The Swiss Family Robinson (Illustrated): The Classic Edition with Original Illustrations

First published in 1812, The Swiss Family Robinson remains one of the most beloved adventure tales of all time. Chronicling the Robinson family after a shipwreck leaves them stranded on a deserted island, the story captivates readers with its imaginative spirit and messages of ingenuity, cooperation and perseverance.Brought to life through over 100 stunning vintage illustrations, the island itself becomes a character - with hidden grottos, exotic wildlife and natural bounty waiting to be discovered. Wyss’ rich sensory descriptions transport you right alongside the Robinsons as they build their treehouse paradise from scratch, facing storms, invaders and other threats that test their bonds of family.From racing through forests to harvesting crops, every page turn reveals the wonder of exploration and the pride of self-reliance. Each family member’s unique skills shine, be it calm leadership, book smarts or physical prowess. Readers of all ages will find both inspiration and entertainment here.Complete with playful writing, endearing family dynamics and the ultimate getaway setting, The Swiss Family Robinson deserves its status as a much-loved classic. This edition makes a fine addition to any home library or classroom, introducing new generations to its timeless life lessons. A rollicking adventure as enjoyable today as two centuries ago.

This review is concerned only with this new release of Swiss Family Robinson and not with the novel itself, which was published a long time ago and has many, many followers, so who am I to comment on that?The cover is great, the layout is clean and easy to read, and the artwork is very welcome, as are the annotations and notes. It is highly recommended for what it is and the obvious effort that went into it.Even so, for those who might be curious, I found SFR to be a mix between an adventure story and a Christian-oriented religious tome. The main narrator is a mix of preacher, engineer, naturalist, and survivalist. He is a good husband and good father—a nice guy, in short. The novel is long in detail and short on accuracy (there is no way all the animals and fauna described could be present in the East Indies), and is ultimately a “feel good” novel—no wonder Disney and endless TV productions picked it up.For those who want to know more, SFR (if I may) was written by Johann David Wyss in 1812, with the original illustrations done by his sons. It is just one of the many novels written at that time that were in response to Daniel Defoe’s “Robinson Crusoe” (1719), which, in my mind, is a far more interesting and engaging novel. It was also written during the peak of global exploration of the Pacific and the East Indies (James Cook et al.), so there was a great deal of public interest in the topic at the time. This particular version is faithful to the version written in 1879 by William Kingston in English, and I believe many of the illustrations come from that period too. Other novels of the period include “Moonstone” by Wilkie Collins in 1868 and "Kidnapped” in 1886 by Robert Louis Stevenson, both of which are highly recommended and, frankly, better novels. Since then, SFR has been translated many times and in many languages, with some major additions and changes over time, to say nothing about the Disney.

This ebook edition of “The Swiss Family Robinson” by Johann David Wyss is an excellent edition of this classic story. The illustrations are helpful to identify the various animals. As you read the story you realize that the author, besides relating an adventure, is also interested in teaching family values, self-reliance, and survival skills — still important skills today.

Swiss Family Robinson is a tale of adventure, survival and family growth that is spurred by a shipwreck but is also so much more! It is also a story written in a different time that allows a reader in the 21st century to ensconce themselves in the early 19th century when the world was becoming known for the first time. It is a time-capsule to be understood. This edition is also beautifully illustrated which only adds to the pleasure of the read.

A good mix of adventure and family values, The book tells about the triumph of human over obstacles. It teaches lessons about family values and self-reliance.

When I saw this edition of Swiss Family Robinson, I had to get it. Most people know the classic story, but this edition has beautiful illustrations. I don't know if my childhood book had illustrations, but this one does, and I love it.

Content is what I hope for, the pages come unglued easily. Several pages are falling out as I read it.

A wonderful classic every young person should read at least once.The inspiring message of a family struggling to survive after being shipwrecked while holding true to their values and the moral laws of faith is a powerful example how God can take a seemingly disaster and turn it into a dream.Experience the joys and struggles of the Swiss Family Robinson as they carve out a new life on an unknown island that offers no end of wonder and adventures.This version has drawings of various animals and family moments allowing a glimpse into that wild world. Nuggets of wisdom the father gives his sons are beautiful.Christa

This is a welcome updated version of the classic story. The layout is great with enjoyable writing that brings the story to life. I really liked the illustrations throughout the book - they're detailed and add to the story. A great version for readers to enjoy

I ordered it for my son, and he loved it! So many nice illustrations and text is easy to read.

This is a very well written version of a classic and I love the images

This is a timeless classic, and if you have not read it, then get stuck into it. This particular edition is absolutely stunning. I loved the illustrations, they really brought the book and the story to life. The layout was also well designed. An absolutely beautiful book, and a wonderful gift for anyone. A great addition to any bookshelf.

Absolutely loved this, brought me right back to my younger years.