It tells the tale of young Jim Hawkins who, through perilous circumstances, comes across a map that leads to the treacherous Captain Flint’s buried treasure. A doctor and the local squire agree to secretly outfit an expedition in search of the promised hoard and take Jim along as a cabin boy. Of course secrets like these are hard to keep and it doesn’t take long for the enigmatic cook Long John Silver to ease himself into the squire’s good graces and begin influencing the selection of the crew. It was this crew filled with some honorable men and some with more suspect intentions that set sail for Treasure Island and the adventures that awaited them.

Treasure Island was written for children at a time when children weren’t coddled in the way they are now. This book is not Disneyfied or condescending in any way. There is murder, mutiny, backstabbing and danger at every turn as well as bravery, honor, and adventure.

It is a terribly fun read for adults, teens, and preteens. Some believe that good readers as young as 10 should be able to handle it, but the old fashioned style of the language may be too challenging for readers that young. You should be able to read this book aloud to children as young as 9.

Treasure Island is available at Amazon. Since the book is now in the public domain, you can get the kindle edition for free.

Pieces of 8ight is from the CD Pegleg Tango by Captain Bogg and Salty

The point of the game is to travel around the board collecting bits (money) and pirates deeds (property). Along the way, there are shouts of “Arrgh!”, bits and pirates trade hands, and children may need to do pirate impressions or follow other instructions on “Walk the Plank” cards.

The game ends when any pirate cannot pay what he owes. At that point, everyone counts up their bits and the one with the most wins.

You will probably want to play this game with your children the first few times, to help them with the rules. After that, kids should be able to enjoy it on their own as long as there is someone that can read the cards and count the money.

Available at Amazon: Pirate-Opoly

Photo by Hova Najarian

I was just notified about the Portland Pirate Festival coming up on September 18-19, 2010. It sounds to me that if you’re anywhere near the City of Roses, you won’t want to miss it.

For two straight days, Pirates will overrun Cathedral Park in the shadow of the St. Johns Bridge. There will be music, activities, entertainment, a 19th century privateer, cannon fights, and many costumed buskers. You’ll be able to buy all sorts of nautical, historical, and piratical crafts, costumes, and toys. And fear not, there will be plenty to eat and drink.

To make this event even more special, they will attempting to reclaim the Guinness World Record for most people dressed as pirates in one place. Anyone old enough to write their name in the log book qualifies, so dress up the entire family and get down there on Sunday, September 19, 2010. Their goal is to have 7000 pirate-clad revelers of all ages.

If you can only make it on Saturday, don’t worry, because you will be able to witness the first ever Stumptown Beard and Mustache competition. Man… you’ve gotta love Portland!

For more information: Portland Pirate Festival

Bring the whole family to the mythical village of Revel Grove (Nestled in the enchanted woods of Crownsville, Maryland). There is something for everyone at the Renn Fest: music, magic, art, crafts, games, comedy, tragedy, jousting, food, drink, theatrics, characters of all sorts, and most especially one weekend each year… pirates.

My son has been to the Renaissance Festival every year of his life and has found something new to be mesmerized by every year. The entertainment, whether stage or roaming, is top notch. My wife will not miss a performance of Shakespeare’s Skum. My son has to see the magic shows. I can’t resist throwing an ax or two.

As spectacle, the festival is worth the price of admission, but there is so much more to do and it really can’t all be accomplished in a day. Grab a schedule as you walk through the gates and plan your adventure. You won’t necessarily be able to stick to your plan, but you will have a much better chance of catching the events that mean the most to you.

Some warnings and advice:

• Get there early it will take some time to park your car and buy tickets.
• The venue is completely outdoors and the festival is rain or shine. There are no refunds for bad weather.
• The grounds are entirely dirt, grass, and mulch. Don’t bother with a stroller unless it is one of those off-road types.
• Don’t be afraid to dress up the youngsters or yourself. Getting into character is half the fun and you certainly won’t stand out.
• Leave your real or costume weapons at home. We don’t want any trouble.

For more information: Maryland Renaissance Festival – Special Event Days

Kids will be completely engaged in the narrative and action packed adventure awaiting them. Parents will enjoy the tranquil historic sailing town, the fantastic views of the Naval Academy, and the smiles on their children’s faces. As an added bonus when we set sail, Eric Clapton’s yacht the Blue Guitar was anchored in the harbor and featured prominently in some of our pictures. (At least that was what we were told and who am I to mess with a good story).

Be sure to make reservations and plan to arrive 30 minutes before your departure so your child can don costume and makeup.

While this adventure can be entertaining for all ages, some in the 3-4 age range may find it frightening and some over 9 may already be too cool for it.

For more information: Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake

Bedtime Stories for pirates takes you on a journey of song and adventure as a new pirate recruit. The lyrics are good spirited, creative and funny. The skillful musicians don’t pander to the young or offer condescending, saccharin, or rehashed music. They have crafted bold original tunes and deliver them with heart and character. As you listen, it’s not hard to imagine yourself on the deck of a pirate ship with the wind in your hair and surrounded by your loyal crew mates.

The best part about this CD is that when your kids play it over and over again. (And they will.) It won’t drive you mad like other children’s music. There is enough here delivered in such a way to amuse, educate and entertain buccaneers of all ages. It is simply infectious and you may find that you are the one playing it over and over again.

Available at Amazon: Captain Bogg & Salty: Bedtime Stories for Pirates