Off the bookshelf
Pirate booty
By Colleen Bohen -- Playthings, 5/1/2006
Ahoy! Pirates appear to be everywhere lately. From films to toys to licensed products and more, the swashbuckling excitement of a pirate's life seems to be capturing the imagination of kids and adults alike. Retailers who want to hop aboard this particular ship before it sails might consider stocking up on pirate-related goods across the board. Pirate-themed books present a unique cross-merchandising opportunity for retailers who would like to get an extra bang out for their pirate-buck (or doubloon, as the case may be!) Below are a variety of fairly new pirate-themed books that will remind young readers that “pirate-lit” isn't just about Captain Hook!
Blackbeard: The Pirate King, by J. Patrick Lewis
This book, for readers ages 7-10, features a collection of 14 biographical poems about the infamous Captain Edward Teach. ($16.95) National Geographic, Washington, D.C.
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, The Movie Storybook
Retailers might want to be sure to have this book on hand in time for July 7, when Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest hits theatres. The book features full-color photographs from the film and re-tells the latest adventures of Jack Sparrow and his crew. ($8.99) Disney Publishing Worldwide, New York
Don't Mention Pirates, by Sarah McConnell
This picture book follows the treasure-hunting adventures of Scarlet Silver—a girl from a long line of pirates, including her aunt, Long Joan Silver—as she journeys to become a pirate herself despite a disapproving family. ($14.99) Barron's, Hauppauge, N.Y.
Pirate Treasure, by Loretta Krupinski
Mouse pirate Captain Oliver and his first mate, Rosie, try to get away from their pirate lives and settle down as farmers. Their reputation suffers until a storm brews and their skills from their former profession help them to uncover a treasure that benefits both them and all of the villagers in their new town, Mousam. ($15.99) Dutton Children's Books, New York
How to Build Pirate Ships, by Doug Stillinger
Kids ages 8 and up can build their very own pirate ships with the included 226 building cards by simply following the guidelines in the book. (12.95) Klutz, Palo Alto, Calif.
The Night Pirates, by Deborah Allwright
Follow Tom as he joins a band of little girl pirates and sets off with them on a search for treasure. ($16.99) Scholastic, New York
