The Voyagers: Being Legends and Romances of Atlantic Discovery facts for kids
The Voyagers: Being Legends and Romances of Atlantic Discovery is a special book written for children. It was created by an author named Padraic Colum. This book tells many exciting stories about people exploring the Atlantic Ocean.
Some of these stories are old legends, like the tale of Atlantis. Others are real historical events, such as how America got its name. The book was first published in 1925. It has beautiful pictures drawn by Wilfred Jones. In 1926, it won a special award called the Newbery Honor. This award recognizes excellent books for children.
About The Voyagers Book
The Voyagers combines two types of stories. It includes both myths and true historical accounts. All the tales are about discovering new lands across the Atlantic Ocean. The book starts with ancient legends. It then moves through history to more recent explorations.
The book is structured around the interests of Prince Henry the Navigator. He was a real historical figure. Prince Henry was very interested in sea exploration. His curiosity helps connect all the different stories in the book.
Who Are the Voyagers?
The book features several famous and legendary explorers. These brave people sailed across the Atlantic Ocean. They each have their own unique adventures.
- Maelduin: He is a hero from an old Irish legend. His story tells of a long journey across the sea. He visited many strange and wonderful islands.
- Saint Brendan: This is another legendary Irish figure. He was a monk who supposedly sailed to a new land. People often call this land "Brendan's Isle."
- The children of Eric the Red: These are real Viking explorers. They sailed from Greenland to North America. They were some of the first Europeans to reach the continent.
- Christopher Columbus: He is a famous explorer who sailed for Spain. He made several voyages across the Atlantic. Columbus reached the Americas in 1492.
- Ponce de Leon: He was a Spanish explorer and soldier. He is known for his search for the "Fountain of Youth." He also explored Florida.
- Colonists of Virginia: These were the first English settlers in North America. They established the Jamestown colony. Their journey was difficult but important.
- Amerigo Vespucci: He was an Italian explorer and mapmaker. He explored the coast of South America. The continent of America was named after him.
The Story Behind the Book
Padraic Colum was a well-known Irish writer. He wrote many books for children. He was especially good at retelling old myths and legends. For The Voyagers, he researched many historical accounts. He wanted to make the stories exciting and easy to understand for young readers.
The book's illustrator, Wilfred Jones, helped bring the stories to life. His drawings show the adventures of the voyagers. They help readers imagine the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. They also show the challenges these explorers faced.
