The Ballad of the Pirate Queens

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

The Ballad of the Pirate Queens

Author: Jane Yolen

First line: The autumn seas are dark and deep In Port Maria Bay: The tunney fish all leap and sport Around the bustling cay.

Why you should read this book: Based on the very true story of female pirates Anne Bonney and Mary Reade, this tale of adventure, betrayal, and women in men's clothing relates the last days of the pirate ship, Vanity, which was taken down by the governor's ship, Albion. While the ten men of the crew gamble and drink below deck, the two women valiantly try to fight off the invaders, and while history is not completely agreed on the fate of the women, this story ends on a high note, with the two "pleading their bellies" and being spared the gallows for the sake of the pirates' children they will bear. Lush painted illustrations by David Shannon bring the world of the eighteenth century to life, with both light and dark moments.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You're sailing off the coast of Somalia.

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Studies show that children who regularly hear books read and see adults reading books have an easier time learning to read. If your children do not realize that books are fun and contain interesting ideas, they will be less motivated to learn how to read and write. Children who do not learn to read and write have difficulty succeeding in school and at life.

Even infants can enjoy books. You can check baby board books out of the library. Your baby will enjoy sitting on your lap as you read the words and point to the brightly colored pictures. If your baby wants to chew on the book, that's OK too.

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You can learn more about children's books at the American Library Association website. Your public library is a great place to introduce your children to books. They will have special programs and incentives for kids of all ages to love reading. In most systems children are entitled to their own library cards from the time they are old enough to write their own names. It's a great way to teach responsibility as well as foster a lifelong love of learning and books.

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Dragon's Library

Wednesday, March 31, 2010