Pirates!

November 1, 2011

Gr 4-6-Ahoy there matey! Pirate enthusiasts will be hooked as Roy McMillan relates facts about notable pirates throughout history, including Henry Morgan, Blackbeard, and Calico Jack. There are also segments about lesser-known pirates, including some female buccaneers. Listeners will love hearing the bizarre details of pirate life, such as how Blackbeard would insert sparking fuses into his copious facial hair to make himself even more terrifying. "Gruesome Alerts" warn listeners that a gory detail is about to be revealed. The conversational tone is appealing, and will be a draw for reluctant listeners. Jasper Britton does a masterful job with the narration. His British accent is a natural fit, and kids will especially love his gritty imitations of the various pirates. Short orchestral interludes help to delineate when the story is shifting to a different character (or when a "Gruesome Alert" is imminent), and add a touch of spice to the overall package.-Amy Holland, Irondequoit Public Library, Rochester, NY

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