Blue Horizon (novel)

Blue Horizon is a historical fiction novel written by Wilbur Smith, published in 2003. It is the sixth book in the Courtney family series. The story follows the early life of Mungo St. John, who is introduced as a minor character in the previous novel, Birds of Prey.

Blue Horizon details Mungo's adventures as a young boy in the Cape Colony of South Africa during the 18th century. The narrative focuses on his struggles against adversity, including abandonment, enslavement, and the challenges of surviving in a harsh and unforgiving environment. He is taken under the wing of an elderly Bushman who teaches him survival skills and imparts the knowledge of the land. Mungo's journey involves encounters with various indigenous peoples, colonists, and the exploration of the African interior. The novel chronicles his evolution from a vulnerable child to a resourceful and independent young man determined to carve out his own destiny. Key themes explored in the novel include resilience, the impact of colonialism on indigenous populations, and the search for identity and belonging.