to battle. (In fact, you can hear them yell it in one seen of the movie Braveheart). I use it in honor of my two favorite Scots: R. M. Ballantyne and William Wallace. - JT

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 04:44 PM | Permalink

History of the Postage Stamp

December 09, 2008

Dear Sir, Seeing that Ballantyne wrote a book called "Post Haste", which I unfortunately have not had the opportunity of reading, I thought you might be interested in a little information on the world's first postage stamp.

On May 6, 1840, Great Britain issued the first Penny Blacks, which were one penny stamps of a black color. On the stamp is a portrait of Queen Victoria, and since then it has been tradition for Great Britain not to print the name of their country on the stamp, but to put a small picture of the Queen on the top right of the stamp. There were several million Penny Blacks printed, and though they are worth quite a bit, they are not considered rare. Unused Penny Blacks are worth $4,500, used, $270. For a period of time after they were issued, people would adorn vases, fans and other items with them. The Penny Black had gum on the back, and was not perforated. Perforations were developed sometime later, presumably to avoid having to cut sheets of stamps. Stamps prior to the Penny Black were not the postage stamps we know nowadays, but were similiar to rubber stamps, because they were merely ink stamped onto the letter. The Penny Black was followed by the Two Penny Blue and the Penny Red.

I hope you have found this of interest. -K.S.

Thank you very much for your interesting history of the postage stamp. I definitely found this of interest.

AGB, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 10:31 PM | Permalink

Winner of the Week: Ballantyne and Moral Lessons

December 06, 2008

Fighting The Flames

In the book Fighting The Flames there is an interesting character by the name of Ned Hooper. At the beginning of the book Ned was a respected clerk and a good one, but he had a problem. He was overly fond of strong drink. Later on in the book, he becomes destitute and can not find any work. It was not until he became so poor that he could not afford any strong drink that he learns he can go without it. Ballantyne is not the only author that warns of the dangers of strong drink. George Henty also writes against strong drink. These two men are my top authors because of their many lessons in their books. -Jeremiah S.

Jeremiah will receive a free copy of The Pioneers as winner of the week. -JT

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 05:10 PM | Permalink

Some Recent Q's And A's

November 24, 2008

Dear Joshua, I have observed that most of Ballantyne's stories are in the West and not in the East. (China, Australia, Middle East, Spain, and ect...) Do you know why that is? Thanks -Dakota

Dear Dakota,

Thank you for this insightful question. After writing his first couple of books, Ballantyne developed an important rule for himself: He would not write a book unless he had A) visited the location of the story, B) knew someone very close who had visited said location, or C) read a book which covered the location in depth. These points helped him avoid glaring mistakes in his books. I don't believe that Ballantyne ever had the opportunity to visit Asia, and thus apparently did not write any books about it. (It is interesting to note that he actually died while visiting Rome. I can only imagine what great books he would have written about that location had he lived longer.) He did include Asian characters in a couple of his stories, but it appears that he tried to "play it safe" and kept it to characters instead of a whole book. Thank you for your question. -Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:27 PM | Permalink

November 24, 2008

What do you recommend as the entry level age for boys reading the Henty books? My oldest grandson is 10. Would Beric the Briton be appropriate for his age? Thank you, Mrs. T

Dear Mrs. Taylor,

I definitely think that a ten year old would enjoy Henty. (I started when I was nine.) The language is a little bit harder to comprehend at first than Ballantyne. But I definitely think that a ten year old could understand Henty. Out on the Pampas is a little bit easier to understand than Beric the Briton, so I would probably start a ten year-old off with Out on the Pampas.

AGB, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:25 PM | Permalink

November 24, 2008

Hi, Thanks for your website. I heard about you on Prime Time America. I am wondering what books of both Henty and Ballantyne you would recommend if we were only going to read a few of each. Can you put what your favorites are on your website or what ones you think are best to read in what order? Thanks, Mrs C. (Mother of five boys.)

Dear Mrs. C.,

Wow, that is a tough question. But, if I could only pick three Ballantyne books and three Henty books, I would probably pick the following:

BALLANTYNE:
The Coral Island
The Wild Man of the West
The Young Fur Traders.

