Roger, the Jolly Pirate
By Brett Helquist
The Story
A pirate so bad at pirating that his crewmates keep shooing him away gets one jolly idea in the middle of a battle — and it just might change pirating forever.
Why It's Special
For the kid who feels like they're always a step behind the group, this is a story about the one who finally finds his moment.
- Big idea: Being different from everyone else doesn't mean you have nothing to offer — sometimes it means you're about to offer something new.
- Vibes: Swashbuckling, warm, and funny, with a triumphant streak underneath the humor.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy pirate ships and high-seas battles
- are working on believing in their own ideas
- like to root for the underdog
- respond well to stories with humor and heart
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think the other pirates kept sending Roger away?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Roger felt every time he was left out of the real pirating?
- Imagination: What jolly idea do you think Roger came up with during the battle?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever felt like Roger, waiting for your chance to show what you can do?
- Creative thinking: If you were a pirate, what would you want to be known for?













