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Lintang #1
Lintang and the Pirate Queen
Lintang dreams of escaping her island home and having adventures on the high seas. She gets her chance when she and her best friend, Bayani, face a deadly mythie and survive, attracting the attention of the infamous Captain Shafira. Lintang’s bravery earns her an invitation onto the ship of the pirate queen, who is on her way to hunt down a nest of vicious sirens.
But they’ve barely left the island when Lintang discovers that Bayani has risked his life to stow away. Worse, he won’t tell her why. Lintang must choose whether to be loyal to Captain Shafira and continue with her adventures, or be loyal to her best friend and lose everything she’s ever wanted.
But they’ve barely left the island when Lintang discovers that Bayani has risked his life to stow away. Worse, he won’t tell her why. Lintang must choose whether to be loyal to Captain Shafira and continue with her adventures, or be loyal to her best friend and lose everything she’s ever wanted.
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 31, 2017
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842 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
August 16, 2017
You know what? I've read this book a million times during its drafting process. I should totally be allowed to put it down as one of my books for the Goodreads challenge.
August 26, 2017
It's hard to describe how I felt reading this book. It's everything at once - an escape to fantasy, a close bond with characters, an adventure that is fictional as well as personal. This book is so easy to read and so imaginative and fun.
CHARACTERS
Lintang is wonderfully flawed, and brave and full of heart. The quiet and kind Bayani is a perfect counterbalance to her in their friendship. The crew are not only diverse in representation, but in a way that makes each character unique and highlights their charm with each other. The Pirate Queen is a great foil to Lintang's mother, as the crew to the village from which Lintang grew up.
In this book, our heroines/hero are allowed to be vulnerable AND brave AND flawed all at once. And we get to see them in their highest and lowest moments, and make mistakes , and do the right thing.
SETTING
The mythies (the sea guardian and the propheseeds may be my favourite things) are fascinating. The illustration are gorgeous (and placed in exactly the right place throughout the story for me to try and guess what happens next). LOVED the twists all the way through to the end.
Like Lintang, I am curious about the wider world. I liked the tantalising hints of wider world issues and tensions, and I'm interested in that world's greater search of meaning in their particular set of mythologies and attitudes towards mythies, life, death, and afterlife.
OVERALL
Tamara Moss writes skilfully in a way that makes you feel excitement, daring and heart from one moment to the next, while making it look easy. (The book is targeted at children after all.)
This book is like a cross between Moana and Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them, and with something else of its own substance and flavour. It stands uniquely on its own.
Reading this book brought back for me the joys of always discovering something new and familiar that comes from reading fiction but particularly a fantasy story.
CHARACTERS
Lintang is wonderfully flawed, and brave and full of heart. The quiet and kind Bayani is a perfect counterbalance to her in their friendship. The crew are not only diverse in representation, but in a way that makes each character unique and highlights their charm with each other. The Pirate Queen is a great foil to Lintang's mother, as the crew to the village from which Lintang grew up.
In this book, our heroines/hero are allowed to be vulnerable AND brave AND flawed all at once. And we get to see them in their highest and lowest moments, and make mistakes , and do the right thing.
SETTING
The mythies (the sea guardian and the propheseeds may be my favourite things) are fascinating. The illustration are gorgeous (and placed in exactly the right place throughout the story for me to try and guess what happens next). LOVED the twists all the way through to the end.
Like Lintang, I am curious about the wider world. I liked the tantalising hints of wider world issues and tensions, and I'm interested in that world's greater search of meaning in their particular set of mythologies and attitudes towards mythies, life, death, and afterlife.
OVERALL
Tamara Moss writes skilfully in a way that makes you feel excitement, daring and heart from one moment to the next, while making it look easy. (The book is targeted at children after all.)
This book is like a cross between Moana and Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them, and with something else of its own substance and flavour. It stands uniquely on its own.
Reading this book brought back for me the joys of always discovering something new and familiar that comes from reading fiction but particularly a fantasy story.
July 5, 2017
Having had the privilege of reading Tamara's previous works over the years, I went into Lintang with supremely high expectations. I was not disappointed. I think it is rare for a novel geared toward middle grade to appeal just as equally with an adult or teen (only a handful of books come to mind as examples - notably, the Harry Potter series), and Lintang was a brief and addicting read, leaving me anxiously awaiting the sequel, Lintang and the Forbidden Island.
