Review of The Time Cave - Spanish Main

[Tomy Chandrafrost]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Time Cave - Spanish Main" by Trevor Anderson.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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What would you have done if you suddenly went back in time? Trapped in the 18th century in the Caribbean Sea, then captured by pirates? How would you have saved yourself? 

"The Time Cave - Spanish Main" by Trevor Anderson told us the story of Jack and Tom, close friends who lived in Cornwall. He gave us an experience of going back in time as children from modern-day England. 

Arriving in the golden age of piracy, they had to survive on the pirate ship of Edward Boyle, who kidnapped them and forced them to become his crew on the Pelican Ship. 

The story was set after the War of Spanish Succession, a time when privateers, buccaneers, and pirates still roamed freely in the Caribbean Sea. The year 1720 could be considered a calm period before the wars between Spain and England in the following decades. The author seemed to have chosen the period after the Treaty of The Hague, as evident from the depiction of Captain El Conde's efforts to show goodwill towards the English kingdom. 

Their encounters with Jasper, Kate, and Ralph the cook created interesting dynamics in the story. This book was well depicted, with tension in each scene that made us feel as if we were part of it. 

I liked how this story portrayed the conditions of the 18th century. The depiction of life on a ship, the division of duties on a pirate ship, and the portrayal of pirates not entirely as villains were well done. 

While reading this book, I did a lot of research on pirates, the political map of Europe at that time, slavery in the Caribbean, and sugar plantations of that era. I had always been curious about life on board a ship. This book helped me find answers to my questions, and I thoroughly enjoyed the research process while reading it. 

I gave this book a 5 out of 5 for the detailed historical research done by the author. The writing was easy to understand, the editing was flawless, and the suspenseful plot supported my positive impression of this book. 

I appreciated how the book portrayed the details of that era. The government was not entirely depicted as the good guys, which was how it should have been portrayed. European residents of that time saw slavery as something commonplace, as well as piracy, since during that period, robbing ships from Spain was allowed by England. 

I appreciated the author for conducting detailed research on life on a ship. Details such as bland food, ship biscuits, pirate ship looting, managing war cannons, and the use of weapons like cutlasses, knives, and muskets were well-researched. Usually, ship inhabitants rarely bathed because water was scarce, and the detail of body odor was also well-researched by the author. The looting of ships carrying goods moving to Hispaniola from the American continent and Africa in the Caribbean Sea was also a routine activity for pirates; this detail was well told in the story.

The author skillfully depicted the perspective of the pirates. The tension in the story was well depicted, as was the sadness of the main characters when separated from people who had become like family to them. The disappointment at betrayal, the tension when the main characters tried to escape from their captors, who continuously swapped, and their relief when they finally survived were all well portrayed. 

The downside of this story might have been the fate of some characters left hanging, like the fate of the pirates. I hoped for a better ending for all parties, but it seemed the author had other intentions. 

For a children's book, I liked the historical concept presented in this book. We could also learn many things from this book, particularly about maintaining our moral values even in difficult situations. We were also reminded to keep fighting, even when circumstances seemed against us. 

I recommended this book for older children, as some aspects might need to be explained by parents.

This book was enjoyable to read together between parents and children, adding to the child's imagination references related to adventure and history.

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The Time Cave - Spanish Main
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[Tomi Ahmed]

Sounds like "The Time Cave - Spanish Main" by Trevor Anderson is a thrilling adventure that immerses readers in the world of piracy and time travel. The way the author brings to life the 18th-century setting and the dynamics on the pirate ship is truly captivating. It's fascinating how the book not only entertains but also educates about that historical period. If I were suddenly transported back in time and captured by pirates, I would probably try to be resourceful, build alliances with other crew members, and look for opportunities to escape when the time is right. The story seems to offer a rich tapestry of historical context and exciting plot twists that keep readers engaged throughout the journey.

[Sandre Lamar]

This book is a true gem. The author's attention to detail and meticulous research shine through in every chapter. The historical backdrop was vividly portrayed, taking me to a different era. The characters were
compelling . I Highly recommend this book

[Kristin Cowan]

This sounds like a great adventure story. Thank you for the review.

