Review: Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe

Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe, Illustrated by N.C. Wyeth, YR, 2003, Abridged picture book edition, 53p, My Rating=4
Source: library

Robinson Crusoe, once a brave sailor out to seek his fortune, is now a captive -- a captive of a lonely desert island on which he is marooned. With only his wits and the few supplies he is able to carry from his sinking ship to sustain him, he is forced to create a new life for himself, out of virtually nothing. As the years go by, Crusoe slowly becomes accustomed to a life of solitude. He has only Pol -- the parrot he has tamed -- a few cats, and some wild goats to keep him company and gradually, his island becomes more of a paradise than a prison. But this tranquility is unexpectedly shattered when one day, he sees a footprint...soon to be followed by a group of savages who have invaded his island. Crusoe finds himself fiercely defending an island that has become his own, and fighting for the chance to return home.

Carefully abridged for younger readers, this second addition to the Scribner Storybook Classic line, with striking illustrations by N. C. Wyeth, revitalizes Daniel Defoe's acclaimed tale of survival, self-reliance, adventure, and faith.

This is an abridgment edition geared to young readers. An over sized picture book of 53 pages with full page texts so it wouldn't be a one night bedtime story, unless you have an hour and half to spare.

I haven't read the full version so I haven't a clue what was left off but I certainly enjoyed this short form. I feel content that I have a solid feel for the author's writing which was very calming to the eye. I especially liked the accounts of Robinson Crusoe's growing spiritual faith. I marveled at his resourcefulness and tenacity. I certainly wouldn't have survive 28 years!

The illustrator did a great job with the pictorial depictions as well. The paintings were mood revealing and added visual depth.

Overall, I think it's a sound introduction to the classic book.