Pirates Magnified

Gr 3-6—Sixteen spreads introduce all things pirate related in an engaging way, making this much more than a theme-specific search-and-find book. Delving into the Golden Age of Piracy, readers gain background knowledge about swashbuckling as well as certain figures in particular. These include Blackbeard, Black Bart, and Anne Bonny, and Mary Read. Meanwhile, readers are invited to spot 10 things on each spread. Cartoon illustrations are tiny, detailed, and at times humorous. The writing is clear, lively, and concise. A "Rogues Gallery" is included, giving very brief biographies of 21 pirates not mentioned in the previous pages. Further things to look for, an answer key, a "Talk like a Pirate" page, and glossary are appended. This is more for pleasure reading than report writing. The magnifying glass, attractively packaged in the front cover, is fun, and the book will still be useful if and when said lens goes missing. VERDICT This is a fine offering on a popular subject; entertaining and briefly informative for pirate enthusiasts and landlubbers alike.—Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI