About this book
Island Queen by Robert Michael Ballantyne propels listeners into a riveting sea story of shipwreck, leadership, and the struggle to forge order from chaos. Set in the early 19th-century Southern Ocean, this classic adventure follows siblings Dominic, Otto, and Pauline Rigonda after a storm leaves them stranded on a remote island; soon they are joined by immigrant passengers and crew thrown together by fate.
Ballantyne blends travel writing and historical imagination to explore themes of survival, community-building, and the clash between civilization and nature. As the castaways organize a makeshift colony, debates over governance lead to an unexpected choice of ruler, while internal rivalries, cultural misunderstandings, and hostile encounters test their resolve. Rich with nautical detail and period atmosphere, Island Queen captures the excitement of exploration and the moral challenges of leadership without sacrificing the warm, accessible tone that has made it a beloved young-adult classic.
Ideal for fans of historical fiction, classic adventure, and coming-of-age sea tales, this audiobook will appeal to teens and adults who enjoy Robinson Crusoe–style survival stories and spirited maritime travel narratives. Listen for a timeless tale of courage, community, and the unpredictable power of the sea.
