Barnaby Sharpe likes climbing trees--he is practicing to be a ship's captain and will need to climb masts someday. One early evening during the War of 1812, he is sitting in a tall oak tree, hoping to be the first to catch sight of the British warships that are expected to bombard St. Michaels, Maryland. In an unusual turn of events, Barnaby's tree climbing leads him to a brilliant idea to outwit the British. This story of a young boy who is smarter than the grown-ups is a great morale booster for children and a pleasure for them to share with their parents. Early reader-ages 5-8.

When Captain Tugalong was new, he traveled up and down the harbor directing big ships in and out safely. Now tied in his slip, Tugalong can feel his cabin jiggle with broken glass and cracked wood. One day, Tugalong sees a most beautiful sight: a lovely sleek sailboat coming toward him, sparkling in the noonday sun. As Captain Tugalong and Sun Dancer (Sunnie for short) become friends, the old salt teaches the novice sailboat all about boating safety, and the youthful readers of Captain Tugalong learn the ropes at the same time. Here are all the basics of nautical knowledge: nomenclature,...