Cindy Vallar, Editor & Reviewer
P.O. Box 425, Keller, TX 76244-0425
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Books for Young Pirates
Henry & the Buccaneer Bunnies
by Carolyn Crimi
Illustrated by John Manders
Candlewick Press, 2005, ISBN 076362449-7, $15.95 US/
$22.99 CAN
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Even pirates fear the rowdy Buccaneer Bunnies aboard the Salty Carrot. Captain Barnacle Black Ear, “the baddest bunny brute of all time,” leads a scurvy crew that includes a female pirate, Jean LeHare, and Calico Jack Rabbit. One rabbit, though, refuses to be a pirate--Black Ear’s son, Henry. Rather than shivering timbers, ordering prisoners to walk the plank, or toting the requisite parrot on his shoulder, Henry likes to read the books stolen from captured ships. As punishment for refusing to heed his father, Henry must swab the decks until “ye come to yer senses!”One day, he spies a red sky. Parrots squawk and fish jump out of the water. Henry knows exactly what this means from his reading--a vicious storm heads their way. He tries to warn the others, but they ignore him. When even the rats abandon ship, Henry stows his precious books in the empty treasure chests. The storm destroys the Salty Carrot, but all is not lost because Henry’s reading comes in handy when the pirates are marooned on a deserted island.
Henry & the Buccaneer Bunnies is an enchanting pirate adventure. The story itself is entertaining and filled with opportunities for young children to learn about pirates, nautical language, and the treasures to be found within the pages of books. Perfect for reading aloud, it will quickly become a favorite of young and old alike. The illustrations are a treasure in themselves. Look closely for tidbits that make the Buccaneer Bunnies pirates, such as the Jolly Roger with long floppy ears or the firecrackers tied to the captain’s ears. Be warned! They will make you roar with laughter. A superb treasure trove of piratical escapades!
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Meet Carolyn Crimi
Meet John Manders
Read an Interview with Carolyn Crimi and John MandersBook Review Copyright ©2005 Cindy Vallar
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