The romance of old Salem, sailing ships, the adventures and legends of the sea, and the perseverance and integrity of a boy are skillfully combined.

My biggest problem with this book was its lack of detail. Mom dies, then grandma dies, then 9 years pass. And apparently sailing on a ship is no big deal (compare to Slave Dancer!). I like the character of Nat, but no real insights here into period life. I need some emotion and some description to really get it, I guess! ( )

For kids: true tale of

math prodigy who improved

sea navigation.

This is the story of Mr. Bowditch, the young American who wrote the definitive book of navigation during the time of President Washington. Nathaniel Bowditch was recognized as a math whiz at a very young age but was pulled out of school when he was 12 to serve an indentureship because the family was too poor to feed so many mouths. Along the way he was given some great advice that helped him to continue in his personal studies. He taught himself Latin, then French, then Spanish. He learned the particulars of navigation and then taught it to his crew aboard ship, making note of how he had to explain it so as to be understood by men with little or no education. He knew from experience that education gave men the ability to transcend their family backgrounds and current poverty. It was free but it gave endless benefits. Mr. Bowditch led a hard life but he never let it discourage him from continuing his own self education or helping those around him to improve their lives.

I, like the author, believe that every life has an interesting story to tell. And I too believe that education is a key to a better life. This story was interesting and fun. It was positive and encouraging. I very much enjoyed it and recommend it for anyone 10 and older. It's just the kind of kiddie lit I like to read.

http://educatingpetunia.blogspot.com/... ( )

An excellent Newbery book with a male protagonist. I recommend this without without reservation.