F.B.F: The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

Flashback Friday:  The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

Flashback Friday is a weekly meme hosted by Lisa @ Bookshelf Fantasies and it's a way to show a little love to those books that hold a special place in our hearts.  There are no set rules aside from the fact that the book must be at least five years old.

This week, I'm taking everyone back to my elementary school days again.  Avi's The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle is probably one of my all-time favorite books.  It's the book I've read the most times throughout my life and it's the book I have bought the most copies of...because I lend it out and never get it back (this is why I keep track of who I lend my books to now).  The first time I read this book was in elementary school and I fell in love immediately.  Published in 1990, Confessions is the winner of multiple literary awards, including the Newbery Honor in 1991.

The book follows thirteen-year-old Charlotte during her journey from England to Rhode Island after she has completed finishing school in England.  Set in the 1800s, it was common for well-off Americans to send their children to Britain for finishing school and Charlotte was no exception.  However, the voyage back to America was anything but ordinary.  Traveling without the pre-arranged chaperones, Charlotte is forced to take part in activities that most refined young girls would never imagine.  Befriending Zacharias, a crew member of the ship, she is placed in unimaginable circumstances and must adapt to life aboard the vessel.

I don't want to give anything away about this book because I feel that EVERYONE should read it; it's that good.  I re-read Confessions just last year and it was everything I remember it being.  Seriously, if you haven't read it yet, please do so.

What are some of your favorite ship-faring books?

Happy reading!

Comments

  1. ElsiJune 15, 2014 at 12:59 PM

    During the 1992-93 school year, my then 9-year-old daughter set out to read every book that was nominated for the Texas Library Association's Bluebonnet Awards, and True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle was one of the books. Although parts of the plot were a little bit too old for her, we both enjoyed the adventure. Thanks for reminding me of a book that was a lot of fun to read.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MelJune 16, 2014 at 8:35 AM

      You're welcome, Elsi! I'm glad that it brought back good memories. Thanks for stopping by :)

      Delete

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