Summary:
"Sam Steele's Adventures on Land and Sea" by L. Frank Baum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the young protagonist, Sam Steele, as he navigates the tragic loss of his father, who was a ship captain, and contends with treachery from his housekeeper, Mrs. Ranck. As Sam grapples with his orphanhood and uncertain future, he embarks on a journey that leads him to a new life at sea, filled with adventures, unexpected encounters, and struggles for survival. The opening of the book introduces Sam Steele in the midst of a life-altering revelation following the news of his father's death at sea. Sam's life takes a significant turn when he learns of his father's demise through a sailor, Ned Britton, who brings the grim news. As Sam faces the harsh reality of losing the only family he has known, he is thrust into a conflict with Mrs. Ranck, who claims ownership of his father's property. Her avarice and deceit force Sam to leave his childhood home, leading him to seek solace and a new start with his newfound uncle, Naboth Perkins. Their budding relationship sets the stage for Sam's upcoming adventures aboard the "Flipper," a ship that promises an escape from his troubles, yet also ushers in its own challenges and uncertainties. (This is an automatically generated summary.)