HENTY:
In Freedom's Cause
Saint Bartholomew's Eve
The Cat of Bubastes (This probably ties with Out on the Pampas.)

These would probably be my top six. But every time I read or re-read a book by either author, I tend to add it to the "top favorite" list. So, this list changes over time.

Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:21 PM | Permalink

November 24, 2008

My family and I have read a few of G.A.Henty's books together. However, I am a visual person and get more out of a book when I can read it for myself. That way I can stop and mull things over in my head. Because of this, I have been thinking about reading the Henty books on my own. Do you have any suggestions of what would be best to start out with? Which ones are some of your family favorites Blessings, Jessica

Well, it depends on whether you are looking for an exciting story, captivating history, or both. But with Henty, that isn't too hard of a mix to find.

In Freedoms Cause

One of my all time favorite Henty books is In Freedoms Cause. I really enjoyed it when I first read it because I had never read a captivating story that had so much history packed into it before. William Wallace has always been one of my heroes, and to read Henty give such a vivid account of his fight for freedom was inspiring. The first half of the book is about Wallace, his life and his ultimate ruin and execution. The second half is about Robert Bruce picking up the mantle of leadership and not backing down from Longshanks (King Edward.)

Out on the Pampas

If you are looking for one of his more character based stories, I would recommend Out on The Pampas. This is about a family, the Hardys, who decides to go out to the South American plains and start a new life. The story is fascinating, but contains less history than some of his other books. If you want to see a couple of notes about the book, you can read an article here.

As far as family favorites, these are two of my top five. A few others would include The Cat of Bubastes, Bonny Prince Charlie, In Greek Waters, and Under Drakes Flag. Let me know what you pick!

AGB, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:19 PM | Permalink

A Complete list of Ballantyne and Henty Titles

November 19, 2008

Hi, I was wondering if you have a list of Henty and Ballantyne's books in the order they wrote them. I think it would be interesting to read them in the order that they wrote them! I would love to see how their writing developed as they wrote. We don't have all of the Ballantyne's, but I have read over forty Henty's in just under a year and LOVE them! I love historical fiction and write it too (seriously)! Thanks, Caitria

Dear Caitria, That is great that you have read forty of Henty's books! Yes, it is a lot more fun to read books in the order that they were written because then you can see how an author's view of the world grows and/or changes over time. To view a complete list of Ballantyne's and Henty's books, in order of the years they were written, you can click on the above links. - AGB, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 08:56 AM | Permalink

Winner of the Weekly Book Give Away

November 11, 2008

For this week's winner I picked the below email.

Hello, I am fifteen, and I've been reading Henty books to my brothers over breakfast for years now, with some other historical fiction thrown in there too (No Ballantyne yet, though). Now the boys are now getting a little bit restless with the similarities of the main characters in the books. We almost always know exactly what the character is going to be like. (Don't get me wrong; I LOVE Henty! And I am by no means complaining about this.) I was wondering, first of all, what are some differences between Henty and Ballantyne, and secondly, how do Ballantyne's books differ from each other in terms of characters and plot? God bless, Hannah

Dear Hannah, I completely understand what you mean about Henty. The boys of England so loved Henty's books that it didn't matter to them if the book followed a rather commonly used story line and character formula. Honestly, you can't really blame Henty for this problem; he wrote 120 books. I understand how anyone would start repeating himself writing that many! (Comment: This was a problem that many 19th century authors suffered from.)

Post Haste

Note: Hannah will be getting a copy of Post Haste for her question.

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:03 PM | Permalink

Recent Comments

November 11, 2008

Well, I thought I would put up some recent comments and questions that I have received over the last couple of weeks. These are some of my favorites, and I hope to put up more soon.

What advice would you give to a young man desiring to read quality literature such as that by Ballantyne and Henty, but struggles with the complex language and vocabulary?

