Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove
by Audrey Penn; Illustrated by Joshua Miller & Philip Howard
Published by Tanglewood Press
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Reviewed by Yuka Mizushima
(Book 1 in the Blackbeard Quartet)
What would you do for a chance at a pirate's treasure? Stephanie, Mark, Billy and Daniel live on Orcacoke Island in North Carolina and enjoy listening to Mrs. McNemmish's tales. Mrs. McNemmish, whose family tree includes the infamous pirate Blackbeard, is fascinated with pirate legends. She dreams of one day sailing on the ghost ship Queen Anne's Revenge with Blackbeard. "Whoever buries me at sea will be as rich as Midas and hold in their hands the wealth of the world. And Mrs. McNemmish keeps her word."
After Mrs. McNemmish dies, the four friends decide to honor her last request. Unfortunately, they didn't think it would be this tricky: they will have to somehow transport the body from the church onto the boat. They also must deal with Zeek Beacon, a mean man who is also after Blackbeard's treasure. Throw in cryptic clues, treasure maps and hidden passages and this is turning out to be quite the adventure. Luckily they have some benevolent ghosts looking out for them, including Blackbeard himself!
Mystery at Blackbeard's Cove is a wonderful adventure story. It's filled with humor and thrills. The villain is fun to dislike and Stephanie, Mark, Billy and Daniel are really neat kids. I kept turning the pages to find out what happens next.
I appreciate all the research that went into this book. It is filled with vivid descriptions and fun facts and trivia about Blackbeard and life as a pirate. I also enjoyed the illustrations. The full-size illustrations add to the excitement and adventure. The smaller illustrations at the beginning of each chapter made me feel as if I were sightseeing on Orcacoke Island.
Audrey Penn is a New York Times Bestselling Author, she has written numerous children's books such as The Kissing Hand and The Whistling Tree. This young adult novel is sure to win over new fans and loyal readers.
Armchair Interviews says highly recommended! After reading this book you may start singing, "Yo ho, a pirate's life is for me!"