Pirates & Privateers: Ray Marshall's Books

This is a tale of bad luck, sharp teeth, and stinky toes.

And what, pray tell, do these have to do with pirates?

So glad you asked! The tale begins when The Stinky Toes’ captain, Runny Nose, sails the ship into a storm and she starts to sink. The pirates have no choice but to get away in a long boat, but much to their dismay, the craft springs a leak. And if that trouble isn’t enough, they spy a shark just waiting for them to become his dinner. Now that won’t do at all, at all. So the pirates attempt to plug the leak with items at hand, such as a shoe, Runny Nose’s coat, and rope. Are they successful? Well, matey, ye’ll have to be readin’ this tale to find out whether they escape the clutches of death, or become fodder for the patient shark.

Although written for young pirates, I dare any adult to read this book without cracking a smile! There’s a whimsical rhythm to the words that captivates and amuses. The constant refrain of “Or it’s way-hey-ho and down we go!” allows those not yet able to read to join in the fun, for this is a book that begs for all to participate in the telling. The real gem of this adventure, though, is the artwork, for the boat, the pirates, and the shark pop up into three-dimensional images that are vibrant, energetic, and astounding. The Castaway Pirates is sure to become a nightly treasure before lights out.