Robinson Crusoe — in Words of One Syllable

"Robinson Crusoe in Words of One Syllable" by Mary Godolphin is a simplified retelling of the classic novel originally penned by Daniel Defoe, aimed at young readers. This adaptation likely dates back to the early 19th century. The book narrates the adventures of Robinson Crusoe, a shipwrecked sailor who finds himself stranded on a deserted island and must learn to survive amidst challenges and solitude. The opening of this version introduces us to Crusoe's early life, his yearning for adventure, and his initial seafaring experiences that lead to his dramatic shipwreck. Faced with peril on the high seas and ultimately taken captive by pirates, Crusoe's struggle for freedom sets the stage for his eventual isolation on the island. Throughout this segment, readers witness his internal struggles and moral dilemmas, foreshadowing his transformation from a naive youth seeking glory to a resourceful survivor needing to rely on his wits and resilience. The writing maintains a simplified vocabulary, enabling younger readers to engage with this timeless story of adventure and survival. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Daniel Defoe was an English novelist, journalist, merchant, pamphleteer and spy. He is most famous for his novel Robinson Crusoe, published in 1719, which is claimed to be second only to the Bible in its number of translations. He has been seen as one of the earliest proponents of the English novel, and helped to popularise the form in Britain with others such as Aphra Behn and Samuel Richardson. Defoe wrote many political tracts, was often in trouble with the authorities, and spent a period in prison. Intellectuals and political leaders paid attention to his fresh ideas and sometimes consulted him.