R.L Stevenson author page

R.L. Stevenson biography

Robert Louis Stevenson was a Scottish novelist, poet, essayist, and travel writer. He is best known for his works of fiction, including Treasure Island (1883), Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (1886), and Kidnapped (1886). Stevenson studied engineering and law at the University of Edinburgh before turning to writing.

His first published book was An Inland Voyage (1878), a travelogue recounting a canoe trip in Belgium and France. Stevenson’s adventure novel Treasure Island was serialised in the magazine Young Folks between 1881 and 1882 under the pseudonym “Captain George North” before its publication as a book. Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde became a significant influence in the horror and psychological thriller genres. Kidnapped and its sequel Catriona (1893) are set in Scotland and draw on historical events.

Stevenson also wrote poetry, including the collection A Child’s Garden of Verses (1885), which has remained in print since its publication. His other notable works include The Black Arrow (1888), The Master of Ballantrae (1889), and Weir of Hermiston (unfinished, published posthumously in 1896).

Stevenson’s works have been translated into numerous languages and adapted for stage, film, and television. In 1887, he was elected to the Savile Club in London. Treasure Island has been recognised as a classic of children’s literature and adventure fiction.