The high quality of the writing, gripping plot, meticulous balance between adventure, mystery, and fantasy, and beautifully complex and fleshed out characters made this an engaging novel from the start that was hard to put down. The Mythie guidebook entries were also a great touch, I loved learning more about the creatures of the Lintang world (a world that will live in the back corner of your brain, to be revisited at your own leisure - even when you're supposed to be focusing in yoga!). But primarily, what it all boils down to is my love of the characters. From Lintang, to Bayani, to Pelita, to Avalon, to Dee, to Captain Shafira and more, they're all so so loveable and I just want to reach through the book and hang out with them for real. Or even just give them a hug.
Long story short, you'll laugh, you'll cry (twice if you're like me), you'll reread it over many years, and recommend it to all your nieces, nephews, and babysitting kids.
I'm so excited to see more of Tamara Moss in our bookshelves and bookstores in the future, and can't wait to see what else she has in store for us.
The high quality of the writing, gripping plot, meticulous balance between adventure, mystery, and fantasy, and beautifully complex and fleshed out characters made this an engaging novel from the start that was hard to put down. The Mythie guidebook entries were also a great touch, I loved learning more about the creatures of the Lintang world (a world that will live in the back corner of your brain, to be revisited at your own leisure - even when you're supposed to be focusing in yoga!). But primarily, what it all boils down to is my love of the characters. From Lintang, to Bayani, to Pelita, to Avalon, to Dee, to Captain Shafira and more, they're all so so loveable and I just want to reach through the book and hang out with them for real. Or even just give them a hug.
Long story short, you'll laugh, you'll cry (twice if you're like me), you'll reread it over many years, and recommend it to all your nieces, nephews, and babysitting kids.
I'm so excited to see more of Tamara Moss in our bookshelves and bookstores in the future, and can't wait to see what else she has in store for us.
December 4, 2019
Huge thank you to Raincoast for this ARC!
Lintang and the Pirate Queen is a wonderful fantasy romp starring a young and adventurous heroine who dreams of escaping her day-to-day life in hopes of sailing the high seas and battling mystical creatures. Sporting fantastic characters, a vivid world, and gripping storytelling, this middle grade fantasy is the complete package for even reader's who may be reluctant.
Lintang is such a fantastic heroine who is flawed, but spunky. She has a lot of energy, she's resourceful, and she's a fun character to follow around because she has just the right amount of innocence. Bayani, her best friend, is kind and quiet and his storyline is truly something special. All the characters in this story have strong will, they make mistakes (and learn from them). The writing is rich in adventure and whimsy, that its the kind of fantasy where you are whisked away and the world is eye-catching and visible.
Moss weaves a wonderful tale of hope, adventure, friendship, and trust. I think readers will fall in love with the cast of characters, and I look forward to sharing this wonderful book with a variety of readers. I also hope that the sequels come to North America because I couldn't put this book down!
Lintang and the Pirate Queen is a wonderful fantasy romp starring a young and adventurous heroine who dreams of escaping her day-to-day life in hopes of sailing the high seas and battling mystical creatures. Sporting fantastic characters, a vivid world, and gripping storytelling, this middle grade fantasy is the complete package for even reader's who may be reluctant.
Lintang is such a fantastic heroine who is flawed, but spunky. She has a lot of energy, she's resourceful, and she's a fun character to follow around because she has just the right amount of innocence. Bayani, her best friend, is kind and quiet and his storyline is truly something special. All the characters in this story have strong will, they make mistakes (and learn from them). The writing is rich in adventure and whimsy, that its the kind of fantasy where you are whisked away and the world is eye-catching and visible.
Moss weaves a wonderful tale of hope, adventure, friendship, and trust. I think readers will fall in love with the cast of characters, and I look forward to sharing this wonderful book with a variety of readers. I also hope that the sequels come to North America because I couldn't put this book down!
May 3, 2018
Lintang and the Pirate Queen is a book of epic quests, mystical creatures, and a brave young girl who dreams of exploring. It is the perfect book for middle-grade readers who enjoy a touch of magic mixed with plenty of adventure.
Lintang has always wanted to explore beyond the borders of her island home. At home, she can never seem to do the right thing and is constantly getting in trouble for her wild storytelling and epic sword fights. But when the infamous Captain Shafira saves Lintang’s life, Lintang is granted the opportunity to accompany the pirate queen on her voyage. When Lintang discovers her best friend, Bayani, has joined them as a stowaway, Lintang is determined to discover the secrets he is keeping from her, even if it means putting at risk her chance to fight sea monsters and sail the oceans.
