Captain Abdul’s Pirate School

Embark on a thrilling, swashbuckling adventure with *Captain Abdul's Pirate School* by the acclaimed Colin McNaughton, a captivating follow-up to the award-winning "Jolly Roger." This rollicking tale, presented in diary form, introduces readers to Pickles, a surprisingly reluctant pirate pupil navigating the turbulent waters of Captain Abdul's rather awful academy. Young Pickles finds herself immersed in the essential, albeit unconventional, curriculum of pirate life, from the fine art of crafting cannonballs to mastering the proper, guttural pronunciation of "Ooh arrgh!" The narrative truly ignites when Pickles uncovers a sinister plot to kidnap her fellow students and hold them for ransom. With a brave heart and a sharp wit, she rallies her classmates and leads a daring mutiny, transforming their dire circumstances into an opportunity for their own brand of pirate freedom. Following their successful uprising, Pickles and her band of newly liberated pupils set sail on the magnificent, if amusingly named, "Golden Behind." Their escapades lead them to a life of exhilarating adventure, playfully robbing other, less scrupulous pirates. The true charm of the story is revealed on the very last page, where Pickles is unmasked as Maisy, a spirited young girl who, amidst all the piratical mayhem, finally has ample time to indulge in her true passion: painting. Colin McNaughton's distinctive and engaging storytelling, coupled with his vibrant illustrations (though not described here, his work is known for its expressive characters and energetic scenes), makes *Captain Abdul's Pirate School* a perfect read for young adventurers. This 1994 hardcover edition from Candlewick Press offers a delightful blend of humor, action, and a heartwarming message about finding your own path, even if it leads you to a life of plundering especially when you can paint along the way! This is a must-have addition for any child's library, promising hours of imaginative fun and inspiring tales of courage and creativity. Discover the joys of pirate school where learning the ropes takes on a whole new meaning!