About This Book
"Scrimshaw" plunges readers into a high-stakes adventure as young Nathan embarks on his inaugural sea voyage to the Amazon with his father. The journey quickly turns perilous when their ship is attacked by ruthless pirates. Nathan is captured by Captain Graham and given a horrifying ultimatum: become a pirate or face execution. This gripping chapter book explores themes of fear, courage, and moral choice, making it suitable for readers aged 8-11 for independent reading, or as a thrilling read-aloud for slightly younger children (6+). Parents should be aware of the intense peril and violence, including threats of execution, which are central to the plot.
What Parents Should Know
Discussion Prompts
1
How do you think Nathan felt when the pirates attacked? What would you do in his situation?
2
Nathan is given a very difficult choice. How do you think he should decide? What are the pros and cons of each option?
3
What does it mean to be courageous? How does Nathan show bravery in this story?
4
The pirates are described as 'murderous.' What makes someone good or evil in this story?
