Publisher's Synopsis
Based upon a real boat - the Lord Sheffield did sail the Caribbean Sea until sunk by Hurricane Gonzalo in 2014 - this is a story about the joy of adventure and the value of self-reliance. We asked ourselves, "What would happen if two young boys found themselves abandoned aboard the Lord Sheffield in the middle of the Caribbean Sea? What would they do? Could they figure out how to save the ship and safely get her to port? And how much of their parent's lessons do children really absorb?"
Set aboard the tall ship Lord Sheffield and on several Caribbean islands and countries, including Saba, Carriacou, Guyana and St Maarten, we follow Brian, the "Barracuda Kid," as he fights to save the Lord Sheffield and then set's off on a desperate voyage to rescue his dad and Captain Olsten from ruthless, modern day pirates. Along the way, Brian and his companions experience the beauty of the islands, the richness of Caribbean culture and the challenges of navigating an old, but beautiful ship, across wide swaths of the Caribbean Sea. The story explores the relationships between mothers and sons, older people and children, and friends who become as close as family. Themes emerge such as tolerance to discomfort, overcoming irrational fears, developing resilience and the value of knowledge, learning and planning. Brian is exposed to some of the less attractive realities of life in the Caribbean, even as he revels in the freedom and beauty of the area. Violence, corruption, betrayal and tragedy touch our hero and must be met with street smarts, bravery and courage. Readers will become familiar with the parts of a traditional sailing vessel and the complexities of sailing on the open sea. Navigation, boat handling and weather forecasting are made accessible to the non-sailor. The geography of some of the lesser known areas of the Caribbean is introduced, as well as the 'lay of the land' of several islands. Experiencing the unique culture of the Caribbean, including favorite foods and drinks, adds authenticity to Brian's adventures. What people are saying about In the Wake of the Lord Sheffield: "Every child should have the opportunity to read this novel" "We looked forward to the sharing the adventures of the Lord Sheffield on our weekly get together. We read it in a tree house, in a cabin, at the beach, in a boat - always ending with the request to please, please read another chapter!" This is the first book in the "Barracuda Kid" series. Please go to www.lordsheffield.com for more information about "In the Wake of the Lord Sheffield" and the tall ship Lord Sheffield.