To answer in short, it is my personal opinion that if a person can read the Bible, they can read R.M. Ballantyne and G.A. Henty. In fact, after a few books, most people become very comfortable with the literary style and vocabulary of both authors. At first, it may be a bit of a stretching experience, but this is a wonderful way to build your vocabulary. I recommend having a dictionary nearby to look up words with which you are unfamiliar. Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

Do you have the complete set of the Ballantyne books? Is it possible that there are other books written about other travels and adventures? What a clever way to tell about history through adventure and discovery. I must get a book and begin my adventure! Talley ho! J.

Dear J, Well, it depends on what your definition of "complete set" is. R.M. Ballantyne wrote about ninety books. No, I do not have all of them. But I am in the process of trying to collect them all. So far I have not succeeded.

You are right. Adventure novels are a great way to get people interested in both history and geography. Thank you for your question. Alba Gu Bra, Joshua

Hello my name is Florence and I was wondering if you knew of an R. M. Ballantyne autobiography. My Dad wanted it for Christmas but I can't find any on the internet. Best Wishes, Florence

Ballantyne The Brave

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 07:39 PM | Permalink

"I Love the Coral Island"

October 24, 2008

Even though I am a girl, I LOVE the Coral Island, and the Gorilla Hunters. I have read both books over and over again. My mom loves his [Ballantyne's] books, too. She's hunted continually for great books for boys to read, and with Ballantyne, she says she hit the jackpot. Thankfully, she lets me read them, too! - Jayne P.

Thats great Jayne! Its always great to hear from people who enjoy Ballantyne. - Joshua

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 09:44 PM | Permalink

Christian Courage

October 22, 2008

I have recently found this site and also started learning of Christian authors. I am so impressed with how many there are to chose from. What a great discovery! As the subject line states it is time for "Christian Courage." I recently heard this from a Christian leader and feel like it is time for youth everywhere to gather Christian Courage. And reading these fine Christian influenced authors can give the youth (and adults) that courage to be a Christian in todays world. Keep the faith and keep the courage to do the right. -Chris

Thanks, Chris, for your encouragement. - Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 01:59 PM | Permalink

A Couple of Comments From This Week.

October 20, 2008

A couple of comments from this week.

I had a question concerning Ballantyne's books. I have never read them, yet was wondering this - what time period are his books set in? Would they be in the 1800's, or an earlier time? Thank you! -G.W.

Thank you for your question. Ballantyne wrote books set in many different times. A lot of his books take place in the mid nineteenth century. But there are some books that take place in other times. The Norsemen in the West is one book that tells about Leif Ericsson who first discovered the North America Continent in the tenth century. So, Ballantyne wrote about many different time periods and locations. -Joshua Titus

If you could only suggest one Ballantyne book to read, which one would you pick and why? Thanks, Jeremy

If I could only read one Ballantyne my whole life I dont know which one I would pick. But if the question is what would be my first Ballantyne to read, I would say that it probably would be The Coral Island. This is because I think it has one of the best plots. - Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 08:23 PM | Permalink

One Book-a-Week Give Away

October 14, 2008

The Ballantyne Series

-Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 01:30 PM | Permalink

Comments in Answer to Henty Article

October 05, 2008

I just finish reading Through the Fray by Henty, and I was very blessed by it. What you wrote in your recent blog was just what I was thinking after I read Through the Fray. Ned (the main character), had less physical battles, but rather spiritual battles. He fought to conquer his temper, and to honor his parents. He fought not to completely despair when he was falsely accused and treated brutally. He had to have faith that the Lord would work all things together for good. Henty also showed the value of true friends. Ned's true friends stuck to him, believed in him, and were ready to sacrifice their time, energy, and even their life for him. When all others failed and treated him wrongly, they were there for him. If his friends had not encouraged him and cheered him on, he probably would not have made it "through the fray". This really made me think of what a true friend is and their value. It has inspired me to try to be a truer friend to my siblings and my other friends. Also, to make friendships that really do count, friendships that will weather any storms. In this book both young men and young women can learn heaps of lessons. I was both very blessed and inspired by reading it. -Julia B.