Lintang and The Pirate Queen is a well-written book that is easy to sink into. Lintang and her trouble-creating ways bring much fun and mischief to the story. She is a strong character, eager to please but more often distracted by her wild imagination and fierce bravery. The other characters, from secretive and supportive Bayani to the legendary pirate queen and her vibrant and diverse crew, all bring much liveliness and humour to the story. Yet, touching on themes such as belonging, loyalty, acceptance, and honesty, Lintang and the Pirate Queen gently shares these important lessons that young readers will learn alongside Lintang.
The magic creatures Lintang faces on her journey are familiar and yet unique to this book’s imaginative world. Throughout the chapters are scattered pages and illustrations from the Mythie Guidebook, which helps to describe the wondrous beings that inhabit and sometimes threaten Lintang’s world.
Stowaways, sword fighting, dragons, pirates, great sea battles, sirens, and secrets - Lintang and the Pirate Queen has all the makings of an epic adventure. The sequel, Lintang and the Forbidden Island, promises to continue Lintang’s exciting quest.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
Lintang has always wanted to explore beyond the borders of her island home. At home, she can never seem to do the right thing and is constantly getting in trouble for her wild storytelling and epic sword fights. But when the infamous Captain Shafira saves Lintang’s life, Lintang is granted the opportunity to accompany the pirate queen on her voyage. When Lintang discovers her best friend, Bayani, has joined them as a stowaway, Lintang is determined to discover the secrets he is keeping from her, even if it means putting at risk her chance to fight sea monsters and sail the oceans.
Lintang and The Pirate Queen is a well-written book that is easy to sink into. Lintang and her trouble-creating ways bring much fun and mischief to the story. She is a strong character, eager to please but more often distracted by her wild imagination and fierce bravery. The other characters, from secretive and supportive Bayani to the legendary pirate queen and her vibrant and diverse crew, all bring much liveliness and humour to the story. Yet, touching on themes such as belonging, loyalty, acceptance, and honesty, Lintang and the Pirate Queen gently shares these important lessons that young readers will learn alongside Lintang.
The magic creatures Lintang faces on her journey are familiar and yet unique to this book’s imaginative world. Throughout the chapters are scattered pages and illustrations from the Mythie Guidebook, which helps to describe the wondrous beings that inhabit and sometimes threaten Lintang’s world.
Stowaways, sword fighting, dragons, pirates, great sea battles, sirens, and secrets - Lintang and the Pirate Queen has all the makings of an epic adventure. The sequel, Lintang and the Forbidden Island, promises to continue Lintang’s exciting quest.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
October 21, 2019
What more can you ask for? Fairies, dragons, mermaids, and pirates… this book has it all. In her small village, Lintang can only dream of adventures. When Captain Shafira offers her a chance to sail with her to deal with undesirable mermaids, Lintang is over the moon. This is an all-woman ship and males are not allowed because they might succumb to the call of the mermaids and put the crew at risk. But when Bayani, Lintang’s friend is discovered on the ship, he secures his passage to Zaiben by sharing his secret with Captain Shafira. That secret will change everything. What seems like undesirable before is now worth fighting for.
This middle-grade fantasy is filled with action and conflicts. This is a great start for this series. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
🙋🏼♀️ A big thank you to RainCoast Book for sending me an advanced copy of this entertaining YA Fantasy. Lintang and the Pirate Queen (Lintang #1) by Tamara Moss is now available at your favourite bookstore.
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February 10, 2020
An impress if uneven debut. This didn't quite work for me as an adult reader; there were a few too many convenient coincidences and unconvincing character motivations. But the plot moves at a breakneck pace, and if I were ten I think I would have been far too caught up in the adventure to have noticed. The worldbuilding is interesting enough that I'm tempted to continue the series just to see how it develops.
May 28, 2020
Good news: Could be the best tween/kid book I've read since Harry Potter. (TJ loved it too, and we're anxious for Ra and A to start reading it once they finish their current book so we can talk openly about all of the things.) Once the action started, it never really let off, as every chapter progressed the plot with heaps of changes of scene, new baddies and revelations about our characters and their world. Loved it and excited to read more!
Bad News: There are 2 more books in the series, but they're currently only available down under (AU/NZ), as this first installment was published late 2019 in the US. So either patience or international book sales are in our future.
