The Wrong Box (1889)

The Wrong Box by Robert Louis Stevenson and Lloyd Osbourne (1889) – Two brothers are the last two survivors of a very valuable tontine agreement.  Their heirs attempt a variety of inventive maneuvers to position themselves to inherit the fortune.

My affection for Stevenson’s writing continues to grow.  I’m still not sure how I managed to go this long without having read any of his stories.  With each new one I try, I’m certain that I’ll have run the table.  But not yet it seems.

This black comedy, co-written with his step-son, is a wonderful bit of dark silliness.  The heirs are an unlikely group of conspirators and plotters.  every poor decision they make there are more complexities added to their plans.  Unlike some of his best-known works (e.g. “Treasure Island”), this doesn’t qualify as a “boy’s adventure”.  The topic is decidedly more adult as is the humor.  As with all of his work, Stevenson’s writing remains bright and breezy to read a hundred years on.

He would write two other novels with Osbourne, “The Wrecker (1892) and “The Ebb Tide” (1894).  The younger man would help with ideas for some of Stevenson’s other works as well.

This was a fun, change of pace read for me.  The book is short (82 pages), and Stevenson is always a sharp storyteller.

Other Stevenson books I’ve reviewed: Kidnapped, Treasure Island, Strange Case of Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde.

Why You Will Like It – A quick read that offers a darkly amusing adventure.

Rating – **** Recommended