Robinson Crusoe

Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe is such a famous story. I think everyone must know about the sailor who ends up marooned on a desert island, but how many of us have actually read the book. Not I. Continuing with my goal of reading more classics this year I set about rectifying that.

"One of the most widely published novels in history, Robinson Crusoe tells the story of a young Englishman shipwrecked in a storm and forced to fend for himself on a remote island, alone...or so he thinks. Fighting to build a life - and rebuild a society - Crusoe must rely on his wits, resilience, and will to survive. With slavers, cannibals, and mutineers, this quintessential castaway story is a harrowing page-turner and a salient reflection on humanity's state of nature. This is an epic tale of determination, adaptation, and the triumph of the human spirit against catastrophe, isolation, and danger.

Part memoir, part allegory, part fable, and written so convincingly as an autobiography that readers were convinced it was a true account, Robinson Crusoe continues to shock, fascinate, and entertain readers of all ages. The novel reshaped the literary world, spawning a new genre of realistic fiction - the 'Robinsonade,' introducing into popular culture the concept of 'his Man Friday,' and inspiring a plethora of written works, radio plays and films. Provocative and reflective, this piece of historical fiction not only provides an intricate snapshot of 18th-century sensibilities and civilization but also unapologetically delves into poignant universal truths that resonate to this day." 

I wasn't sure I'd enjoy this book, I thought given the fact that Robinson Crusoe's story on the island is nearly thirty years in length, and that most of these years he's living alone, it may get a little boring. After all, what could there be to write about over that period of time with no conversation. However, I really did enjoy it.

I think the secret to this book's success is that it's written as an autobiography and this makes it so believable. Although I already knew the basics of the story there were lots of surprises along the way too. I can see why this story has stood the test of time.