Bad News: There are 2 more books in the series, but they're currently only available down under (AU/NZ), as this first installment was published late 2019 in the US. So either patience or international book sales are in our future.
November 1, 2020
I absolutely loved everything in this book, but especially the world. Tamara has created a gorgeous and magical world that feels so original, distinct, and real. I can’t wait for more of Lintang’s adventures. The story kept me hanging at every twist and turn and I never expected any of the reveals. The adventure was so much fun, I loved every minute!
January 8, 2023
Ok it was a cute little book. Definitely enjoyable
June 5, 2023
I didn't hate the book, but I also didn't love it. I think the story was kind of bland, and we didn't get much background on bayani. I think that they should have focused more on bayani. I also whould have lovd to see the story in bayani's point of view. Overall I would give it 4 stars.
August 19, 2022
I like lintang's character but I don't like the story.
October 8, 2017
From my www.bookcrossing.com journal entry:
This was a cracking good read. Suggested age range would be 10+.
With a diverse array of characters this novel will appeal to a wide audience. A strong female lead character, with mystery, adventure and self-discovery this was a wild-ride of a book.
The narrative chapters are interspersed with illustrated entries from The Mythie Guidebook. Illustrations by James Brouwer - the sirens and mermaids being my favourite.
These 'mythies' are not of the Disney-variety, but are more of the Ancient Greek eat-the-humans-and-sink-the-ship kind.
The clever inclusion of re-worked mythical creatures and modern-day events (fake news, foreign policies, international diplomatic relations and cultural differences) have made this a modern story - reminding me of Philip K. Dick.
Plot twists, sensational characters (Captain Shafira would give Captain Jack Sparrow a run for his money) and interweaving storylines (eg. Bayani's personal quest and Avalon's identity) make this a tight and exciting read. But, probably a great read-aloud to year 5 & 6 classes too.
The 'big event' in the story reminded me of The Shining by Stephen King, and I was relieved when author Tamara Moss was able to maintain the suspense and drama, without descending into bloody violence.
Lastly, the next book in the serious Lintang and the forbidden island is due out late January, 2018
This was a cracking good read. Suggested age range would be 10+.
With a diverse array of characters this novel will appeal to a wide audience. A strong female lead character, with mystery, adventure and self-discovery this was a wild-ride of a book.
The narrative chapters are interspersed with illustrated entries from The Mythie Guidebook. Illustrations by James Brouwer - the sirens and mermaids being my favourite.
These 'mythies' are not of the Disney-variety, but are more of the Ancient Greek eat-the-humans-and-sink-the-ship kind.
The clever inclusion of re-worked mythical creatures and modern-day events (fake news, foreign policies, international diplomatic relations and cultural differences) have made this a modern story - reminding me of Philip K. Dick.
Plot twists, sensational characters (Captain Shafira would give Captain Jack Sparrow a run for his money) and interweaving storylines (eg. Bayani's personal quest and Avalon's identity) make this a tight and exciting read. But, probably a great read-aloud to year 5 & 6 classes too.
The 'big event' in the story reminded me of The Shining by Stephen King, and I was relieved when author Tamara Moss was able to maintain the suspense and drama, without descending into bloody violence.
Lastly, the next book in the serious Lintang and the forbidden island is due out late January, 2018
May 18, 2023
It felt slow and bored me for a lot of it, despite pirates and mythical creatures. The end was more exciting, but there could’ve been more build up or something. It ends with a bit of a cliffhanger that is somewhat motivating for reading the next one. There’s also a character named Avalon who was a girl, but is now a boy? That whole part was confusing. Obviously the author is attempting to include a trans character, but it isn’t explained within the context of the magical world she’s created where pirates are goddesses and people transform into monsters and pixies transform into kids. Avalon is a boy, but someone says he’s a girl and has dresses from before? But the siren calls works on him, so he’s a boy? But all the characters are something more/magical so it feels like within that context there needs to be an explanation. Was he transformed too, or is he the author’s representation of the LGBTQ community? Either way, the plot was a bust.
July 9, 2017
I received an Advance Reading Copy of this book.
This is another great adventure story for kids at 10+ It has an exciting female lead with a strong female mentor that will appeal to girls looking for books that put them in front and have them going on these great adventures.
Lintang does not want to live in her village anymore. She wants to explore and live her life. When the great Captain Sharifa appears in her village, Lintang wants more than anything to meet her and be picked to go on the ship to lead them out of danger. Lucky for Lintang, her best friend Bayani sneaks on board or things could have ended so differently.