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 08:22 PM | Permalink

October 04, 2008

I also enjoy reading Henty's books because of the humanity of the characters. I have read other books before where the hero didn't really grow in character much throughout the book. Henty gives readers a chance to see how everyone can grow in character and not have to be perfect to get through life. -J.M.

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 04:41 PM | Permalink

Question About Coming Ballantyne Volumes

September 04, 2008

Joshua, With all of the new titles that you mention and the blog [posts] about of R.M. Ballantyne, are there going to be any new publications through Vision Forum of Ballantyne? (Or a new set of books)?

Yes, Vision Forum absolutely intends to publish more Ballantyne books. Lord willing, in mid 2009, we will be releasing another ten volumes. I hope that we will continue to publish more of his books in the future. If you (or anyone else) have any comments as to which titles you would like to see in print, please email me with your comments and ideas.

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 01:01 PM | Permalink

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

September 01, 2008

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

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:19 AM | Permalink

Question About Young Men's literature

August 23, 2008

Joshua, We have a seven year old son. His reading level is good (slightly advanced). Do you have a book list of recommended reading for this age? It is so difficult to find good books for him. It isn't nearly as difficult for my daughters. Any recommendations or links are greatly appreciated. I am not sure that he is ready for the Henty or Ballantyne books yet. I appreciate your testimony, your work, and the quality of your web page. I will definitely bookmark it for when he is old enough to appreciate it fully. Thanks from a mom, Mrs. G.

Dear Mrs. G., Thank you for your question. I would recommend that your son start with the Lamplighter books. This series is aimed at a slightly younger audience than Henty or Ballantyne. Lamplighter was one of the first series I ever read. You can find them here at Vision Forum. These books are very good for ages 7 and up. I hope this answers your question. Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 05:07 PM | Permalink

Comment on The Botkin Sisters Article

August 22, 2008

Dear Joshua,

I just wanted to thank you so much for the article by the Botkin ladies. Thank you for asking them to write it and for then posting it on your site. The question the article addressed was one that had been on my mind a lot lately. I was wondering if there was a danger of possibly deminishing one's distinct femininity if a young lady read boy's adventure books. So, thank you so much for setting my mind at ease in this area. The dear Botkin ladies are truly my mentors and role models in the faith, and so reading their article was most helpful and enlightening.

-Miss Rebekah

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 07:12 PM | Permalink

Comment on Old Books

August 21, 2008

Joshua, Those old books look great! I wish I had that many, but I had to ask: Do you have any Sir Walter Scott? If not, I highly recommend reading him if you haven't already. He is not necessarily an easy read like Henty or Ballantyne, but a fine and exceptional author all the same.

I myself came across the entire Waverly novels by Scott. I believe them to be originals from the 1830's because of the historical research I have done on Scott and his writings, but I have Henty and Ballantyne to finish first. Keep up the good work! I really enjoy and appreciate it! In Christ, Matt.

Dear Matt, Yes, I do collect Scott. In fact, last year I came across a collection of about a dozen of his books, from around 1850, bound in leather, for just under $50. It was an amazing find. Actually, what first inspired me to read Scott was his book Ivanhoe which I found a couple years ago and really enjoyed. I think that he is definitely one of the greatest authors of the 19th century.
-Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 07:02 PM | Permalink

Comment on The Article "Why Girls Should Read Boys' Adventure Literature"

August 16, 2008

Greetings! I have never been to your site before - I [found a] link to it from Nathaniel Darnell's blog. It was such a joy to see this subject posted! My oldest daughter informed me today that she has about 11 more Hentys to finish before she has read all 90+ volumes. She absolutely loves them! I have watched her grow to appreciate her father and 3 brothers more as she has read these books. (She also was the only one who knew what a toledo blade was from a history question during homeschool!) My oldest son is plowing through Ballantyne - I think he has read eight of them or more. Today he couldn't keep them to himself anymore and was reading a volume aloud to two of his sisters. The article you posted from the Botkin sisters was so encouraging as to why girls SHOULD read these stories. Thank you and I hope this is encouraging to you in some way. May the Lord bless you! -Mrs. C.

