The Boy Pilot of the Lakes; Or, Nat Morton's Perils

"The Boy Pilot of the Lakes; Or, Nat Morton's Perils" by Frank V. Webster is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story primarily follows the adventures of a determined young boy named Nat Morton, who aspires to become a pilot on the Great Lakes. Throughout the narrative, Nat faces various challenges, showcasing his bravery, resourcefulness, and deep love for the water and boats. At the start of the novel, we meet Nat as he heroically saves a drifting rowboat from being destroyed by a freight steamer at the Chicago waterfront. His actions garner him a reward from the boat's owner, which opens a pathway for Nat to express his desire to work on boats. As Nat navigates the challenges of orphanhood after the loss of his father, he hopes to find stable employment in the maritime world. His journey leads him to an opportunity on the steamer "Jessie Drew", where he encounters both kindness and adversity, particularly from the mate, Mr. Bumstead, who is resentful of Nat's presence on the ship. The opening chapters set the stage for Nat's quest for a better life, revealing his strong character and the obstacles he must overcome.