MWSA Review
Despite its seemingly tongue-in-cheek title, Is Your Dad a Pirate? by Tara McClary Reeves is a touching and valuable resource for families. Beautifully illustrated, the book describes coping with a parent who has suffered life-altering injuries from both the child's and spouse's points of view. In addition, the book is well-crafted for both storytelling and family discussions.

One of the most vital attributes of this book is the author's use of simple language and illustrations to highlight the importance of family, faith, and love in these challenging situations. Reeves also honors caregivers–of all ages–by showing the vital and often unheralded role they play. Although written with the military family in mind, this book would be a treasured addition to the library of any family with young children facing similar circumstances.

Review by John Cathcart (March 2022)
 

Author's Synopsis

Her daddy went away to fight for our country. And he came home changed. What's a young family to do when a parent is injured? How might they respond to curiosity? In this tender account based on her childhood experiences, beloved author Tara McClary Reeves shares how her family adapted to the extensive physical losses her father, Marine Corps Lieutenant Clebe McClary, sustained. With warmth and humor, this book encourages children and spouses facing similar trials to cherish the gift of family. To hold on to faith. And to choose to be loving heroes on the home front. Is Your Dad a Pirate? will challenge your perspective and deepen your commitment to love.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 32