October 16, 2026
I got an ARC of this book, and halfway through explaining what an ARC means to my family storybook group, my nephew K interrupted and said, “ok, good let’s read it”. Since the children did not care for my explanation, feel free to opt out as well and move to the next paragraph. An ARC is an Advanced Reader Copy that publishers send out to get advance reviews. There. I finally got it out.
Montague isn’t like the other pirates on The Lucky Sneaker, a pirate ship jam-packed with the most piratey pirates. The other pirates are dirty and smelly and filled with evil intent which means the Captain is completely baffled by Montague Frippington von Fancypants. Montague loves wearing pearls, being polite as he robs you, serving up tea to thirsty prisoners, and wearing a petticoat so he doesn’t have “a sweaty butt”. The captain says again and again that “pirates don't do that”, but Montague quickly reminds him that, “I am a pirate, so I guess pirates do.” Can’t mess with that logic. I don’t like to ruin the ending of books, so you’ll have to read it if you want to know if the captain ever accepts Montague as one of his own.
Bits and Pieces: I have to make another guess here and say probably digital illustrations? I could be wrong.
Not Sure: This is not a me complaint, but my godson A (5 years old) had a real issue with the lack of swordplay. I drew his attention to the constant thievery, pillaging, and murderous looks throughout the book, but alas, he was unmoved. I fear he made his mind up early and would not let his favorite godparent (JK that’s not me, he’s completely mad for his uncle "Nafan") guide him.
Favorite Part: The fact that the ship was called The Leaky Sneaker. The problem of a sweaty butt being top of mind for all the overly warm pirates. How the captain faced all his problems by putting his head in something to avoid them. Ex., a cannon, a barrel, etc.