With an extremely diverse crew on board the ship, there is definatly room for some interesting adventures and clashes!
This is another great adventure story for kids at 10+ It has an exciting female lead with a strong female mentor that will appeal to girls looking for books that put them in front and have them going on these great adventures.
Lintang does not want to live in her village anymore. She wants to explore and live her life. When the great Captain Sharifa appears in her village, Lintang wants more than anything to meet her and be picked to go on the ship to lead them out of danger. Lucky for Lintang, her best friend Bayani sneaks on board or things could have ended so differently.
With an extremely diverse crew on board the ship, there is definatly room for some interesting adventures and clashes!
November 5, 2018
Originally I gave this two stars as I couldn’t initially finish it, but now that I’ve forced myself to do so, I’m lowering it to 1 star.
The writing style was just not for me, I didn’t enjoy anything about the characters and their development nor the over arching plot. I think this book was just too juvenile for me as a reader, I like youth / young adult but this is too far into the young section for me to connect.
Many will see the authors plan and love it but for me, it was just awful to read.
The writing style was just not for me, I didn’t enjoy anything about the characters and their development nor the over arching plot. I think this book was just too juvenile for me as a reader, I like youth / young adult but this is too far into the young section for me to connect.
Many will see the authors plan and love it but for me, it was just awful to read.
March 4, 2022
Hey it was fun, it was cool, and I love pirates.
April 21, 2020
Getting into trouble is second nature for Lintang. It’s not her intent; it just happens. The cause this time is Pelita the troublesome pixie. If not for her interference, Lintang would never have started the fire. If not for the fire, her mother would have the necessary ingredients to prepare the dish for the banquet. But when asked, Lintang blames the fire on a pirate. She doesn’t mean for the lie to slip out, but really, who’s going to believe a pixie did it?
And her punishment is super severe. She may not attend the banquet. She may not meet Captain Shafira of Allay. Her idol! The woman who can take her away from this boring island. The pirate who can take Lintang on adventure. It’s a chance she just can’t miss, which leads Lintang deeper into trouble. If she can replace the ingredient her mother needs, then her mother will allow her to attend the banquet, and she’ll finally meet Captain Shafira.
To assist her in this quest, she enlists the help of her best (and only) friend, Bayani. They are both twelve, but that’s where the similarities end. He’s responsible, but since being ill, he’s also secretive. He loves mythies, names them, even talks to them as if they are people. And that pesky Pelita is always hanging around him. Bayani will initially say no to her plan, but Lintang always gets him to do her bidding.
Of course, things don’t quite go as planned. A flowery scent and a clacking noise warn of danger . . . very bad danger. Somehow, she figures out how to get them out of this dilemma, but the malam rasha or night terror isn’t about to allow its prey to escape. She and Bayani have to warn the villagers. But who will believe them? After all, she is a gifted storyteller like her grandfather. Instead of helping the villagers, she angers them and her mother threatens her with dire consequences. Until a beautiful woman backs up Lintang’s story and promises to rid them of the malam rasha for a price.
Lintang is awestruck that she not only meets her idol, but that Captain Shafira also believes her. Now, if only she can convince the pirate captain to take her aboard the pirate ship when she leaves. Wishes, however, often come true, but not in the way one expects.
This the first entry in a new fantasy series for young readers. It includes an eclectic group of female pirates, including one who prefers to dress as a boy, and a host of mythical creatures, such as mermaids, a dragon, a sea serpent, and the harvester or Goddess of Death. To assist readers in understanding these beasties, Moss scatters pages from The Mythie Guidebook throughout the story that explain what they eat, where they live, how they behave, and just how dangerous they are. Although this adventure takes place in a fantasy world, it has Asian elements woven into the narrative. Captain Sharif is a larger-than-life pirate who may remind readers of Zheng Yi Sao, and Lintang is an amazing young girl with whom readers will readily identify. Lintang and the Pirate Queen is a tale of friendship, trust, and obedience that is spiced with danger, infection, and wondrous ships and places. It is an adventure that pirates young and old will enjoy, and when it ends, they will eagerly await the next journey of Lintang, the Pirate Queen, and their friends.
