While fishing one day in his small rowboat, William Constable catches a glimpse of something unusual in the water. Standing to get a better look, the youngster loses his balance, hits his head on the edge of the boat, and falls unconscious into the water. So begins this exciting tale about two boys and a loveable sea monster named Chessie. Soon after the mishap, William tells his best friend, Tommy, about his encounters with Chessie, and every day the boys row down Heron Creek to play with her (bringing along her favorite snacks--tuna fish sandwiches and Oreo cookies). A cruel, greedy man sees them romping with their secret pet and plots to trap Chessie and sell her for big bucks to movie makers or scientists. The nighttime operation that William and Tommy undertake to save their friend will thrill readers young and old. Middle grades-ages 10-13.
Margaret Meacham is the award-winning author of fourteen novels for children and young adults, and a mystery novel set on the Chesapeake Bay. Her books include Oyster Moon which has recently been optioned for film by Green Films LLC, Secret of Heron Creek, Quiet! You’re Invisible, A Mid-Semester Night’s Dream, and A Fairy’s Guide to Understanding Humans. Her books are sold internationally, and two titles have been translated into French and German. She has written reviews, articles and short stories for numerous publications including Library Journal, Country Magazine, Successful Student Magazine, Maryland Magazine, Highlights for Children, Baltimore Magazine, and The Baltimore Sun. She is currently working on a mystery novel set on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Everyone likes stories about the Loch Ness Monster. This is an adorable story about two boys trying save the Chesapeake Bay Chessie from the cantankerous next door neighbor who wants to capture her for profit. The timing is good; the story is cute; and it brings back awesome memories from the early 90's. Ahh, life before area codes.
This is an enjoyable summer read about the Chesapeake Bay monster, Chessie. It's a short, easy read which would probably be good for third, fourth, and fifth graders. People who live near water will especially connect with this book since the main characters spend much of their time on a boat and on the shoreline. Recommended for Marylanders who like local stories.