Treasure Island Book Summary

by Robert Louis Stevenson150

TL;DR

Treasure Island is an adventure novel about young Jim Hawkins who finds a treasure map and embarks on a journey to a distant island to find pirate treasure.

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What is Treasure Island about

Treasure Island, written by Robert Louis Stevenson, is a classic adventure tale about a twelve-year-old boy named Jim Hawkins. After discovering a treasure map in the possessions of a deceased guest, Jim and his friends set sail to find the pirate Captain Flint's buried treasure. The story unfolds with Jim encountering several of Flint's former crew members, who are also after the treasure. Themes of greed, adventure, and moral growth underpin this engaging narrative. The book, first published in 1883, has remained a favorite for its thrilling plot and memorable characters.

Treasure Island 6 Key Takeaways

Discovery of the Treasure Map

Jim Hawkins and his mother find a treasure map in the chest of a deceased guest at their inn, sparking the adventure.

Setting Sail for Treasure Island

Jim, Dr. Livesey, and Squire Trelawney organize an expedition to search for the treasure, hiring a ship and crew for the journey.

Mutiny and Conflict

Jim discovers that several crew members, led by the cunning Long John Silver, are plotting a mutiny to take the treasure for themselves.

Jim's Captivity and Escape

Jim is taken hostage by the mutineers but manages to escape, showcasing his bravery and cunning.

The Treasure Hunt

The hunt for the treasure takes various twists and turns, with both sides facing peril and deception.

Resolution and Return Home

Jim and his allies ultimately retrieve the treasure and return home, having survived the treacherous island and the mutineers.

Top Treasure Island Quotes

  • Fifteen men on the Dead Man's Chest – Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum!
  • Seaward ho! Hang the treasure! It's the glory of the sea that has turned my head.

Who should read Treasure Island?

Treasure Island is ideally suited for middle-grade readers and young adults, but its adventurous spirit and timeless themes make it appealing to readers of all ages. Anyone who enjoys tales of adventure, moral growth, and classic literature will find this book compelling and enriching.

About the Author

Robert Louis Stevenson was a Scottish novelist, poet, and travel writer, best known for his adventure novels. Born in 1850, he gained fame for works such as 'Treasure Island,' 'Kidnapped,' and 'Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.' Stevenson's stories have captivated readers for generations with their vivid storytelling and memorable characters. His contributions to literature have cemented his legacy as one of the most celebrated authors of his time.

Treasure Island Best Reviews

  • The New York Times praised Treasure Island as 'a timeless tale of adventure and heroism, capturing the imaginations of readers young and old with its vivid characters and gripping plot.'
  • Kirkus Reviews stated, 'Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island is a masterclass in storytelling, mixing suspense, excitement, and a moral journey that resonates through generations.'

Treasure Island FAQs

What is a short summary of Treasure Island?

'Treasure Island' is the story of a twelve-year-old boy, Jim Hawkins, who finds a treasure map that belonged to a pirate, Captain Flint. Jim and his friends travel to a faraway island and meet ex-crew members of Captain Flint, who were also looking for the treasure and take Jim as a hostage.

What is the message of the book Treasure Island?

Treasure Island has been called a 'novel of greed,' and certainly greed is a minor theme of the book. But the chief theme is Jim Hawkins' quest to bring home something of great value and to gain his own moral adulthood, a treasure in itself.

Is Treasure Island a kids book?

Definitely a great children's story. This title has educational value and is recommended for boys ages 8+, though members of all genders will appreciate its adventurous nature.