The Rite of Passage

Among the classic genres of novels is the coming-of-age story. In it, a young person goes through trials and tribulations, often in the course of a journey, and emerges with new information or awareness that is central to a successful transition from childhood to adulthood. Such rites of passage have been enacted in ceremonies and rituals of societies throughout recorded history, and coming-of-age stories go back to ancient times. When Michael leaves Ceylon at the age of 11, he embarks on a sea voyage unaccompanied by an adult. He and his two friends have almost free rein on the ship, and they involve themselves in mischief that progresses from innocent to serious. They manage to avoid being caught and punished for the worst things they do, but they also must deal with the guilt of realizing that their actions have contributed to an accidental death, and...