Module 8: The Not-So-Jolly Roger

Summary. "I looked over at Sam and Fred, swaying in the tops of the two coconut trees next to mine." As this tale opens, three boys are wondering where in the world they are this time. The combination of magic,The Book, and an unknown element are the key to unexpected adventures for Sam, Fred, and Joe. When the infamous pirate, Blackbeard, appears below them and buries treasure on the island of the coconut trees, the boys have no intention of calling attention to themselves, much less ending up on a pirate ship during a deadly battle. When these well-intended plans fail, the Time Warp Trio are off on a rollicking adventure on the high seas.

Citation. Scieszka, Jon. The Not-So-Jolly Roger. Illus. Lane Smith. Time Warp Trio series 2. New York: Puffin Books, 1991. Print.

My Impressions. A fast-paced story with historical overtones, Book 2 of the 'Time Warp Trio' series is a silly, entertaining adventure that kids will love. Author Jon Scieszka (pronounced SHES-ka and rhymes with "Fresca" according to www.teachingbooks.net/pronunciations.cgi) has created a tale that will have readers wanting more. And they won't be disappointed: not only are there over a dozen books to choose from in the original series, but there is a spinoff TV series (Discovery Kids Channel) and a second series based on the TV show.

Library Uses. After reading two to three chapters of this zany book aloud, we could think aloud about unusual times and places The Book might send the trio of elementary school heroes. This could lead into a lesson on history or storytelling. Another possible use would be to have the group participants read the book before the program, and create a cartoon-style synopsis with drawings of the boys and comic-book talk bubbles.

Reviews (Kirkus Reviews) A second "Time Warp Trio'' story, only slightly less clever than the first. The boys now find themselves on a desert island. Blackbeard comes to bury treasure--and his two helpers; he catches the boys and takes them to the pirate ship (Israel Hands is among those aboard). There's some suspense, more slapstick, and the singing of some fine chanteys before the boys are again saved by The Book. Smith's funny/wicked pirates make an excellent contribution. "Historical afterword'' on Blackbeard; another (tongue firmly in cheek) on the boys. Ages 8-12. May 01, 1991

(Amazon review) Much fun for little boys. My two sons (ages 6 and 8) and I had much fun reading this--they were already fans of pirate lore with pirate Legos and who love to dress up and play pirates in the braken. You'll love it too, and besides, boys need more literature with fun, fantasy, silliness, and adventure! Reviewed by "A Customer," 10/1999