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 06:25 PM | Permalink

Question About Gutenberg Press

July 29, 2008

You have a link to Gutenberg on your website. I was thinking about downloading the free text version they have of Coral Island for my son so that he can get an idea of what Ballantyne's books are like. However, I don't want to do so if it is a revised/modified version which has the Christian content cut out. Do you know if the text version on Gutenberg is the original unaltered text?

Dear Sir, Thankfully Gutenburg believes it is their responsibility to give out the original unaltered text of the books. Except for some possible editing flaw (as in all books) they do strictly stick to the original book. I believe that they followed there normal policy and did not edit any of the Christian content out. I would still get the copy that Vision Forum has printed, but, Gutenburg is one of my favorite online sources for books. -Joshua Titus

Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 06:40 PM | Permalink

When Did Ballantyne Become A Christian ?

July 24, 2008

Here are some things I am curious to know about Ballantyne. When and how did he become a Christian? Also, did he have personal experience with all the settings he wrote [about], or did he rely on others accounts? My family has an old book that is not [published] by Vision Forum, called "Twice Bought," written by R.M. Ballantyne. Did he really write a book named that, and how many books did he write total? -Thank you, Stephen

Stephen, please allow me to answer in Mr. Ballantyne's own words:

"During all the six years that I spent in Rupert's Land I was "without God." He was around me and within me, guarding me, bestowing upon me the physical and mental health by which alone I could fully enjoy a life in the wilderness, and furnishing me with much of the material that was to serve as my stock-in-trade during my subsequent career; yet--I confess it with shame--I did not recognize or think of, or care for, Him. It was not until after I had returned home that He opened my eyes to see myself a lost soul, and Jesus Christ, "God with us", an all-sufficient Redeemer, able and willing to save me from sin, as He is to save all sinners, even the chief."

Alexander "Sandy" Ballantyne, Robert's Father

And, yes, Mr. Ballantyne did write Twice Bought. Also, Ballantyne wrote a total of 80 books, and, for almost all of them, he visited the spot he was writing about.
-Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 10:30 PM | Permalink

A Couple of Recent Emails

July 17, 2008

Lately I have received some very good emails. I am very thankful for all the encouragement and comments that came in during the Scotland Tour. A couple of my favorite emails from the last two weeks are here.

Joshua, Thank you for such an informative site. Our family discovered The Coral Island while on a trip to New Zealand some years back but I regret to say we haven't read near the volume of Ballantyne books as he had written.

I was wondering if you have ever read Captain Marryat's book Children of the New Forest ? Set in England during the Reformation, it is an adventure story of children left parentless, of brothers defending sisters, of valor and honor. We have loved it so much, I have bought each child their own copy. I'd have to say it's in my top five. -Blessings, Mrs. Fletcher

Dear Mrs. Fletcher, Yes, I have read the book Children of The New Forest. His writing style is really fabulous. I do think that the noble way the sisters are guarded by their brothers is worthy of praise. The author also sets a very good example of sibling attitude towards each other for the reader. Sadly, it is an anti-reformation story. The children (the main characters) are actually the children of a royalist at the time of Charles I and Cromwell. Unfortunately, I felt that they presented an unfair view of Cromwell and the Parliamentarians to the reader. When reading books like this it is important to understand historical prejudice (good or bad) and to see the wonderful way the hand of the lord can be on an author like Marryat or Henty. -Joshua Titus

Joshua, I have read almost four Ballantyne books, and are enjoying them so much, especially because the stories are, like you said, "Explicitly Christian." Your website, is great! And I love to look at your Blog with the pictures from the Scotland faith and freedom tour. This is not a very important question, but was Ballantyne ever in the army? He new a lot about subjects that somewhat relate to the military. -James

James, Thank you for your question. No, Ballantyne was never in the army as far as I know. He did join the Edinburgh Volunteers at one point, but was never part of a standing army. A lot of his information comes from hist vast knowledge of the times in which he lived and the people he knew. -Joshua Titus

Hello J. Titus and Greetings, I wrote to you once before indicating that we would take your advice and purchase the Coral Islands to give Mr. Ballantyne a try. I am please to report that we have done so and my 3 oldest sons and I agree that it is a smashing success. We look forward to finishing this work and moving on to others. Keep strong in the faith and thank you for your guidance! - The Thisse Family

That is tremendous! I hope y'all enjoy the rest of the Ballantyne books as much.

