The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi

We are happy this month to introduce our latest contributing reviewer: twelve year-old Miss "Rocky" Brown.

This is an entertaining book about an audacious and brave thirteen-year-old, Charlotte Doyle. This story begins in Liverpool, England, in 1832. Miss Doyle is traveling to her hometown, Providence, Rhode Island, on a boat called the SeaHawk. It is on board that she meets Zachariah, the ship’s cook, and Captain Andrew Jaggery. She and Zachariah soon become friends, but that's not the case with Captain Jaggery. Like her father, Jaggery demands that she behavior 'proper', and that is something Charlotte refuses to do.

Because of Jaggery's sternness it isn't long before the crew begins to grumble. Thinking that there might be trouble Zachariah gives her a dirk. He means it for her protection and never thinks that it might be used against her. But that's what happens. Mr. HollyBrass, the first mate, is found dead with Charlotte’s dagger in his back. Everyone blames Charlotte for the murder. And she is brought to trial with Jaggery as Judge!

To find out whether Charlotte is hanged or whether she ever makes her way home you will have to get "The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle".

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This was a fabulous book! I loved it. The best part of this captivating story was after all of Charlotte’s escapades she had to climb to the highest point of the ship, called the Royal Yard. She did this so the crew would know she was loyal to them.

The only thing I would change would be to make Mr. Hollybrass’ death more dramatic. This book was so exciting that sometimes felt that I was on a rollercoaster, not knowing where I was going; but Mr. Hollybrass's death was not one of those times. The ending was not predictable. I thought I knew all along what the ending would be… boy was I wrong!

Captain Jaggery was my favorite character because you never knew what he was going to do to get his way. He was a mad man. He practically beat a man’s arm right off his shoulder. He also beat Zachariah with a whip for no reason. And I like Charlotte because she was not afraid, even if it did mean life or death. She is her own individual and she didn't let other people influence who she is.

The writer, Avi, actually made you get to know the characters like they were your friend. I was not bogged down with any vague and annoying details. I found the writer’s creativity, and mysterious setting, unique and riveting. So much that I found myself always on the tip of my chair, clenching my seat.

Considerations :::
This book was on the Sunshine State Reader list in 1993-1994, and won a Newberry Honor Award. I enjoyed this book so much I want to read another one of Avi’s books called “The Man Who Was Poe”.

The target group I would recommend this book to would be ages ten to adults. Even adults won’t be able to put this book down. I can’t wait to tell my friends. Bottom Line, anyone that enjoys reading adventurous, exciting, and suspenseful books, this is the book for you.

Considerations :::
Note from the editors ::: The Accelerated Reading designation is 5.3 -- which means that book is suitable for children reading on the Fifth Grade level.