Midshipman Merrill

"Midshipman Merrill" by Henry Harrison Lewis is a tale set in a coastal Maine town, where a young fisherman named Mark Merrill demonstrates extraordinary seamanship and valor by rescuing a yacht during a fierce storm. Facing taunts from local youths who scorn his modest origins after his toy ship is destroyed, Mark's story explores themes of bravery, perseverance, and the difficult path to self-acceptance and societal respect. The book begins by showing Mark standing up for himself against bullies and his courageous rescue, which earns him praise from the Secretary of the Navy and an appointment to the Naval Academy. Mark's journey is further complicated by the presence of his rival, Scott Clemmons, who's a fellow candidate for the academy, foreshadowing future struggles.