"Treasure Island" was written by Robert Louis Stevenson, a Scottish author known for adventure novels and travel writing. Stevenson was inspired by a map he drew for his stepson, which eventually became the fictional treasure map in the story. The book became one of the most famous pirate adventure tales and introduced characters like Long John Silver, who influenced popular culture's image of pirates. It was originally serialized in a children's magazine called Young Folks from 1881 to 1882 before being published as a book in 1883. The novel received positive reviews and quickly became popular, especially with young readers, due to its exciting adventure and memorable characters. It helped establish Robert Louis Stevenson as a famous author. The book also played a significant role in shaping the modern image of pirates, including common tropes like treasure maps, "X marks the spot," and pirate lingo.

 

The book was influenced by real pirate history but is mostly fictional. Some characters, like Long John Silver, were inspired by real historical figures. Stevenson used details from real pirate stories, such as descriptions of pirate behavior and the treasure hunt theme, but there was no specific pirate or event that directly matches the plot. Pirates like William Kidd and Blackbeard, who were known for hiding treasure, helped shape the popular image of piracy that Stevenson drew upon when writing the book.

 

 

 

Stevenson’s other well-known works include "Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde." and "Kidnapped"