"Pirates on the Bay" by Steven K Smith

This is a fiction story, but the author does a great job of adding bits of U.S. history to educate the reader. This book trips that the kids take around Richmond, Virginia. These trips help them to solve a mystery and expose bad characters. The kids often get into scraps that include having guns pointed at them (as in book two), etc. The main characters are never permanently injured and are always safe in the end. As with the other books, there are slightly scary scenes and other "close call" situations. Overall, it is a fun book with lots of action and adventure. It has moments of great climax, but is also educational and always ends well. This particular book details a search for Black Beards' final treasure that leaves the children stuck on a deserted island with an unconscious stranger after a bad sea storm. We will only address the details in the book. As with other classes in this series, this class focuses on reading and reading comprehension. 

In my class, I always ask what the learners think of the story and keep an eye on their well-being during class. I also endeavor to address any bad behavior or attitude portrayed in the book and discuss alternative and positive reactions. I always suggest that parents take a look at the book and ensure that their child would enjoy it before reading the book in class.

Though this book includes historic events, we do not focus on the aspects of history. We focus on the mystery in the book. If the book’s content is inaccurate or negligent in accounting for all sides or peoples in history, I will address it to present accurate balanced information. Everyone in my class will feel welcome. Our focus will be on reading and reading comprehension.