Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

How are you spending your summer? Do you go boating? Today I am sharing a new picture book that introduces ship language and slang. Plus I am sharing a boat/ship craft round-up. The book is Bark Ship Bonnie by Stephanie Staib and illustrated by Fiona Lee. It is recommended for ages 5 to 7. And don't worry if you are not knowledgeable about ship language--there is a glossary!!

From the Publisher:

Bark Ship Bonnie is a sailing-adventure picture book by Stephanie Staib featuring a strong, resourceful girl, her loyal dog, and their boat—complete with a “Ship Slang” glossary and diagram of a real bark ship—beautifully illustrated by Fiona Lee.

Bonnie lass and her trusted furry first mate cast off, set sail, chase sea tales, befriend whales, scope islands, outwit squalls, and make it home in time to slip back into the slip and sleep in this delightfully salty tale of a girl, her dog, and a boat.

From Me:

Let's start with a bark ship. It is a small sailing ship with three or more masts. This book can be hard to get through the first time if you do not the ship slang, but I can see it becoming a favorite as the kids learn the language. It is a story about a girl and her dog who go on their bark ship for the day. They become friends with the sea creatures and dig for treasure on a deserted island. Then they return to home port for the night and of course she is carried by her parents home.

This book is perfect to introduce young kids to ship language whether as a lesson unit or to prepare for the first ship adventure. The first time through the reader may need to stop and explain some of the language. At the end of the book is a Ship Slang Glossary as well as picture of a bark ship with labels to some of the various parts.

So if you have a ship unit or a ship adventure coming up or perhaps you have a child who loves modes of transportation or pirates, this book is for you! Are you hoping to raise a sailor? This book is a great introduction. I hope you will check it out!