Roger Willoughby: A Story of the Times of Benbow

"Roger Willoughby: A Story of the Times of Benbow" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a book about a young man's coming-of-age amid historical events. It follows Roger Willoughby as he chases his dream of becoming a sailor. The story begins on the Dorsetshire coast, with Roger and his friend Stephen chatting about a ship on the horizon. Roger shares his deep desire for adventure and to escape his current life to sail on the open sea. Their investigation of the ship leads to Roger getting permission to embark on that journey, foreshadowing the challenges and adventures linked to the political climate of the time. Along the way, figures like Stephen Battiscombe and Captain Benbow guide Roger and impact his aspirations as he strives to become a sailor.