<div><div>Thirteen-year-old Sam Witchall has always dreamed of being a sailor, but he never realized how dangerous and gruesome life at sea could be until he is pressed into service aboard HMS<i> Miranda</i>. Beginning his naval career as a "powder monkey"--assisting the gun crews on the warship--Sam learns the ropes of sailing and how to cope with enemies both foreign and onboard the <i>Miranda </i>herself.<br> <br>With enough battles, storms, and shipwrecks to thrill young fans of the Master and Commander series, this rousing historical adventure introduces a new generation to an exciting era, when a lowly powder monkey could grow up to be a hero.</div></div>