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  • We Didn't Mean to Go to Sea

  • Swallows and Amazons Series, Book 7
  • Written by: Arthur Ransome
  • Narrated by: Gareth Armstrong
  • Length: 8 hrs and 4 mins
  • 5.0 out of 5 stars (6 ratings)

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We Didn't Mean to Go to Sea cover art

We Didn't Mean to Go to Sea

Written by: Arthur Ransome
Narrated by: Gareth Armstrong
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Publisher's Summary

For anyone who loves sailing and adventure, Arthur Ransome's classic Swallows and Amazons series stands alone. Originally published over a half-century ago, the 12 books are still eagerly read by children and adults alike - by all those captivated by the world of adventure and imagination. Such longevity is not only due to Ransome’s unparalleled gift of storytelling, but also his championing of qualities such as independence and initiative; virtues that appeal to every generation, whether young or old.

In this latest adventure, the Walker family goes to Harwich to wait for Commander Walker's return. As usual, the children can't stay away from boats, and this time they meet young Jim Brading, skipper of the well-found sloop Goblin. But fun turns to high drama when the anchor drags, and the four young sailors find themselves drifting out to sea - sweeping across to Holland in the midst of a full gale!

Arthur Ransome was a prolific writer of children's books. Born in Leeds in 1884, it was his father, a nature-loving history professor, who inspired his love of the outdoors and nurtured a passion for fishing. As a child he enjoyed active, outdoor holidays: sailing, camping and exploring the countryside. He used many of these holiday settings for his children's stories, notably the much-loved Swallows and Amazons, a book that sits comfortably in the category of ‘timeless classic’. In 1936 he won the first ever Carnegie Medal for the sixth book in the Swallows and Amazons series, Pigeon Post.

Public Domain (P)2013 Audible Ltd

What the critics say

“Enchanting and escapist” (Sunday Express)

“There is plenty of excitement, a little danger, a quality of thinking, planning and fun which is delightful and stimulating” (Times Literary Supplement)

“Thrilling not only to young readers fond of the sea, but also to older readers who remember how they enjoyed sea stories when they themselves were young” (The Scotsman)

“All the thrills of Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe" (Daily Telegraph)

“Absolutely fantastic” (Daily Express)

What listeners say about We Didn't Mean to Go to Sea

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