Pirate gold by Michael Salmon

ll. by Michael Salmon. Ford St Publishing, 2013. Paperback. ISBN 9781 9216 65691.
(Ages: 5-9) Parents and teachers around in the late 70's - mid 80's will recognise the illustrative style of Michael Salmon from the Alexander Bunyip show (and toys, boardgames, fabric etc). Salmon wrote over 160 books including Bobo and The Monster that ate Canberra.
The latest book from Salmon is a journey to find Captain Porker's missing treasure. At the beginning of the book we meet the various Piganeers, including Pigswill the cook and The Ships Rats. We also meet Admiral Horatio (Pirate Hunter) and Captain Fang (the Pirate Rival) before going off on a journey over land and sea. Who stole Captain Porker's treasure? Was it the Froggy Sailors? The Grandee Goats? Captain Porker's rival Captain Fang? The culprit (or culprits) will be a surprise, that's for sure.
The book also features a Piganeer photo album and a photocopiable colouring in page, to continue the joy of the story long after the book has been read. With its bright and detailed illustrations, this story is sure to appeal to readers who have moved beyond the picture book phase, but aren't too fond of chapter books just yet.
This would be a popular choice for 'free reading' in any classroom library.
Freya Lucas