Jean Laffite: The Pirate Who Saved America
Written by Susan Goldman Rubin
Illustrated by Jeff Himmelman
Abrams, 2012
The good stuff
- Ahoy, matey – a Jewish pirate!
- Historical context – Rubin points out the motivation behind the piracy and privateering
- Family connections – The inclusion of Grandmother Zora and mentions of wives and family is a nice touch and rounds out the text
- Conflict – Tension mounts between Laffite and Governor Claiborne, even with a touch of humor
- Author’s Note and other back matter – Always a good touch. I had been wondering about the source of the quotes and Rubin explains the contradictions in Laffite’s attitudes, particularly regarding slavery
- Shipping/sailing terms – Adds a vibrancy to the language
- Illustration – Action-oriented paintings
The not-so-good stuff
- Editing – Privateer is explained on page 6 but first mentioned on page 2 and Port-au-Prince is associated with a country on page 5 but first mentioned on page 2. There’s also too much passive voice for me.
- Dry narrative – Generates more energy when sailing terms are used and once Laffite moves to America
Overall rating:
4.2 out of 5.0
My mind is TOTALLY BLOWN. I had no idea Jean Lafitte was Jewish!
Yes, indeed! Jean was of Sephardic Marrano heritage.
Wow. I always learn something when I read your blog. I had no idea there were any Jewish pirates.
Rosi,
Exciting, isn’t it! I have a copy of Jewish Pirates of the Caribbean, but I haven’t read it yet.