GREAT READS

Capt. Hook: The Adventures of a Villainous Youth

by J.V. Hart ; illustrated by Brett Helquist.

James Matthew, soon to be the infamous Captain Jas. Hook, was born of a shadowy heritage and doesn't even know who his mother is. James is sent to Eton by his father, Lord B, who wants nothing to do with him. Before sending James to Eton, Lord B forced James to live with his Aunt so no one would figure out that James was his son for fear of embarrassment. While at Eton, he quickly makes enemies and friends and elevates to fame. However, when he falls in love with Ananova, a Sultana Princess, James' life at Eton begins to fall apart. As punishment for destroying the ship originally bound to take Ananova home, Lord B sends James aboard the Sea Witch, a ragged ship with a cruel captain, for seven years before the mast. Almost immediately James starts asking questions--Where is this ship going? And what is it's dark purpose?

I loved this book because I really like Captain Hook as a character. I also like seeing that the bad guy is the good guy with a touch of evil. This book has adventure, mystery, and fantasy nicely mixed together with a touch of romance.

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