Lion Ben of Elm Island

"Lion Ben of Elm Island" by Elijah Kellogg is a tale set in the late 1800's where we follow Ben Rhines, a tough but kind man, as he navigates life’s hardships on a faraway island. The book looks at important ideas like working hard, the power of love, and that never-give-up attitude that shows what it means to be an American and part of a community. The story begins by showing us the beautiful but rough Elm Island, where Captain Ben Rhines lives, describing its rich nature and animals. Then we learn about the Rhines family, especially Ben, who is getting ready to handle duties both out on the water and back home. We find out about his love for Sally Hadlock and his dream of building a life with her. This makes him think about buying Elm Island to create a home, even though it won't be easy. The beginning sets the scene for a thrilling story of adventure, community spirit, and building a family in the face of tough times in the early days of America.