An inspiring story of Zheng Yi Sao, the real-life pirate queen who
took control of her life -- and the South China seas -- in the early
19th century.
The most powerful pirate in history was a woman who was born into
poverty in Guangzhou, China, in the late 1700s. When pirates attacked
her town and the captain took a liking to her, she saw a way out. Zheng
Yi Sao agreed to marry him only if she got an equal share of his
business. When her husband died six years later, she took command of the
fleet.
Over the next decade, the pirate queen built a fleet of over 1,800 ships
and 70,000 men. On land and sea, Zheng Yi Sao's power rivaled the
emperor himself. Time and again, her ships triumphed over the emperor's
ships.
When she was ready to retire, Zheng Yi Sao surrendered -- on her own
terms, of course. Even though there was a price on her head, she was
able to negotiate her freedom, living in peace and prosperity for the
rest of her days.
Zheng Yi Sao's powerful story is told in lyrical prose by award-winning
author Helaine Becker. Liz Wong's colorful, engaging illustrations
illuminate this inspiring woman in history.
An author's note provides historical context and outlines the challenges
of researching a figure about whom little is known.
Key Text Features
author's note
historical context
sources
Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language
Arts:
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.3
Describe how characters in a story respond to major events and
challenges.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.3
Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama,
drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., a character's thoughts,
words, or actions).
