The Value of Boldness: The Story of Captain Cook

In this installment of the ValueTales series, Ann Donegan Johnson teaches us the value of boldness in the life of James Cook (1723-1779). The book tells us about James Cook, a young English boy who dreamed of growing up and going to see on a large sailing ship. He wanted to go to parts of the world that his country did not know much about and bring back news, stories and trade goods. James worked for a local ship owner for many years before he had learned enough to go to sea. He was such a good navigator that he was chosen to lead a scientific expedition to Tahiti. On his most famous voyage, Captain Cook took his ship, the Endeavor, all the way around the world. It took nearly three years! Like other books in the ValueTales series, this book uses a real-life person to exemplify an important value. It is suitable for reading by children in the later elementary school grades. A "Historical Facts" section at the book's end summarizes Cook's life in a single-page bio form suitable for adults. Closing quote: "Whatever your dream is, you will stand a better chance of making it come true if, like James Cook, you face life with a bold spirit--if you are always ready to study and learn new things, to try a different way, to seek out opportunities instead of waiting for them to come to you. And if you do that, whether your dreams come true or not, you will live a fuller, more exciting and happier life." (p. 62)