jenjones83 's review for:

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

3.75

adventurous challenging funny sad tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: No

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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3.75 Stars – A Swashbuckling Classic with a Few Rough Seas

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson is a timeless adventure that has rightfully earned its place in the literary canon. With pirates, buried treasure, and high seas drama, it delivers all the excitement you’d expect from a classic tale of daring and danger. The character of Long John Silver is especially compelling—charming, menacing, and endlessly unpredictable.

The pacing starts off strong, and the early chapters are engaging, pulling readers into young Jim Hawkins’ world with ease. Stevenson’s ability to create atmosphere and tension is impressive, and the moral complexity of the characters adds depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward adventure story.

However, some parts of the novel do feel a bit drawn out, and the middle portion drags slightly with slower action. Modern readers might find themselves wading through certain chapters rather than racing through them.

Still, Treasure Island remains a foundational work that shaped the modern pirate mythos, and for that alone it deserves recognition. While it might not be a flawless read, its charm, intrigue, and legacy make it worth the journey—for those willing to brave a few slow stretches along the way.