Kidnapped (book) facts for kids
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First American edition, New York: Scribner's Sons, 1886
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| Author | Robert Louis Stevenson |
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| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English, Lowland Scots |
| Genre | Adventure novel Historical novel |
| Publisher | Cassell and Company Ltd |
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Publication date
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1886 |
| Pages | 136 |
Kidnapped is an exciting adventure novel by Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson. It is also a historical fiction story, meaning it mixes real history with made-up characters and events. The book was first published in a magazine called Young Folks in 1886.
Many famous writers, like Henry James and Hilary Mantel, have praised Kidnapped. Stevenson also wrote a sequel, or follow-up book, called Catriona, which came out in 1893. The story is mostly in English, but some characters speak in Lowland Scots, a language spoken in parts of Scotland.
The story of Kidnapped takes place in Scotland during the 1700s. It includes real historical events, like the "Appin murder". This event happened after a big conflict called the Jacobite rising of 1745. Many characters in the book are based on real people from that time. The book shows different views on the politics of Scotland back then.
Over the years, Kidnapped has been made into many movies and TV shows. There have been film versions in 1917, 1938, 1948, 1960, 1971, 1978, 1986, 1995, and 2005. Marvel Illustrated even made a comic book version of the story in 2007–2008. The book has also been adapted for BBC Radio 4 in 1985 and again in 2016.
In 2007, to celebrate Edinburgh becoming a UNESCO City of Literature, 25,000 copies of Kidnapped were given away for free. They were left in public places around the city for people to find and read.
Contents
The Story of Kidnapped
The novel follows a young orphan named David Balfour. After his parents die, David goes to live with his uncle, Ebenezer Balfour. David soon learns that his uncle is a very mean and greedy man. Ebenezer tries to trick David out of his rightful inheritance.
David's uncle arranges for him to be kidnapped and sent away on a ship. The ship is heading to the American colonies, where David is meant to be sold into slavery. This is how David's big adventure begins.
David's Great Adventure
While on the ship, David meets a brave and daring man named Alan Breck Stewart. Alan is a Highlander and a supporter of the Jacobite cause. He is on the run from the British government.
A shipwreck forces David and Alan to land on the coast of Scotland. Together, they must travel across the Scottish Highlands. They face many dangers and challenges on their journey. They meet different people and learn about the conflicts in Scotland.
Historical Setting and Real Events
The story is set in 1751, a few years after the Jacobite Rising. This was a time when many Scots wanted to bring back the old royal family. The "Appin murder" is a key event in the book. It was a real murder of a government agent, and Alan Breck is wrongly accused of it.
The novel shows the difficult lives of people in Scotland after the Jacobite defeat. It explores themes of loyalty, justice, and friendship. David and Alan, despite their different backgrounds, become close friends.
Main Characters
David Balfour
David is a young, innocent boy at the start of the story. He is honest and tries to do what is right. His journey across Scotland helps him grow up and become more brave and independent. He learns to survive in tough situations.
Alan Breck Stewart
Alan is a charismatic and brave Highlander. He is a skilled fighter and very loyal to his friends. He represents the Jacobite side of the Scottish conflict. Alan teaches David many things about survival and the ways of the world.
Why Read Kidnapped?
Kidnapped is a thrilling adventure story. It is full of chases, escapes, and exciting moments. It also teaches readers about a fascinating period in Scottish history. The friendship between David and Alan is a central part of the story. It shows how people from different backgrounds can become true friends.
The book is known for its vivid descriptions of the Scottish landscape. Robert Louis Stevenson makes the mountains, lochs, and moors of Scotland come alive. It's a classic tale that continues to entertain readers of all ages.
Images for kids
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Kidnapped sketch of route of ship and David's walk across Scotland
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Robert Louis Stevenson at age 35 in 1885
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Kidnapped cover, by William Brassey Hole, London edition, Cassell and Company, 1886
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Alexander Stoddart's Kidnapped statue at Corstorphine, Edinburgh, depicting Alan Breck Stewart and David Balfour at their final parting on Corstorphine Hill (unveiled 2004). Breck holds the handmade cross with silver button, cleverly designed to carry a message to an illiterate colleague.
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See also
In Spanish: Secuestrado (novela de Robert Louis Stevenson) para niños
