Shipwrecked near an island, Robinson Crusoe is on the knife-edge of death. He nearly drowns swimming to shore, struggles ot salvage supplies, builds a fortress, grows food, notches the passage of days on a piece of wood, and hews a boat using crude tools. Not knowing if he would ever return home and realizing that his life had changed forever, he finds peace and happiness in unexpected ways.

The story is unforgettable. I felt like I was on the island with Crusoe, struggling to survive. It made me wonder if I could do what he did. Could I grow food and improvise to stay alive?

The book has sold millions of copies and has inspired other famous stories, such as The Swiss Family Robinson, and movies like Cast Away.

The story is enjoyable to read and is filled with wisdom, revealing the importance of parental counsel, diligence, contentment, and gratitude. One of the most potent scenes, something I will never forget, is the scene of Crusoe nearly drowning, trying to swim ashore. Another is his epic effort to build a fortified house. His agony and diligence are things I won’t forget.

Crusoe’s difficulties transform him forever.

I recommend buying a book version with the N. C. Wyeth illustrations.

What did you like most about this story?