It is very rare that a good Pirate biography comes along. The Pirates Own Book is one of the best Piratology references. Not only is is filled with useful information but it is a FUN read. It is well-written and full of adventurous accounts. What makes this book interesting in comparison to other books on Piratology is the plethora of beautiful (and sometimes gory) woodcuts. So avast ye Swabs There be storms ahead

In the mind of the mariner, there is a superstitious horror connected with the name of Pirate; and there are few subjects that interest and excite the curiosity of mankind generally, more than the desperate exploits, foul doings, and diabolical career of these monsters in human form. A piratical crew is generally formed of the desperadoes and runagates of every clime and nation. The pirate, from the perilous nature of his occupation, when not cruising on the ocean, the great highway of nations, selects the most lonely isles of the sea for his retreat, or secretes himself near the shores of...