On the Banks of the Amazon

Volcanoes and earthquakes form part of childhood in Quito for the narrator of William Henry Giles Kingston's adventure novel. His memories begin with a courtyard home, distant mountain peaks and a merchant father's business in Quito and Guayaquil. Family life also involves difficult choices about schooling and religious belief, with England offering an education that his parents want for their children. The opening gives these household concerns as much attention as the dramatic landscape.

Along the Amazon, the story turns to the practical problems of travel and a search for the narrator's parents. After helping to protect families during an attack, the travellers receive a canoe from Maono to explore the neighbouring shores. Warnings about jaguars, snakes and darkness influence their plans. Written for younger readers, the novel brings together natural history, river adventure and family uncertainty. Its scenes of finding shelter and accepting help give readers concrete details of how the travellers manage danger.