Gr 1–3—Focused on the dangers and rewards of the business of piracy, this series describes the rules that governed the ships, the gear and equipment needed for life at sea, the many types of boats, and state-sponsored and criminal types of piracy. The books are closely focused on their topics, and text runs to about two short paragraphs per spread, supplemented by a short sidebar. The uncaptioned illustrations are the set's weakness, a combination of either garish or cartoonish drawings or contemporary photos of ships, gear, and locations, some of which have little connection to the text. Pirates are a perennially popular topic, and while the information is solid, the visuals are lacking.
VERDICT Consider only where there are fervent fans of pirates.
O'Donnell provides basic insights into the world of piracy. [cf2]Code[cf1] discusses how pirates lived by a code and also covers the rules and punishments--including the means of inflicting death--used when crewmembers disobeyed. [cf2]Gear[cf1] touches on types of ships, weapons, ropes, sails, and navigational instruments necessary for operation on the high seas. Colorful illustrations enhance the abbreviated texts. Reading list. Glos., ind.
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