R. M. Ballantyne 
Battery and the Boiler 

Originally published in 1883, 'The Battery and the Boiler’ by R.M. Ballantyne is a fascinating nautical adventure story. Born aboard a ship in the midst of a powerful storm, and fascinated by electricity due to the circumstances of his birth, young Robin Wright was always destined for a life on the open sea. His two interests collide when young Robin is asked to help lay powerful submarine cables and so he sets sail on the experience of a lifetime. A charming and intriguing tale from the popular children’s author.-