The Voyages of the Ranger and Crusader

A Christmas gathering brings the Shafto and Dicey families together before their young people set out to sea. Willy Dicey joins Harry Shafto aboard the Ranger, a government troopship, while Charles Dicey and his sisters Emily and May arrange passage on the Crusader to settle in New Zealand. Kingston's adventure novel for young readers moves from warm family celebrations and difficult farewells to the crowded routines of a ship carrying soldiers, officers and their families.

Willy learns ropes, knots and steering amid the teasing of other young sailors. Later, the focus shifts to boats crossing the ocean with dwindling water and fuel, as Harry weighs the needs of the people in his care. Mrs Rumbelow urges patience and generosity, while young Broke shares his precious water with baby Bessy. Readers interested in seafaring fiction will find practical details of life afloat alongside a story about responsibility, courage and care for others under pressure.