"A Whaleman's Wife" by Frank T. Bullen is a captivating maritime adventure that immerses readers in the thrilling and treacherous world of whaling. Set against the backdrop of the vast ocean and the rugged landscapes of 19th-century New England, Bullen's novel weaves a tale of love, loss, and resilience. The genre of "A Whaleman's Wife" can be described as historical fiction, offering readers a glimpse into the dangerous and exhilarating lives of whalers and their families. Bullen's vivid descriptions and authentic portrayal of seafaring life bring the period to life, transporting readers to a time when whaling was a vital industry. At the heart of the narrative is the story of a woman's journey as she navigates the challenges of being married to a whaleman. Through her eyes, readers witness the hardships and dangers faced by whalers at sea, as well as the strength and courage required to endure such trials. Bullen's masterful storytelling and rich character development make "A Whaleman's Wife" a compelling and unforgettable read. As readers follow the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and resilience, they are drawn into a world of adventure, passion, and the enduring bonds of love.
The British author Frank Thomas Bullen was born on April 5, 1857, in Paddington, London. He died on March 1, 1915. Bullen's parents were poor, and he went to a dame school and Westbourne school in Paddington for a few years. His aunt, who was watching over him, died when he was nine years old. After that, he quit school and got a job as an errand boy. In 1869, he went to sea and traveled all over the world in a number of roles, such as second mate on the Harbinger and chief mate on the Day Dawn, working for Capt. John R. H. Ward jun. when the Day Dawn lost its mast and became disabled in 1879. He spent 15 years of his life at sea, starting when he was only 12 years old. He later wrote about the hard times he went through: "I was beaten by a black boy as big as myself, and only a Frenchman stepped in to help me." In those days, boys on Geordie colliers or East Coast fishing smacks were often beaten until they went crazy and jumped overboard, or they were killed in the most brutal way possible. If they didn't come back, all that was needed was a line in the log saying that they had been washed or had fallen overboard.
