Review Detail

Jack Plank Tells Tales was the first book to come from Natalie Babbitt (of Tuck Everlasting fame) in 25 years. In this charming story, Jack is an ex-pirate (not that he was ever a very good bloodthirsty pirate, anyway) trying to make his way in the world.

He finds a small town and takes a room at Mrs. DelFresnos boarding house while he looks for a job. Each chapter details that search, accompanied by Nina, Mrs. DelFresnos young daughter. But every job he investigates (from bakers assistant to fortune teller) just isnt quite right for Jack and he has a story to entertain everyone with at dinner telling them why. Ultimately, when Jack is about to give up completely and go back to being a not-very-good pirate, the good residents of the town come up with the perfect solution.

Each chapter is a mini-story in itself as Jack relates some misadventure that would keep him from trying a particular job, making this a particularly good read-aloud or bedtime story. Kids will delight in the silly but adventurous Jack and the stories he tells. Hes just the kind of guy youd like to have over for dinner.

Recommended for readers aged 8 and up, or younger if being read aloud to. The book also has periodic illustrations, making it a good transition book for youngsters.