A Crossing of the Hills
The story revolves around a young boy who lives with his family on the edge of a large estate. He spends most of his time exploring the surrounding countryside and hills. The narrative explores themes of childhood innocence, freedom, and the relationship between children and nature. The protagonist's adventures are often marked by a sense of danger and risk, as he navigates the rugged terrain and encounters various obstacles. However, these experiences also serve to deepen his connection with the natural world and foster a sense of resilience and resourcefulness. Throughout the story, the boy's relationships with his family members and other characters in the community are also explored. His interactions with them reveal aspects of their personalities and values, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Ultimately, the story presents a nuanced portrayal of childhood and the human experience, highlighting both the joys and challenges that come with growing up.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1939 · Genre: Travel Literature, Adventure, Nature Writing · 1,938 words
First lines
When it was nearly noon my companion said to me:
"By what sign or track do you propose to cross the mountains? " For the mountains here seem higher than any of highest clouds: the valley beneath them is broad and full of fields: beyond, a long day off, stands in a huge white wall the Sierra del Cadi. Yet we must cross these hills if ever we were to see the secluded and little-known Andorrans. For the Andorrans live in a sort of cup fenced in on every side by the Pyrenees; it was on this account that my companion asked me how I would cross over to their land and by what sign I should find my way.
What this Textopian page supports
A Crossing of the Hills is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1939 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1939 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Travel Literature, Adventure, Nature Writing, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction
- Length: 1,938 words
- Structure: 1 section, 32 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Crossing of the Hills by Hilaire Belloc
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Crossing of the Hills?
- How does this short story by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Travel Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Travel Literature — The narrative focuses on a journey through the Pyrenees to Andorra, emphasizing exploration and discovery.
- Adventure — The story involves a challenging and uncertain trek across mountains, highlighting themes of adventure and exploration.
- Nature Writing — Detailed descriptions of the landscape and natural phenomena are central to the narrative.
- Philosophical Fiction — The text reflects on the nature of perception and the experience of new environments, suggesting deeper philosophical themes.
Tags
Fiction · Novel · Coming-of-age · Adventure · Travel · Literary Fiction · Classic · English Literature · 19th Century · Young Adult · Male Protagonist · Rural Setting