Boy Hunters

The antique book with 12 beautiful illustrations is set along the Mississippi River and the prairies of Texas, drawing on Reid’s personal experiences as both a naturalist and adventurer. The central characters are a family led by a former French army officer who, after emigrating to America, devotes himself to the study of natural history and the pursuit of the hunt. The home described in the book is filled with hunting implements, preserved animal specimens, and scientific instruments, reflecting the family’s dual passion for science and adventure.

The narrative follows the boys as they assist their father in hunting, exploring, and cataloguing the natural world, blending educational content with thrilling escapades. Reid’s emphasis on the truthfulness of his depictions and his commitment to drawing from real-life experiences set the novel apart from purely fictional adventure stories.