The Pirates Next Door
By Jonny Duddle
The Story
A rowdy pirate family moves into a dull seaside town to fix their ship, scandalizing the neighbors — until a girl named Matilda defies the gossip to befriend young pirate Jim Lad.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's ever been told to stay away from the new, different neighbors, this is a story about knowing better.
- Big idea: Don't judge your neighbors before you know them — and unlikely friendships can leave real treasure behind.
- Vibes: Swashbuckling, cheeky, and warmhearted, with a wink at small-town gossip.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy pirate stories and seaside settings
- are working on looking past first impressions
- like to root for an unlikely friendship
- respond well to stories with a satisfying, hopeful ending
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think the neighbors gossiped about the Jolley-Rogers before really getting to know them?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Matilda felt going against the grown-ups to be friends with Jim Lad?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone ever judged you — or have you judged someone else — before getting to know them?
- Imagination: If a pirate family moved in next door to you, what would you want to ask them first?
- Feelings & empathy: Why do you think Matilda was sad when the Jolley-Rogers sailed away, even though she found a pen pal?
