Powder Monkey
The Adventures of Sam Witchall
(Author) Paul DowswellSam is desperate to leave his sleepy Norfolk village and see the world. He seizes the chance to join a merchant ship but soon discovers that a life at sea is harsh and often short, especially when his ship is attacked by a French privateer. About to be boarded, they fear all is lost, but the privateers are driven off by the appearance of a Royal Navy ship. Sam's relief is short-lived. Soon after, another Navy ship sends over a press gang, and he is forced to join the frigate Miranda. War with France and Spain is raging and Sam is caught in the middle with a dangerous job as a powder monkey in the company of a brutal crew. An amazingly well-researched adventure giving a glimpse of one boy's incredible life at sea.
Paul Dowswell
Paul Dowswell is a British author known for his historical fiction novel "Ausländer," which explores the life of a German boy caught in the chaos of World War II. His literary style combines meticulous research with vivid storytelling, creating powerful narratives that illuminate the human experience during tumultuous times. Dowswell's contributions to literature include shedding light on lesser-known aspects of history and engaging readers with compelling characters and richly detailed settings.