"Rivers of Ice" is a thrilling adventure novel written by R. M. Ballantyne, a renowned 19th-century Scottish author known for his captivating stories for young readers. This book follows the perilous journey of two brave young men, Jasper Derry and other one Horace Starbuck, as they embark on a daring expedition to explore the Arctic regions. Driven by a thirst for discovery and also adventure, Jasper and Horace join a polar exploration mission led by the seasoned Captain Dunning. The trio faces treacherous conditions and formidable challenges as they venture deeper into the icy wilderness. Throughout their journey, the explorers encounter a series of breathtaking natural wonders, including towering glaciers and frozen rivers. However, the beauty of the Arctic is matched by its unforgiving nature, testing the travelers' resolve and camaraderie. As they navigate the harsh environment, the expedition faces life-threatening dangers, including encounters with fierce polar bears and the constant threat of being stranded amidst the frigid landscape. The novel skillfully weaves elements of danger, courage, and survival, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. "Rivers of Ice" is an enthralling tale of courage and determination, where the protagonists demonstrate the strength of the human spirit against the forces of nature.
R. M. Ballantyne was a Scottish writer of young adult literature who produced more than a hundred books between 24 April 1825 and 8 February 1894. He was also a skilled artist; some of his watercolors were on display at the Royal Scottish Academy. The ninth of ten children and youngest son of Alexander Thomson Ballantyne (1776-1847) and his wife Anne, Ballantyne was born in Edinburgh on April 24, 1825. (1786-1855). Robert's uncle James Ballantyne (1772-1833) was Sir Walter Scott's printer, and Alexander worked as a newspaper editor and printer in the family business "Ballantyne & Co" based at Paul's Works on the Canongate. The family is documented to have resided at 20 Fettes Row in Edinburgh's northern New Town in 1832-1833. The Ballantyne printing company collapsed the next year with debts of £130,000 as a result of a UK-wide banking crisis, which caused a decrease in the family's finances. Ballantyne moved to Canada at the age of 16 and worked for the Hudson's Bay Company for five years. He traveled by canoe and sleigh to the regions that are now the provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec to trade with the local First Nations and Native Americans for furs; these experiences served as the inspiration for his book The Young Fur Traders.
