Calumet Editions

John Ross

Sometimes, coming of age is literally a hero’s journey

Thirteen-year-old John Ross leaves Scotland for Africa to earn money for his mother’s medical treatment. Shipwrecked, hunted, and captured by Zulu warriors, he is brought before Shaka—who offers respect instead of death. To survive, John must learn a new language, navigate unfamiliar customs, and prove his courage, forging friendships and discovering who he is in this true-based historical adventure.

Touching and exciting at the same time

—Gabriel Rio

Description

He was just a boy when he ran away to Africa. He never expected to change history.

In the early 1800s, tirteen-year-old John Ross leaves behind everything he knows in Scotland, determined to earn money in Africa to pay for his mother’s treatment. But the journey ahead is more dangerous than he could ever imagine. Shipwrecked. Hunted. Captured by Zulu warriors. John finds himself face-to-face with the mighty Shaka, ruler of a vast and feared kingdom. But instead of death, John finds something unexpected—respect. He must learn a new language, navigate strange customs, and prove his courage again and again. Along the way, he builds friendships, changes hearts, and discovers who he truly is.

John Ross is a thrilling and emotional historical novel based on the incredible true story of a boy who crossed continents and cultures—and made history along the way.

Product Details

PublishedAugust 2, 2025
ImprintCalumet Editions
LanguageEnglish
Print length268
ISBN-13978-1962834469
Dimensions6 x 0.67 x 9 inches

The categories listed for this book say it is for teen and young adult audiences. But don’t let that fool you. This tender and emotional story, based on a true story, will satisfy readers of any age. I love this book, particularly the ending. This is a great way to spend an evening with a young boy who will become a best friend for life.

—BEC on Amazon

This is a coming-of-age story set in the early 1800s in Scotland and South Africa. But it is much more than that. From the first page, I was whisked away to a past time and unfamiliar places that rang true. Young John Ross is the son, brother, friend that all of us would like to have. His big heart and determined spirit will win readers over as he attempts an impossible journey alone for the bests of reasons.

—Scott on Amazon

This book, inspired by true events, is an emotional story of an estranged father and son attempting to come together after a tremendous act of love and courage by young John Ross. It is in many ways also a historical novel that place in the early 1800s, yet it feels right for the current times, demonstrating how people can come together after great tragedy and disappointment. Just read it.

—Gabriel Rios on Amazon