Pirates & Privateers: Julie Thompson's and Brownie Macintosh's Books

What do pirates do during the day? What do they wear or eat? What dangers do they face? How do they navigate their ship or capture another? How do they entertain themselves? Reminiscent of the series A Day in the Life of, this picture book answers these questions that young pirate apprentices often ask. When the story ends, the reader finds four short biographies about famous pirates: Mary Read and Anne Bonny, Blackbeard, Captain Kidd, and Black Bart. Two well-known fictional pirates, Captain Hook and Long John Silver, are also profiled.

For the most part, this is a historically accurate portrayal of pirates without the violence. Two exceptions are walking the plank and burying treasure, but these are myths often associated with pirates. The glossary provides easy-to-understand definitions for words young readers may not know. The colorful artwork compliments the story, and the faces of the pirates portray a wealth of emotions that enhance the reader’s experience. Those who look close will even find the authors in at least one picture.

Sample page
(Source: Publisher, used with permission, image copyrighted)

A further treat is the cassette, which can be purchased with the book. On side one, the authors narrate the book — a great way for children to follow along when no one’s available to read with them. The second side is a collection of eleven traditional and original maritime songs. Some tunes are lively, while the repetition of words in others is perfect for singing along.

A Pirate’s Life for Me! is a great introduction to piracy that young pirate apprentices and parents will enjoy reading aloud together.