Atolls of the Sun

"Atolls of the Sun" by Frederick O'Brien is a travel memoir where the author shares his adventures while exploring the South Seas in the early 1900s, especially the faraway Paumotu Islands. O'Brien uses lively details and his own thoughts to show the loveliness and difficulties of living with the native people of the islands. The story begins with the author leaving Tahiti on a ship called the "Flying Fish," with the interesting Captain Jean Moet in charge. The author describes his feelings as a mix of sadness for what he's leaving behind and excitement for the unknown journey to the mysterious islands of the Pacific. Through descriptive details about the trip, interesting people he meets, and the challenges they face at sea, O’Brien prepares the reader for an exciting trip filled with meetings with different cultures and thoughts about nature. The story suggests a mix of eagerness and deep thinking as the author involves himself in the fascinating and dangerous life of the atolls, forming relationships with both the land and the people who live there.