Ahoy there mateys! I read this book for two related reasons. One – my First Mate wanted us to watch the movie and he said it was one of the best epistolary novels he has ever read. Two – I was checking out other books at a local library and it happened to catch my eye. I thought, what the hey, and picked it up because I usually like reading the book before seeing the movie (besides Chocolat but that is a different story). Maybe I am just old fashioned that way or too much of an old soul.

Whatever the case may be, I am sort of stunned and glad and worn out from reading this seemingly simple story. At its base level, it is a coming of age story about a boy growing up and dealing with life. I am a (sometimes) grownup girl, yet I felt deeply connected to the underlying emotions, thoughts, and the truly lovely voice of this person. It was devastating and sweet. The format of the letters seems to be a simple form but it draws you in without seeming contrived.

The book itself talks about To Kill a Mockingbird, Hamlet, and other works that wring my heart and soul no matter how many times I read them. The back of the book has a blurb comparing this story to The Catcher in the Rye or A Separate Peace. But for me it reminded me of Flowers for Algernon or Bridge to Terabithia. Basically I cry . . . a lot . . . and have to recover when I am done. Not this Captain’s normal action when reading most books (I am small but fierce . . . Arrrr!) but what can you do? I have to think that out there are people who would not enjoy this novel. But for me it was a gift.

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