How to Be a Pirate by Isaac Fitzgerald

This spirited picture book offers a fresh take on pirate lore, transforming swashbuckling adventure into a heartwarming lesson about identity and courage. When a young girl named CeCe dreams of becoming a pirate but faces discouragement, she turns to her tattooed grandfather for guidance. Through the stories behind each of his intricate tattoos, he reveals that true piracy isn't about treasure maps or sword fights, but about being brave, kind, and yourself. This narrative cleverly redefines what it means to be adventurous, making the pirate life accessible and meaningful.

The book’s greatest strength lies in its empowering message, which champions inner strength and defies outdated stereotypes about who can be a hero. The dynamic illustrations burst with energy, perfectly complementing the text and bringing the tattoo-inspired tales to vivid life. Young readers who feel different or are chasing an unconventional dream will find a kindred spirit in CeCe, while the grandparent-grandchild bond provides a touching, relatable core. It’s a treasure chest of wisdom that celebrates individuality with gusto.