Beneath the Old Black Sea

The sailors say the black water is cursed.Tom Finch is only the cabin boy, the lowest hand aboard the weathered old ship Marigold. But when the wind dies and the water turns dark and still, and shining things begin to vanish from the deck in the night, the crew starts to whisper of a monster in the deep - and to sharpen their harpoons.Tom is the only one who wonders whether they have it wrong. When a light answers his lantern from far below the waves, he must choose: stand with a frightened crew, or trust the gentle giant no one else will believe in - even if it means going over the side, into the black water he has feared since the sea took his father, to prove it before it's too late.A page-turning illustrated adventure about grief, courage, and daring to look closer, for readers 9 and up - and a rich, atmospheric read-aloud for younger listeners sharing it with a family member or classroom.Inside this edition: - 24 chapters, each opening with an engraving-style illustration- A glossary of real sailing words young readers can learn- A built-in book club guide with discussion questions for classrooms and familiesClimb the rigging, watch the black water, and find out what really waits beneath. Perfect for readers who loved classic sea tales and gentle-monster stories, and strong readers ready for a book with real depth.