Review of Evan and Friends Meet the Pirates
Posted: 27 Aug 2021, 13:05
[Following is a volunteer review of "Evan and Friends Meet the Pirates" by Chris Williams.]
While having a grand time swimming in a sea somewhere in Wales, a mysterious wave sweeps Evan and his friends to a far-off tropical island. Alone and stranded, the children feel lost and desperate. Luckily, a ship passes by and rescues the trio. But this is not an ordinary vessel. Evan, Grayson, and Violet are onboard a pirate ship. Sailing back home will be a wild adventure. But the kids will soon discover that a pirate’s life is beyond having fun at the high seas.
Evan and Friends Meet the Pirates is written by Chris Williams and illustrated by Kez Andrews. It is the second installation in a series of adventure books for children. Similar to the first book, the adventure happens as the main characters encounter fascinating people. In this standalone, the pirates get the spotlight. The story gives a sneak peek of the lives of these mariners. It briefly introduces the language, the form of entertainment, the strict moral code, and the leadership of the captain, to name a few. It provides a different perspective to the romanticized reputation typically associated with these people. It seems to encourage readers to look beyond stereotypes. It is what I like most in the book. More so, the principal characters are from various races promoting the concept of diversity and tolerance. There is also a female pirate captain suggesting that leadership positions are not exclusive to a particular gender. Like the other book in the series, proceeds go to a charitable institution for children.
Parents will appreciate the lessons in this book. It encourages children to rediscover outdoor activities. Aside from gadgets and video games, these recreations are delightful ways to spend time with family and friends. These activities also keep the kids fit and teach them to appreciate nature. In the story, Evan and his friends enjoy swimming and watching marine life. They are also familiar with basic survival skills in exploring the tropical island. Likewise, the entertainment and educational value of this book will appeal to young readers. The fascination with pirates is relatable, and the adventures are enjoyable. They also learn new words which have ample explanations incorporated in the text. A glossary follows after the story, which is a helpful addition to recall unfamiliar terms. The kids can also explore their creativity in a bonus section for coloring activities.
The illustrations appropriately complement the significant scenes in the story. These images are on separate pages from the text. It contributes to the readability because the words do not overlap with the drawings. Colors help identify the characters. The names correspond to a color. For example, Evan wears red and green. Grayson is in gray and white, and Violet dresses in her namesake. These color schemes are consistent as they change their clothes depending on the activity and location. The crew from another pirate ship is distinguishable because of the color of their clothes. However, there is one particular discrepancy that I notice. The swimming goggles of Grayson are not on the drawing as implied in the text. Although there is nothing to dislike in the book, the rendering style of the illustrations is not something I prefer.
The story closes with no loose ends but suggests upcoming adventures. The language is conversational and free from swear words. Also, religious groups will find the material inoffensive. It is suitable for kids between seven and twelve years old. Anyone with a fascination for pirates should get a copy.
There are issues with grammar, punctuation, and spelling. There are inconsistencies with the use of punctuations concerning quotation marks. A book for children should set an example, so mindfulness in editing is crucial. I suggest another round of proofreading and editing.
The book is commendable in giving a learning-while-having-fun experience. The lessons and the dedication to support charitable institutions are equally notable. However, the editing gets a demerit. That said, I give three out of four stars.
******
Evan and Friends Meet the Pirates
View: on Bookshelves
While having a grand time swimming in a sea somewhere in Wales, a mysterious wave sweeps Evan and his friends to a far-off tropical island. Alone and stranded, the children feel lost and desperate. Luckily, a ship passes by and rescues the trio. But this is not an ordinary vessel. Evan, Grayson, and Violet are onboard a pirate ship. Sailing back home will be a wild adventure. But the kids will soon discover that a pirate’s life is beyond having fun at the high seas.
Evan and Friends Meet the Pirates is written by Chris Williams and illustrated by Kez Andrews. It is the second installation in a series of adventure books for children. Similar to the first book, the adventure happens as the main characters encounter fascinating people. In this standalone, the pirates get the spotlight. The story gives a sneak peek of the lives of these mariners. It briefly introduces the language, the form of entertainment, the strict moral code, and the leadership of the captain, to name a few. It provides a different perspective to the romanticized reputation typically associated with these people. It seems to encourage readers to look beyond stereotypes. It is what I like most in the book. More so, the principal characters are from various races promoting the concept of diversity and tolerance. There is also a female pirate captain suggesting that leadership positions are not exclusive to a particular gender. Like the other book in the series, proceeds go to a charitable institution for children.
Parents will appreciate the lessons in this book. It encourages children to rediscover outdoor activities. Aside from gadgets and video games, these recreations are delightful ways to spend time with family and friends. These activities also keep the kids fit and teach them to appreciate nature. In the story, Evan and his friends enjoy swimming and watching marine life. They are also familiar with basic survival skills in exploring the tropical island. Likewise, the entertainment and educational value of this book will appeal to young readers. The fascination with pirates is relatable, and the adventures are enjoyable. They also learn new words which have ample explanations incorporated in the text. A glossary follows after the story, which is a helpful addition to recall unfamiliar terms. The kids can also explore their creativity in a bonus section for coloring activities.
The illustrations appropriately complement the significant scenes in the story. These images are on separate pages from the text. It contributes to the readability because the words do not overlap with the drawings. Colors help identify the characters. The names correspond to a color. For example, Evan wears red and green. Grayson is in gray and white, and Violet dresses in her namesake. These color schemes are consistent as they change their clothes depending on the activity and location. The crew from another pirate ship is distinguishable because of the color of their clothes. However, there is one particular discrepancy that I notice. The swimming goggles of Grayson are not on the drawing as implied in the text. Although there is nothing to dislike in the book, the rendering style of the illustrations is not something I prefer.
The story closes with no loose ends but suggests upcoming adventures. The language is conversational and free from swear words. Also, religious groups will find the material inoffensive. It is suitable for kids between seven and twelve years old. Anyone with a fascination for pirates should get a copy.
There are issues with grammar, punctuation, and spelling. There are inconsistencies with the use of punctuations concerning quotation marks. A book for children should set an example, so mindfulness in editing is crucial. I suggest another round of proofreading and editing.
The book is commendable in giving a learning-while-having-fun experience. The lessons and the dedication to support charitable institutions are equally notable. However, the editing gets a demerit. That said, I give three out of four stars.
******
Evan and Friends Meet the Pirates
View: on Bookshelves