The Mutiny on the Bounty
Grade 3–6—In flowing text, illustrated with striking single- and double-page paintings and smaller panels, O'Brien retells the story of theBounty's fateful voyage and William Bligh, the ship's brilliant but harsh, unyielding captain. The book includes a map showing the route of the voyage, a diagram of the vessel, and a description of the living conditions onboard. The author traces the beginnings of the conflict between Bligh and his second-in-command, Fletcher Christian, which led to the mutiny; the dangerous journey and eventual return of the captain and his loyal seamen to England; the settling of Christian and his followers on Pitcairn Island; and the punishment of the surviving mutineers. Although there is some fictionalization of dialogue, thoughts, and feelings, this is a great tale of adventure and conflict. The handsome illustrations, done in watercolor and gouache, are packed with details and action, and add to the drama.—Ann Joslin, Fort LeBoef School District, Waterford, PACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.