First published in book form in 1883, Treasure Island remains one of the best-loved children's stories of all time. It recounts the thrilling adventures of Jim Hawkins, a young boy who finds a mysterious map in the sea trunk of an old sailor who has died in his parents' inn. The map is of an island, and marked on it is the location of a hoard of money, hidden there by the chief of a notorious band of pirates. The local doctor and squire decide to set off to find the island, taking Jim with them as the cabin boy, but they soon discover that the surviving pirates are also keen to locate the treasure. Among the colorful characters is Long John Silver, who with his missing leg and his talking parrot, has entered into popular folklore. Although written for children, this is a wonderful adventure story that can be enjoyed at any age.