Review: "Compass South" by Hope Larson

In "Compass South" by Hope Larson, there are not many options for orphans in New York in the 1800's. So when Alexander and Cleopatra Dodge's father sets sail and doesn't return, they join the Black Hook Gang to try to make some money. When they are caught in the midst of a heist, they give up the name of their leader to gain their freedom and are sent to New Orleans. There they find an ad searching for missing twins, Sam and Jeremiah Kimball, who's wealthy grandfather is looking for them. Sam and Cleopatra decide to pose as the twins, but they are not the only ones! A race to Sn Francisco begins as the twins are separated and forced to partner with their rivals as they avoid the Black Hook Gang, the infamous Pirate Worley, and even panthers on a wild search for fortune. "Compass South" is a great read for fans of "Treasure Island." School Library Journal lists this fast-paced graphic novel as appropriate for readers in grades four to eight.

--Heather N., Eureka Hills