"The Pioneers" is a historical children's novel by Scottish author R. M. Ballantyne, first published in 1872. Set in the American Old West, this exciting story of high adventure and daring-do is perfect for children with an interest in history, and it is not to be missed by collectors of classic Western fiction. Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825 - 1894) was a Scottish author of children's fiction. He was a prolific writer and produced over 100 books in his lifetime. As well as being an author, Ballantyne was also an accomplished artist, having exhibited his work at the Royal Scottish Academy. Other notable works by this author include: "The Coral Island" (1858), "The Gorilla Hunters" (1861), and "The Eagle Cliff" (1889). Many vintage books such as this are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. We are republishing this volume now in an affordable, modern, high-quality edition complete with a specially commissioned new introduction and biography of the author.