Shatranj is the ancient Persian word for chess. This book is a fictionalized account of a girl in London and six boys in Europe and the Middle East who play their versions of Shatranj or chess. It is written with grades four through six in mind.
Captain Hogeboom invites an old friend to come to Sound Watch where there will be a family camp adventure on a pirate theme. A derelict vessel is transformed into a pirate ship. Several families are divided into pirate teams and merchant trader teams — the object is to outsmart one another! Captain Hogeboom has a very pleasant surprise when a special family joins the summer fun. Con and Bridget Rearden continue as the main characters.