Publisher's Synopsis
This illustrated, large-print classic biography of Christopher Columbus was written in 1915 for young readers. Though written for children, ages 9 through 15, this exciting, fast-paced real life adventure story is a fun and read-worthy book for adults as well as for kids. Columbus's life was like a ride on Fortune's wheel. He started as an unknown foreigner, far from home, with a great dream. He was poor and ignored. Through hard work, prayer and belief in his mission, he rose to great fame. Kings and Queens showered him with riches, honor and glory. In good times, people loved him and wanted to be his friend.
But Fortune's Wheel never stops turning. Later on, he almost starved to death in the New World. His friends abandoned him. Then he was arrested and sent back to Spain in chains and disgrace. Enemies told lies about him and plotted his destruction. He lost the king's favor and all the riches and glory that he had before. He was despised.
Shortly after, his fortune rose again. Fame and wealth and his good reputation were restored, but not for long. At his life's end, King Ferdinand refused to honor his pledged reward to Columbus for discovering and establishing Spain's presence in the New World. Columbus died in poverty with little more than the chains that had bound him. But after his death, he was a celebrated hero again. Leaders quarreled over the honor of having Columbus's body buried in their land, and it was moved from place to place. It was a tumultuous life.
Columbus had always experienced the ever-changing nature of political viewpoints and would not be surprised that public opinion regarding his life and accomplishments still change. The life of Columbus is a story of struggle and controversy. Great men and women, like Columbus usually have many admirers, and just as many detractors. It is that way in human life. But the first question to ask is not whether we like or dislike a great man or woman, but rather, what is it that makes him or her great? Read this book and you will be able to answer that question.
