The Boy With the U. S. Fisheries

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

21008

Title

The Boy With the U. S. Fisheries

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Francis Rolt-Wheeler's classic adventure chronicles a young boy's journey with the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries, exploring the perils of whaling, the defense of fur seal colonies against poachers, and the vital work of marine conservation in the early 20th century.

Summary up to 500 words

In *The Boy With the U. S. Fisheries*, Francis Rolt-Wheeler presents a thrilling narrative that bridges the gap between traditional maritime heroism and modern scientific conservation. The story follows young Colin Dare, a boy eager to join the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries, as he witnesses the dramatic evolution of the fishing industry. The tale begins aboard the steamship *Gull*, where Colin experiences the transition from the perilous, open-ocean whaling of the past to the more industrialized methods of the early 20th century. He learns that the industry has shifted from hunting for oil and whalebone to utilizing advanced factory methods near the coast, ensuring the complete use of the animal while protecting the ocean's resources. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the *Gull* is attacked by orcas, known as 'killers' or 'sea-tigers.' These fierce predators, described as the 'wolves of the sea,' hunt not only for food but with a terrifying ferocity that endangers the crew, forcing the fishermen to abandon their catch to save their lives. This encounter highlights the inherent dangers of the ocean and the courage required of those who work within it. The story then shifts to the Pribilof Islands, a critical stronghold for the last great fur seal rookeries. Here, the narrative focuses on the heroic efforts of the Bureau of Fisheries to protect these animals from ruthless Japanese poachers. Rolt-Wheeler explains the unique biology of fur seals, noting their reliance on the cold water and their distinctive behaviors, such as fanning themselves with flippers to cool down. The book emphasizes the importance of international agreements and scientific management in preserving marine life. Through vivid illustrations and firsthand accounts, the author celebrates the devotion of fishermen and conservationists who strive to tame the waste of waters. Ultimately, the book serves as a testament to the dignity of the fishing industry, portraying it not merely as a commercial enterprise but as a vital endeavor to protect the world's natural treasures for future generations.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/21008.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg21008.epub

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Categories

• Adventure
• Fiction