I Spy

In 1668 a young Jamaican girl Kemosha secures her freedom from enslavement and finds her true self while sailing to Panama with the legendary Captain Morgan. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection Inspired by accounts of women pirates this fantastical tale represents the era’s cruelty without romanticizing it. Kemosha’s love and persistence combine with forceful action the terror of harsh racism and passionate colourful language. —The Toronto Star Kemosha of the Caribbean is easily the best pirate tale I have ever encountered. If that seems a bold statement its boldness pales in comparison to Kemosha’s enduring bravery and steadfastness. —Black Girls Create Wheatle’s swashbuckling latest blends adventure history and poignancy . . . Well written and full of thrills this cross between Margarita Engle’s Hurricane Dancers and L. A. Meyer’s Bloody Jack Adventures series will inspire hope and spark admiration. —Booklist In 1668 fifteenyearold Kemosha is sold by a slave owner to a tavern keeper in Port Royal Jamaica—the “wickedest city on earth.” She soon flees from a brutal assault and finds herself in the company of a mysterious free Black man Ravenhide who teaches her the fine art of swordplay introduces her to her soul mate Isabella and helps her win her freedom. Ravenhide is a privateer for the notorious Captain Morgan aboard his infamous ship the Satisfaction. At Ravenhide’s encouragement Morgan invites Kemosha to join them on a pillaging voyage to Panama. As her swashbuckling legend grows she realizes she has the chance to earn enough to buy the freedom of her loved ones—if she can escape with her life . . .