Buccaneer’s Spit:
A Race for the Treasure
In this middle-reader mystery, twelve-year-old Callie's parents send her to South Carolina alone for a spring break visit with her grandfather. Joined by a rambunctious Jack Russell Terrier and a friend with a secret of his own, she's set on revealing what the adults in her life are keeping from her. This STEM focused coming-of-age story features a girl/boy dynamic with a bit of pirate mystery and ecological danger thrown in. The adventure includes a prominent secondary character with dyslexia and is set in OpenDyslexic typeface. Perfect for high-low or reluctant readers and fans of The Goonies!
Praise from GrandStrand Magazine
Although this story is primarily for middle grade readers, even adults can get enjoyment out of J.E. Thompson’s novel that explores themes of conservation, family turmoil and learning disabilities. The story follows Callie, our 12-year-old heroine, as she navigates a solo spring break trip to her grandfather’s home in Charleston. From the start, it’s clear that Callie’s family is keeping a secret or two from her, and she’s determined to find out why the adults in her life are seemingly hiding something huge from her. With a heavy emphasis on problem solving, coastal conservation and a plethora of interesting facts about sea turtles, porpoises, alligators and even pirate treasure, readers will learn more about the environment without even realizing it! Buccaneer’s Spit is also set in OpenDyslexic typeface, making it easily accessible for all readers to enjoy—including those who might struggle with dyslexia, like the book’s prominent secondary character, Jimmy. The pair race to solve the mystery of hidden treasure before time runs out and an unscrupulous real estate developer ruins the natural beauty of Buccaneer’s Spit. With a final twist that many readers won’t see coming, this story will keep you engaged until the very end.