The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

By Avi
Period: 1832 England
Newbery Honor 1991
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Noelle

"Not every thirteen-year-old girl is accused of murder, brought to trial, and found guilty." So begins Charlotte Doyle's tale in the year 1832. Charlotte has been raised in England like a proper little lady and is placed alone on board the ship the Seahawk to travel to America to meet her family who had already crossed the Atlantic to Providence. She is the only passenger on board and is horrified by the primitive conditions and the rather hostile looks she gets from the crew. She is impressed only by Captain Jaggery and his smooth manners and compliments. But soon Charlotte is torn, for the crew confides that the captain is mistreating them and that steps may soon be taken against him. Should Charlotte believe these low-class crew members or the gentlemanly captain? Her choice leads to disaster. Then timid Charlotte Doyle decides to take matters into her own hands. This story is an exciting tale on the high seas, full of adventure, and Charlotte is caught right up in it. By the book's end, Charlotte has changed from a shy, fearful girl to someone bold and brave and readers will be immersed in her adventure of a lifetime.Avi has written dozens of wonderful books, many of them award-winners, and this story is one of his best. Find out more about him at Avi's website.