Hello, I have been enjoying looking through your website and think that my brother and I would enjoy reading some of the Ballantyne books, however, is there any particular order that they should be read in? Or is there any particular book that you would suggest to a first time Ballantyne reader? Thank you so much, God bless, Elizabeth

Elizabeth, No, there is not any particular order to read the books in. Mr. Ballantyne has one set of books that go together (The Coral Islands and the Gorilla Hunters, with The Coral Islands coming first.) Other than that you can read the books in any order. -Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 05:01 PM | Permalink

Ballantyne in Japan and Kittens Losing Mittens

May 24, 2008

This week I have had a couple of really interesting emails. I received this email from a gentleman in Japan. It so amazing to hear from people all around the world who are reading or listening to Mr. Ballantyne's books.

Hi J. Titus. I am listening to my first Ballantyne book through the librivox.org website (put on my ipod) as I travel around Tokyo in my ministry as a church-planting missionary. I was intrigued by the way Ballantyne weaved his faith into the story (The Madman and the Pirate), so I looked it up on Wikipedia and was led to your excellent site. Thanks for your work and keep it up! Steve and Kathi W.

I have also received some really fun emails from young men and ladies in many locations.

My mom is reading us Coral Island and I just wanted to send a comment on Peterkin and the black cat. I really enjoyed that part. It's one of my favorites. I really love it when Peterkin says, "I love you, I do! Do you love me?" That's some of the exact words that I say to my 2-year-old black cat named Tex. I asked him if he loved me and he sometimes meowed in reply. That was before I even heard of that book. I tell him I love him almost every day. He understands too, (I think). Grace B.

Dear Grace: Thanks for this very humorous note. You might also find it interesting to know that Ballantyne was also the author of the "Three Little Kittens Who lost Their Mittens." Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 10:24 PM | Permalink

This Week's Winning Comment

May 20, 2008

Special thanks to this week's winning commentator for these helpful thoughts on Ballantyne and the Grace of God:

One thing I've noticed about Ballantyne, is that he writes openly about how wicked men can be without the grace of God. In Hunted and Harried, he writes about the bloody dragoons who tormented and persecuted the true Church in Scotland. In Pirate City he writes about the cruel means of torture the pirates used. It is a helpful reminder to thank God for His grace that He has given us, and that without it, we are no better than the vilest of men. Eph. 2:8-9 "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." Sans Peur, Brittney S.

Brittney will receive a complimentary copy of one of Ballantyne's greatest: The Norseman in the West. Thanks to all of my readers for your questions and comments. I also happily welcome feature articles, and book reviews. Each Monday, a winner will be announced, so please get me your questions and comments by the weekend.

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 09:10 PM | Permalink

First Ballantyne Winner Announced

May 14, 2008

Many thanks to all of you who visited BallantyneTheBrave.com and who sent in so many thoughtful comments and questions. It was a real blessing to correspond with you. Below are a few of the many questions and comments I received:

Dear Joshua: What is most important characteristic that you have learned or have had reinforced by reading Ballantyne’s books? Sincerely, Nathan A.

Thank you Nathan for your question, I believe that one of the most important characteristic's of Ballantyne’s is that we must include Christ in everything we do. That means in what we write, how we live, and the way we treat each other. Ballantyne emphasized this principle through heroic characters in his stories and through his own life. I really like this quote from Ballantyn'es own pen:

“...in all my writings I have always tried — how far successfully I know not — to advance the cause of Truth and Right and to induce my readers to put their trust in the love of God our Saviour, for this life as well as the life to come.”

God bless you.

Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

This writer had questions about whether Ballantyne stories include female characters.

