By Sheer Pluck: A Tale of the Ashanti War tells the story of Frank Hargate, a young man who is sent to Africa to work as an assistant to a naturalist. Frank is a brave and resourceful young man, and he soon finds himself caught up in the Ashanti War. The Ashantis are a powerful tribe who are fighting against the British for control of the Gold Coast. Frank and his friend Mr. Goodenough are captured by the Ashantis and taken to their capital city, Kumasi. They are forced to witness the brutal execution of a British prisoner, and they are themselves in danger of being killed. However, Frank and Mr. Goodenough manage to escape and make their way back to British lines. They are hailed as heroes, and Frank is awarded a medal for his bravery. The book is a thrilling adventure story, but it is also a historical novel that provides a glimpse into a time when the British Empire was expanding its reach into Africa. The book is well-written and engaging, and it is sure to appeal to readers of all ages.