[Charmaine Mahlangu]

"The time cave - Spanish main" sounds like a good read . I can already imagine time travelling to a time when pirates existed and lived among us. This is a good read for someone who needs their imagination coloured and remodeled. It must be exciting to read

[Priya Murugesan]

A very interesting review! You have mentioned many positive aspects and I would love to read more about pirates and sea life.

[Risper Ouma Anyango]

The question of what I would do just alone scares me. Because I only know how to live in this timeline; pirates, according to the movies, are scary, and you will probably die just from seeing them. I, however, loved your review because you talk about sensitive topics like slavery, such an inhuman act and yet people sold others for money.

[Ashwini Tawade]

The title of this book is very interesting. That would make me read this book. I also like that you have put so much of your thought into the book. It just makes this review a detailed one and closer to perfect. I agree that this book could be suitable for older children.

[Tomi Ahmed]

What a fascinating review! It beautifully captures the essence of Trevor Anderson's "The Time Cave - Spanish Main" and highlights the captivating adventure of Jack and Tom. The way you've described their journey back to the golden age of piracy makes me feel as if I've already glimpsed into their world. The meticulous historical research that the author has woven into the narrative, from the life on a pirate ship to the socio-political landscape of the 18th century Caribbean, is truly commendable. Your insights into the characters' dynamics and the vivid depiction of their struggles and triumphs make it clear why you gave the book a 5 out of 5. It's wonderful to see a book that not only entertains but also educates young readers about a pivotal period in history. Your recommendation for older children and the note on parental guidance are also valuable. This review has certainly piqued my interest in reading the book and exploring the adventures of Jack and Tom myself.

[Cristina-Ioana Toader]

Great review! I appreciate how you highlighted the well-researched historical context and the realistic depiction of pirate life.

[Amy Luman]

Nobody is entirely evil - not even pirates - and no one is entirely good - especially not governments. I appreciate the accuracy of everything and the amount of research that was done. Thanks!

[Elizabeth-Tush4Christ]

I find children's books particularly enjoyable, and this review leaves me with some questions that make me want to explore the book further. However, I wouldn't recommend this book for children without parental guidance. I agree with you that parents will need to explain certain parts to ensure proper understanding if their kids get hold of it. I appreciate how your review highlighted both the positives and negatives of the book. The story offers an intriguing experience of traveling back in time from modern-day England to the era of pirates. Thank you for the insightful review.

[Gayatri Tripathi]

What a fantastic and thorough review of "The Time Cave - Spanish Main" by Trevor Anderson! Your insights into the historical context and the author's detailed research bring out the depth and richness of the story. The way you described your own research journey into piracy, the political landscape, and daily life in the 18th century added an extra layer of appreciation for the book's accuracy and educational value.

I also found your observation about the nuanced portrayal of pirates and the government intriguing. It's refreshing to see a story that doesn't simplify historical figures into mere villains or heroes but rather shows the complexity of their lives and motivations. Your point about the book being a great resource for teaching moral values and resilience is very well taken. It's wonderful that you see it as a bridge for meaningful conversations between parents and children.

While it’s clear you enjoyed the book, you also pointed out areas where the story could have been more satisfying, such as the unresolved fates of some characters. This balanced perspective makes your review even more trustworthy and valuable to potential readers.

Your enthusiasm for the historical elements and the educational potential of the book really shines through. It’s evident that you not only enjoyed the narrative but also appreciated the learning experience it provided. Your recommendation for older children and the suggestion that parents read it with their kids to enhance understanding is excellent advice.

Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful and comprehensive review. It certainly makes me want to pick up the book and dive into the adventures of Jack and Tom!

[Rajaee R]

This book seems very interesting to read. Going back in time is something exciting until you get to somewhere you should not be and get trapped like Jack and Tom.
Thanks for the review. It clearly showed what to expect when reading this book.

[Gerry Steen]

Thank you for this thorough review. Life on a pirate ship is interesting. I am also attracted to the history aspect. I like the cover of the book that portrays the view of a merchant ship from a cave. I am adding this to my list of to reads.