85 pages • 2 hours read
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle
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Book Brief
278
Novel • Fiction
Atlantic Ocean • 1830s
1990
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
Published in 1990, The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, by children’s book writer Avi, tells the story of a teenage girl who travels from England to America aboard a sailing ship filled with intrigue, mutiny, and murder; she learns to be a sailor, withstands a hurricane, and thwarts the captain’s attempts to kill her. Written for middle-grade readers, the book won several awards, including the Newbery in 1991.
Adventurous
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
88,798 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi captivates readers with its thrilling maritime adventure and strong female protagonist. Praised for its engaging plot and historical accuracy, it also receives criticism for occasional predictability and character development issues. Overall, fans appreciate its compelling narrative and exploration of themes like bravery and justice.
Who Should Read The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle?
Readers who would enjoy The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi typically appreciate historical adventure novels with strong, young female protagonists. Fans of Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren or Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell will likely find this tale of maritime adventure and self-discovery compelling.
88,798 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Zachariah
Zachariah
The ship's cook and surgeon, who becomes a mentor and friend to Charlotte. He offers her guidance and support throughout the voyage.
Captain Jaggery
Captain Jaggery
The authoritative and demanding captain of the ship Seahawk. He initially presents himself as a gentleman but reveals a darker side as the story progresses.
Mr. Grummage
Mr. Grummage
A business associate of Charlotte's father, responsible for arranging her passage on the ship. He shows little concern for her safety and well-being.
Mr. Keetch
Mr. Keetch
The second mate on the Seahawk, known for his servility towards Captain Jaggery and nervous demeanor. His actions play a significant role in the events that unfold.
Fisk
Fisk
A large and strong sailor, initially skeptical of Charlotte but eventually champions her cause. His character evolves as part of the ship's crew dynamics.
Mr. Hollybrass
Mr. Hollybrass
The first mate on the Seahawk, tasked with relaying Captain Jaggery's orders. His tense relationship with the captain highlights the strain aboard the ship.
Cranick
Cranick
A former crew member with a past grievance against Captain Jaggery. His history with the captain affects the crew’s view and actions against the leadership.
The Crew
The Crew
A group of sailors aboard the Seahawk, initially appearing disheveled and downtrodden. They share a collective past with Captain Jaggery and play a critical role in the ship's happenings.
Charlotte’s Father
Charlotte’s Father
A successful businessman and father to Charlotte, whose demeanor and attitudes bear similarities to Captain Jaggery. Charlotte's perception of him changes throughout her story.
278
Novel • Fiction
Atlantic Ocean • 1830s
1990
Middle grade
10-14 years
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