The Treasure of Barracuda

Gr 4–6-A yarn about pirates and outlaws, adventures and danger, and a ship named the Southern Cross sailing in the South Seas. Eleven-year-old Sparks, a cabin boy, tells the story of Captain Barracuda, a group of old pirates, and their search for hidden treasure. Two Molars, Boasnovas, John the Whale, Erik the Belgian, One-Legged Jack, and the other pirates travel with Captain Barracuda in search of the treasures hidden by the infamous Phineas Krane. Eventually, they discover that the treasure is, disappointingly for the illiterate pirates, a book. Two Molars is the only one who knows how to read, so their future success depends on his ability to help teach them. Several of the characters, including a Chinese pirate, perpetuate unfortunate stereotypes via the text and the illustrations throughout. The journey is haphazard, with a focus on humorous interactions on board the ship. The theme of the power of literacy is a bit heavy-handed, though teachers are likely to appreciate it.