Quick Take

New edition of a classic adventure novel and one of the most startling, highly praised stories in English literature - a brilliant chronicle of two sensitive children's violent voyage from innocence to experience.After a terrible hurricane levels their Jamaican estate, the Bas-Thorntons decide to send their children back to the safety and comfort of England. On the way their ship is set upon by pirates, and the children are accidentally transferred to the pirate vessel. Jonsen, the well-meaning pirate captain, doesn't know how to dispose of his new cargo, while the children adjust with surprising ease to their new life. As this strange company drifts around the Caribbean, events turn more frightening and the pirates find themselves increasingly incriminated by the children's fates. The most shocking betrayal, however, will take place only after the return to civilization.The swift, almost hallucinatory action of Hughes's novel, together with its provocative insight into the psychology of children, made it a best seller when it was first published in 1929 and has since established it as a classic of twentieth-century literature - an unequaled exploration of the nature, and limits, of innocence.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: A High Wind in Jamaica

Introduction

"A High Wind in Jamaica" is a classic adventure novel written by Richard Hughes. Published in 1929, it has since become a highly acclaimed and enduring work of literature. This book tells the story of two sensitive children who embark on a violent voyage from innocence to experience after a hurricane destroys their Jamaican estate. The children find themselves on a pirate ship and navigate the treacherous waters of the Caribbean, facing unexpected challenges and betrayals. The novel explores the nature and limits of innocence, delving into the psychology of children and the complexities of human behavior. With its vivid prose and unpredictable plot, "A High Wind in Jamaica" has captured the hearts and minds of readers worldwide.

About Richard Hughes

Richard Arthur Warren Hughes OBE was a British writer known for his poems, short stories, novels, and plays. Born in 1900, Hughes was a prolific writer who gained recognition for his unique style and ability to craft compelling narratives. His works often explored themes of innocence, morality, and the human condition, making him a respected figure in the literary world. Hughes's writing style was characterized by its poetic language and ability to evoke powerful emotions in readers. He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, solidifying his place as a significant figure in 20th-century literature.

Analysis of Views

Subject Matter: Readers praise the book's subject matter, which features pirates, children, animals, and natural disasters. The combination of these elements creates a captivating and unpredictable story that keeps readers engaged.
Language: Hughes's use of language is highly regarded by readers. His ability to form complex sentences with unconventional words and phrases adds depth and complexity to the narrative. While some find it challenging to understand at times, others appreciate the unique style and find it refreshing.
Narrator: The narrator's humor and subtlety are highlighted by readers. He adds a lighthearted touch to the story while still maintaining a sense of mystery and intrigue. His insights and observations create a sense of intimacy with the characters and their experiences.
Surprises: The book is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on their toes. Readers appreciate the unpredictability of the plot, which adds excitement and keeps them engaged throughout the story.
Psychological Depth: Hughes delves into the psychology of children, exploring their resilience and adaptability in the face of traumatic events. The book offers insights into human nature and the ways in which individuals cope with loss and change.
Light Reading: Despite its darker themes, "A High Wind in Jamaica" is considered light reading by many readers. The book's pacing is leisurely, allowing readers to enjoy the story without feeling overwhelmed by heavy themes or complex plotlines.
Moral Ambiguity: The book does not moralize or provide clear-cut answers to its questions. Instead, it leaves readers with a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty, challenging their preconceived notions about innocence and morality. This ambiguity adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking read.
Comparison to Other Works: Readers often compare "A High Wind in Jamaica" to other classic works such as "Peter Pan," "Heart of Darkness," and "Lord of the Flies." While it shares similarities with these books, it stands out with its unique style and exploration of childhood psychology.
Racist Elements: Some readers point out that the book contains stereotypical portrayals of Black Jamaican characters, particularly in the early chapters. While these elements may be seen as problematic, others argue that they add historical context and highlight the complexities of race relations during that time period.
Engaging Narrative: Overall, readers find "A High Wind in Jamaica" to be an engaging and well-written novel that deserves its place in the literary canon. Its blend of adventure, psychological depth, and unexpected twists makes it a standout work that continues to captivate readers today.

Reasons for Recommendation

Unpredictable Plot: The book's unpredictable plot keeps readers on their toes, making it an exciting read from start to finish. The unexpected twists and turns add excitement and keep readers engaged throughout the story.
Psychological Depth: Hughes's exploration of childhood psychology offers insights into human nature and how individuals cope with loss and change. This depth adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking read that resonates with readers.
Unique Writing Style: Hughes's use of language sets him apart from other writers. His ability to form complex sentences with unconventional words and phrases adds depth and beauty to the storytelling. Readers appreciate his unique style and find it refreshing compared to more conventional writing styles.
Engaging Narrator: The narrator's humor and subtlety add a lighthearted touch to the story while still maintaining a sense of mystery and intrigue. His insights and observations create a sense of intimacy with the characters and their experiences, making the book more relatable and enjoyable for readers.
Moral Ambiguity: The book's exploration of moral ambiguity challenges readers' preconceived notions about innocence and morality. It encourages critical thinking and fosters a deeper understanding of human nature, making it a valuable addition to any literary collection.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Racist Elements: Some readers find stereotypical portrayals of Black Jamaican characters problematic and off-putting. These elements may detract from the overall enjoyment of the book for some readers who value diverse representation in literature.
Limited Morality: Some readers feel that the book lacks a clear moral compass or message, leaving them unsure about what they should take away from the story. This lack of direction may make it difficult for some readers to fully engage with the narrative or appreciate its depths fully.
Challenging Language: Hughes's use of language can be challenging for some readers due to its complexity and unconventional phrasing. While this adds depth to the narrative for others, it may be overwhelming or confusing for those who prefer more straightforward writing styles.

Conclusion

"A High Wind in Jamaica" by Richard Hughes is a classic adventure novel that has captured the hearts and minds of readers worldwide. With its unpredictable plot, psychological depth, unique writing style, engaging narrator, moral ambiguity, and exploration of childhood psychology, this book offers something for everyone who loves literature. While some readers may find stereotypical portrayals or challenging language off-putting, the overall consensus is that "A High Wind in Jamaica" is a must-read for anyone seeking an exciting adventure filled with insights into human nature and the complexities of innocence.