Pirates & Privateers: Susan Hamilton's and John Hamilton's Books

Pirates, a series of eight books, explores all facets of maritime piracy in the Caribbean during the buccaneer era and the golden age of piracy. Each book contains full-color, double-page spreads detailing pirate life or the exploits of a particular pirate. All titles include a glossary and index. The information is easy to read and holds a child’s interest. The reading level of the series is grade five, but students in grades four through eight will enjoy these books. The colorful covers immediately catch your eye and provide a glimpse of the booty to be found within a book’s pages. Wonderful pictures illustrate the text and include those from history, as well as those created by artists today, the most noted of which is Don Maitz.

Bartholomew Roberts explores the life and adventures of the most successful pirate of the period. In less than four years, he captures 400 ships. From birth to death, Sue Hamilton provides readers with a glimpse into Roberts’s life, explaining how he comes to be a pirate and why he doesn’t fit the stereotype we associate with pirates. She claims his mates call him “Black Barty,” but other accounts say this is a moniker bestowed on him long after his death.

The illustrations in Blackbeard clearly show how this master of intimidation earns his reputation. The book discusses his flag ship (Queen Anne’s Revenge), how he modifies his appearance to insight fear, his blockade of Charleston (South Carolina), and the fateful battle in which he loses his head. While the majority of the book relies on facts and evidence, the author presents Blackbeard’s many wives as fact rather than legend.

Captain Kidd explores this privateer-turned-pirate’s early life and the events that lead to his subsequent trial and hanging for murder and piracy.

Henry Morgan is the only title that discusses the buccaneers. Topics covered include the Brethren of the Coast, torture, raids, and Morgan’s exploits, including his arrest and retirement.

A History of Pirates defines what a pirate is, and then looks at the different areas of the world in which piracy flourishes at different points in time. The difference between a pirate and a privateer is also explored.

Pirate Ships & Weapons examines the swords, firearms, guns, and improvised tools pirates use to capture a prize, as well as the ships they sail. Also covered are the Jolly Roger and pirate tactics.

Contrary to what we see on the movie screen being a pirate isn’t a glamorous adventure. A Pirate’s Life dispels some of these myths as the author looks at who’s who in the crew, life at sea, punishments inflicted on and by pirates, treasure, pets, clothing, and some words pirates may have spoken. This book also examines women and black pirates, as well as pirate lore.

The final title in the series is Pirates in the Media. Hamilton explores books (Treasure Island and Captain Hook), drama from The Pirates of Penzance to Pirates of the Caribbean, computer games, and pirate art. It’s a good introduction to pirates in pop culture.

Pirates is an excellent first introduction into the world of pirates, particularly those who prey on shipping in the Caribbean from the mid-17th century to 1730. The fascinating artwork brings the subjects to life, captivating the reader as he/she explores the various facets of these maritime villains. The reinforced binding allows for frequent use, for these books will probably spend more time in readers’ hands than on bookshelves.