Quarterdeck and Fok'sle: Stories of the Sea

"Quarterdeck and Fok'sle: Stories of the Sea" by Molly Elliot Seawell is a compilation of kids' tales about daring adventures on the sea from the 1800s. These stories tell of a playful boy named Young Brydell who lives his life adventuring in the navy with his friends and learning lessons in unexpected ways. The book shows what it was like to grow up in the navy, with all the exciting sea adventures and strong friendships between boys. The story begins with a young boy of nine messing around at the navy yard with his friend Grubb the marine and also Admiral Beaumont. The boy builds a little fort and pretends to shoot at Grubb, and the admiral isn’t too happy, but everyone laughs about it. Brydell's character grows on you fast as you learn of his relationships with friend and his silly side.