Wayward seafarer

There are some books you love to read to your child, and some he prefers, but we think you’ll both agree that Carrie Clickard’s “Victricia Malicia: Book-Loving Buccaneer” will be considered a treasure. In this tale, illustrated by Mark Meyers (of “Ballpark Mysteries” fame), young Victricia just can’t embrace the family business of swashbuckling. Instead, she yearns for books and dry land.

Clickard’s rhyming tale is a joy to read aloud, and she introduces her readers (ages 4–8) to a boatload of pirate terms.

She vanquishes a sea serpent and is hailed a hero, but she stays true to her dream and opens a bookstore on an island. Her independent spirit is an inspiration to all.

“Victricia Malicia: Book-Loving Buccaneer” by Carrie Clickard (FlashLight Press, $16.95). Visit www.victriciamalicia.com.