The Story of the Samson, by Kathleen Benner Duble

Illustrated by Alexander Farquharson
Rating: Additonal
Charlesbridge, 2008, $16.95
ISBN: 97881580891837
Age/Grade Level: ages 8-11

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Sam and his grandfather relive the Samson's adventures on the high seas, and what a story it is, the ship having been a sealing schooner, then a whaler, an exploration vessel, a museum and a trade ship before finally burning up and sinking in the waters of Nova Scotia where its planks were used for building houses.

The author uses actual events to weave a tale about the ship and its many incarnations, an almost unbelievable history put in perspective in a note at the end of the book where other resources and websites are also listed.

Alexander Farquharson's sepia tones and full-color oils place the reader in the midst of it all, but the mixed format--half picture book, half non-fiction for older children--will make it difficult to recommend to either group.

Reviewer: B. Carswell, Orange County Public Library/West Garden Grove Branch