Posted by John Lambert on March 17, 2001 at 10:16:54 from 209.148.249.213:
I respectfully disagree about GN: it's one of my favourites. I think
it probably strikes a chord somewhere with Dick waiting breathlessly
in the hide for the Great Northern Diver (Loon, where I live). I've
never been interested in birds, but AR manages to convey the thrill
of discovery - even something as mundane as the nesting habits of
the Great Northern Diver.
I think my most favourite is WH. Again it's Dick (and Dorothea), this
time heading off blindly into the unknown with a blizzard at their
backs. Whenever they pull off a triumphant stunt I feel like cheering.
It's also great having an uncle like Captain Flint who will order a
feast and have it delivered to the North Pole.
In short, I have to say that AR's books have deeply influenced my
views about so many things: sailing, the environment,camping, honour,
etc. I have been reading them for over 50 years now, and confidently
expect I shall read them many more times before I hop the twig.