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Curse of the Blue Tattoo: Being an Account of the Misadventures of Jacky Faber, Midshipman and Fine Lady.
Meyer, L. A. (author).
June 2004. 384p. Harcourt, hardcover, $17 (0-15-205115-5). Grades 6-9.
REVIEW.
First published May 15, 2004 (Booklist).
Taking up where the original story of Bloody Jack (2002) left off, this early-nineteenth-century adventure story begins with Jacky Faber, no longer disguised as a ship’s boy, leaving the Dolphin and going to her new home, the Lawson Peabody School for Young Girls. There Mistress Pimm takes on the formidable task of transforming the indomitable scamp into a young lady. Good-hearted but spirited and unconventional, Jacky tries to learn, but finds it impossible to conform to an ideal of womanhood that does not include “lewd” exhibitions of singing and dancing, dressing in men’s clothing, consorting with drunkards and prostitutes, and using language as salty as any sailor’s. Though her boldness puts her in situations dangerous to her safety and her virtue, Jacky manages to bring the complete downfall of a detestable preacher and good fortune to her many friends. The characterizations are undeniably broad, but one of the riches of this entertaining novel is the large, Dickensian cast of colorfully named figures--e.g., the enigmatic theatrical duo Mr. Fennel and Mr. Bean. Happily, the book’s conclusion promises a sequel with Jacky at sea once more. — Carolyn Phelan
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