Under the Jolly Roger: Being an Account of the Further Nautical Adventures of Jacky Faber

Under the Jolly Roger is the third book in the popular Bloody Jack series, continuing the swashbuckling adventures of Jacky Faber, a resourceful and independent fifteen-year-old girl. Set in 1804, Jacky's quest to reunite with her beloved Jaimy leads her onto a whaling ship, into the bustling streets of London, and eventually onto a British warship where she, disguised as a boy, rises through the ranks. The book explores themes of identity, resilience, and justice as Jacky faces press-gangs, mutiny, smuggling, and even commands her own privateer vessel. Parents should be aware of themes of peril, violence (naval battles), and a mild, averted threat of sexual assault, handled implicitly for a middle-grade audience. It's a long, immersive read perfect for children aged 10-14 who enjoy historical fiction, strong female protagonists, and fast-paced adventure.

After leaving the Lawson Peabody School for Young Girls in Boston—under dire circumstances, of course—Jacky Faber boards a whaling ship bound for London, where she hopes to find her beloved Jaimy. But things don’t go as planned, and soon Jacky is off on a wild misadventure at sea.