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Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
The Pontypool Pirate by Gavin O’Donnell is a clever and captivating adventure that takes readers on a time slip, blending modern-day mystery with high-seas swashbuckling. The story follows Edward, a curious and kind-hearted twelve-year-old boy who lives in a historic Georgian home in Pontypool, South Wales. When his family discovers a bricked-up doorway in their house that’s been sealed for over 300 years, it leads to the discovery of a hidden room and the ghost of Dura O’Rourke. She’s a long-dead female pirate with unfinished business. As Edward becomes wrapped up in her story, he finds himself whisked into the past, outfitted with pistols, a cutlass, and a mission that stretches across centuries and oceans!
Gavin O’Donnell’s storytelling can be summed up in a few words: warm, witty, and filled with heart. Edward’s character stands out as sensible yet imaginative, respectful yet bold. The pacing is smooth, unfolding with a steady mix of historical intrigue, family dynamics, and dry humor. The writing style leans into a relaxed conversational tone that often breaks the fourth wall, making young readers feel as though they’re sitting around a fire, hearing a legendary tale spun just for them. Dura O’Rourke is fascinating; tough, intelligent, and proud. Her story offers both pirate lore and deeper reflections about identity, justice, and survival. The real charm is how the narrative mixes historical fiction with fantastical elements, layering ghostly encounters, witty dialogue, and moral depth without slowing the momentum one bit. Readers who love history, adventure, and characters who grow through curiosity and courage will find plenty to enjoy here. Ideal for readers ages 9–13, The Pontypool Pirate is a rich and refreshing middle-grade novel that honors imagination, resilience, and the stories that bind us across time. It's a hearty “Arrr!” from this reviewer.
