Module 11: Informational Books

Module 11: Informational Books

Book: What If You Met a Pirate?

Author and Illustrator: Jan Adkins

Plot

            The book starts with a description of a generic fantastical pirate and then goes onto debunk the myths that surround such scary, blood thirsty, seadogs. The flow of the narration is as buoyant as the sea and seamlessly goes hand in hand with the illustrations. Although full of accurate information about pirates, the book is still light hearted enough for children of all ages.

Impression of the Novel

            I loved the book and enjoyed the information I learned from it. I am a huge fan of Pirates of the Caribbean and already knew some of the information the book had to offer such as the fact that Pirates voted for their captains and occasionally fired them, Pirates never cheated another Pirate, and rarely do Pirates fight in open daylight, rather, Pirates sneak attack at night or undercover. Still, I learned a lot and enjoyed the book immensely.

Usage in a Classroom Setting

            I would have the kids dress up as Pirates from a fantastical point of view and then have a show where the audience tells the Pirate that his or her whole character is wrong and then go onto recreate the stage Pirate and transform him or her into a real Pirate.

Reviews

“Adkins begins with a stereotypical picture and description of a pirate, then proceeds to debunk the myths that surround these mysterious figures. Contrary to popular belief, pirates did not command large ships with guns and cannons, but preferred smaller, more nimble vessels so they could take victims by surprise and make a quick escape. Real pirates were as skillful with a needle as they were with a cutlass; most sewed their own clothes and mended sails. Packed with interesting but little-known facts, the text illuminates life on the high seas and answers many questions children may have: Did pirates force captives to walk the plank (no) or bury treasure (rarely)? Do pirates still operate today? Each of these questions and more are answered in spreads that include full-color spot illustrations, diagrams, and cross-sections. Adkins's detailed renderings will be as familiar to fans of his other nonfiction books as his tongue-in-cheek humor, both of which appeal to a broad range of ages. A fun and informative read.”~ By Laurie Edwards, Infinity Charter School, Harrisburg, PA

APA Citation

Adkins, J. (2004). What if you met a pirate?: An historical voyage of seafaring speculation. Brookfield, Ct: Roaring Brook Press.

Edwards, L., & Grabarek, D. (2004). What If You Met a Pirate?. School Library Journal, 50(12), 125.