The Adventures of Piratess Tilly

by Elizabeth Lorayne, Karen Watson (Illustrations)

Written in the poetic form of haiku, you are invited to come adventuring with Piratess Tilly, her rescued best friend, a koala named Yuki, and her band of international orphaned brothers in this award-winning picture book. As budding naturalists, they are all too eager for their expedition to the Galapagos Islands! While documenting flora and fauna, they spot baby giant tortoises being kidnapped...by pirates! How do Tilly, Yuki and the brothers save the tortoises?

38 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2015

About the author

Elizabeth Lorayne is an award-winning author and publisher of children’s books. After the success of her series The Adventures of Piratess Tilly, whose heroine is a budding naturalist and the captain of her own ship, Elizabeth continues to produce books with themes of girl-empowerment, eco-consciousness, exploration, and science. She is an artist and mother, inspired by nature, history, and the rhythms of her surroundings. Elizabeth is a graduate of The New School in NYC and a current member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She resides in Newburyport, MA with her family.

Reviews

[Nicole]

Goodreads Review (By Nicole Blannchard)
An empowering, eco conscious classic in the making

The Adventures of Piratess Tilly is an extraordinary children’s book that blends poetic storytelling, visual artistry, and environmental awareness into a single, unforgettable journey. Elizabeth Lorayne has created a world where curiosity, compassion, and courage guide the way and it’s told entirely through elegant haiku, complemented by beautiful watercolor illustrations that capture the wonder of discovery.

Piratess Tilly herself is a remarkable heroine brave, kind, and endlessly curious. Accompanied by her rescued koala, Yuki, and a band of international orphaned brothers, she sets sail for the Galápagos Islands on a mission of exploration and learning. Along the way, she faces unexpected challenges including the dramatic rescue of baby giant tortoises kidnapped by pirates all while demonstrating empathy, leadership, and quick thinking.

What makes this book so special is its message: that adventure and stewardship of the planet can go hand in hand. The haiku form adds lyrical rhythm and mindfulness, while the vivid watercolor art immerses readers in nature’s beauty. This balance of art, poetry, and environmentalism makes The Adventures of Piratess Tilly perfect for classrooms, libraries, and families seeking stories that both entertain and inspire.

A must-read for anyone who believes children’s books should empower young minds especially girls to dream boldly, protect nature, and embrace the unknown.

Nicole Blanchard

[Jeani]

That this is written in haiku really sets it apart from other children's books. (Thank goodness it doesn't rhyme!) The illustrations are nice. I think any young child would enjoy this book.

[Charlotte]

Piratess Tilly has chutzpah, she has principles and a mission, and she's FUN! Written in haiku poetry format, this tale takes you on an adventure with Tilly and her friends that you'll read with children again and again, and find something new each time. I can't wait until the next book comes out, when Piratess Tilly explores the Galapagos! Illustrations by Karen Watson are amazing, and this book has won several awards.

[Karen Einstein]

A brilliant kids book written in haiku with captivating illustrations. Piratess Tilly crosses the seas, taking notes, Darwin style, as she sails along on her way to the Galapagos islands where she saves baby sea turtles from nasty pirates. Beautiful piece.