And now for something completely different..

In a recent expedition to the public library, my children have brought forth a gem. Of sorts.



Meet Backbeard the Pirate. That's right, Backbeard. It's a funny story and a welcome reprieve from the news of the day.

Backbeard was so hairy, it was sometimes tough to tell if there was a pirate underneath.
Backbeard was also the toughest, loudest, most unsanitary pirate ever. This made it hard for him to keep a parrot. Most quit after the first few days.

Written by Matthew McElligott, and illustrated by same, Backbeard and the Birthday Suit will hopefully be followed by others.