...I am a 14 year old girl from Iowa and I’ve really enjoyed reading the G.A. Henty books that are offered by Vision Forum. My personal favorite is In Freedom’s Cause. But none of his stories have any girl characters in the adventures. Do any of the Ballantyne books have girls ‘in on the action’?

Allison, Thank you for your excellent question. Both Ballantyne and Henty specifically wrote to the boys of their generation. They often set their stories in the context of wars and adventures where men were being challenged to play the role of men. Because of this fact, the stories favor male characters over female characters. But that does not mean that women are excluded from the stories. There are both boys and girls in many of the Ballantyne books. In my view, while these books were written specifically for young men, they are wonderful for the entire family. There are many benefits that women will get reading the stories, including the fact that they will learn to appreciate the type of courageous Christian men who are best suited as husbands and fathers. On a personal note, my own sisters have read G.A. Henty’s books and they are now starting the Ballantyne series as well.

Alba Gu Bra, J Titus

This writer wanted to know if there was truth to the stories of cannibalism in the South Seas.

Hi, I am thirteen years old and I have just finished reading The Coral Island and have begun to read The Gorilla Hunters. I cannot read the books fast enough, they are very exciting! I would like to know if there is any truth to these stories? Did “savages” really eat other people? And prefer eating one color of people over another? Thank you, Nathan O.

Nathan, This is an excellent and interesting question. As to your first question, I must say that presently, The Coral Island is one of my Ballantyne favorites, (though The Gorilla Hunters is a close second).

Concerning cannibalism: It is true, sadly, that cannibalism was as prevalent among the pagan nations of the South Seas. The Gospel coming to the islands through Christian missionaries (many of whom came from Ballantyne’s own Scotland) helped to bring an end to this barbaric practice.

As to your question concerning whether or not the savages preferred one skin color (melanin count) over another, I am not sure. Ballantyne seemed to think so. This much is true, Ballantyne always tried to be very accurate. It is also true that many of the Pacific Islanders had strange superstitious beliefs.

Thank you so much for your question.

Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

And this writer asked about the maxim on our banner.

Could you please explain your closing, “Alba Gu Bra”? I did a quick search on the internet, but couldn't find a translation. Is it Gaelic? Thank you for taking the time to respond. Your web-site is a great idea! May God bless your endeavors, Joseph, a fellow Henty reader

Thank you for your question Joseph, “Alba Gu Bra” was the cry “Scotland forever” that was yelled by the Scots during battle.

Ballantyne was a patriotic Scot who personified the best of the Scottish traditions of orthodox Christianity and love of his nation. To honor Mr. Ballantyne, and in preparation for my own journey to Scotland, I wanted to adopt this maxim.

God bless you, Alba Gu Bra, Joshua Titus

In the future I will be looking for different types of questions and comments. But today I selected the first winner of my weekly Ballantyne give-away, because the writer asked a very simple, but important question which I believe is on the minds of many readers:

We have Henty. What does Ballantyne give us that Henty does not? Thanks! Hannah H.

Thank you Hannah, What a great question! There are some wonderful similarities between Ballantyne and Henty, but there are two primary differences between the two authors.

The first difference is this: Henty teaches courageous boyhood in the context of history. Henty’s stories are set in the context of real historical events. They are a wonderful way to learn history and manhood. Ballantyne sets manly adventures in the context of diverse geographic locations. Readers of Ballantyne learn to appreciate and understand the mysterious and wonderful world created by the Lord.

The second difference pertains to the way the two men communicate their faith. Both Henty and Ballantyne are professing Christian men who take Christianity very seriously. Henty’s theological roots are Anglican. Ballantyne is a self-conscious Reformed Christian. Henty is less overt about his faith, and the Gospel is more implicit, than explicit in his writings. Ballantyne, on the other hand, is a soul-winner who overtly preaches the Gospel through his stories and characters. His is a bold and courageous orthodox Christianity.

Alba Gu Bra J. Titus

Congratulations Hannah!

In the future, I hope to award books to individuals that not only ask important questions, but who write helpful comments and insights concerning specific Ballantyne books. Keep writing. God bless you.

Posted by Joshua Phillips at 11:15 AM | Permalink