John C. Hutcheson 
On Board the Esmeralda [EPUB ebook] 

On Board the Esmeralda follows the journey of a young boy who faces a series of hardships after losing both parents and being mistreated by his cruel relatives. The novel opens with a portrayal of his troubled childhood, where he endures emotional and physical abuse at the hands of his aunt and cousins, followed by a harsh experience at a boarding school. His struggles are marked by a sense of isolation and vulnerability, but they also highlight his resilience and desire for a better life. As the narrative progresses, he escapes his grim circumstances by running away with a friend, eventually finding refuge on a ship. The sea becomes a symbol of freedom and new beginnings, offering him a chance to transform his fate. The story weaves together themes of survival, personal growth, and the search for belonging, setting the stage for the thrilling adventures and challenges he will face aboard the Esmeralda. The novel combines emotional depth with the excitement of maritime life, illustrating the transformative power of resilience.