Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe (Vintage 1952 Hardcover)

“Robinson Crusoe” is a novel by Daniel Defoe, first published in 1719. It tells the story of Robinson Crusoe, a young man from York, who dreams of adventure and sets out to sea against his father’s wishes. After a series of misadventures, including a shipwreck and being stranded on a deserted island, Crusoe learns to survive and thrive on his own.

During his time on the island, Crusoe develops various skills and techniques for survival, such as farming, hunting, and fishing. He also befriends a native whom he names Friday and teaches him English and Western customs.

After several years on the island, Crusoe is finally rescued and returns to England, where he uses his newfound wealth to invest in a plantation in Brazil. However, he cannot shake his desire for adventure and sets out to sea once again, only to be shipwrecked yet again.

The novel is known for its realistic and detailed portrayal of Crusoe’s experiences on the island and has become a classic of English literature. It has inspired numerous adaptations and imitations in various media, including film, television, and video games, and is often seen as a symbol of human resilience and survival.