And her punishment is super severe. She may not attend the banquet. She may not meet Captain Shafira of Allay. Her idol! The woman who can take her away from this boring island. The pirate who can take Lintang on adventure. It’s a chance she just can’t miss, which leads Lintang deeper into trouble. If she can replace the ingredient her mother needs, then her mother will allow her to attend the banquet, and she’ll finally meet Captain Shafira.
To assist her in this quest, she enlists the help of her best (and only) friend, Bayani. They are both twelve, but that’s where the similarities end. He’s responsible, but since being ill, he’s also secretive. He loves mythies, names them, even talks to them as if they are people. And that pesky Pelita is always hanging around him. Bayani will initially say no to her plan, but Lintang always gets him to do her bidding.
Of course, things don’t quite go as planned. A flowery scent and a clacking noise warn of danger . . . very bad danger. Somehow, she figures out how to get them out of this dilemma, but the malam rasha or night terror isn’t about to allow its prey to escape. She and Bayani have to warn the villagers. But who will believe them? After all, she is a gifted storyteller like her grandfather. Instead of helping the villagers, she angers them and her mother threatens her with dire consequences. Until a beautiful woman backs up Lintang’s story and promises to rid them of the malam rasha for a price.
Lintang is awestruck that she not only meets her idol, but that Captain Shafira also believes her. Now, if only she can convince the pirate captain to take her aboard the pirate ship when she leaves. Wishes, however, often come true, but not in the way one expects.
This the first entry in a new fantasy series for young readers. It includes an eclectic group of female pirates, including one who prefers to dress as a boy, and a host of mythical creatures, such as mermaids, a dragon, a sea serpent, and the harvester or Goddess of Death. To assist readers in understanding these beasties, Moss scatters pages from The Mythie Guidebook throughout the story that explain what they eat, where they live, how they behave, and just how dangerous they are. Although this adventure takes place in a fantasy world, it has Asian elements woven into the narrative. Captain Sharif is a larger-than-life pirate who may remind readers of Zheng Yi Sao, and Lintang is an amazing young girl with whom readers will readily identify. Lintang and the Pirate Queen is a tale of friendship, trust, and obedience that is spiced with danger, infection, and wondrous ships and places. It is an adventure that pirates young and old will enjoy, and when it ends, they will eagerly await the next journey of Lintang, the Pirate Queen, and their friends.
October 10, 2019
Lintang and the Pirate Queen is a swashbuckling, middle grades adventure and the first book in a new series by Tamara Moss. Lintang dreams of getting away from her small island village and traveling the world. She dreads the prospect of becoming a homemaker, so when the Pirate Queen herself arrives in Desa, Lintang jumps at the opportunity to join her. Captain Shafira is impressed by Lintang’s bravery in the face of the dreaded malam rasha mythie and invites Lintang to join her ship as they venture to hunt down a vicious nest of sirens. Shortly after leaving port, Lintang discovers that her best friend, Bayani, has stowed away on the ship in hope of reaching the United Regions’ capital city though he won’t tell Lintang why he needs to go there. Along the journey, Lintang must prove her loyalty and bravery to Captain Shafira. At the same time though, she risks losing everything she’s every wanted as she must decide whether to follow orders and be loyal to Captain Shafira or to disobey her orders and be loyal to Bayani.
There are so many things I love about this book that I don’t know where to start. The plot line is engaging and action-packed. Lintang not only has several external conflicts, but also an ongoing internal conflict that propels the story forward. This book is also fall of strong female characters. I love that both pirate ships have all-women crews (with the exception of one crew member and Bayani on the Winda). The world building is incredible. Moss has created not only her own world, but it’s origin story, cultural belief system. Lintang’s story is punctuated by entries from the Mythies Guidebook which provides the reader with a deeper understanding of the world. The message about appearances not always being what they seem is also incredibly important and shines through. I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to share it with my students.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children’s Group for an advance copy of this book. It will be released on October 15th. All opinions are my own.
There are so many things I love about this book that I don’t know where to start. The plot line is engaging and action-packed. Lintang not only has several external conflicts, but also an ongoing internal conflict that propels the story forward. This book is also fall of strong female characters. I love that both pirate ships have all-women crews (with the exception of one crew member and Bayani on the Winda). The world building is incredible. Moss has created not only her own world, but it’s origin story, cultural belief system. Lintang’s story is punctuated by entries from the Mythies Guidebook which provides the reader with a deeper understanding of the world. The message about appearances not always being what they seem is also incredibly important and shines through. I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to share it with my students.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children’s Group for an advance copy of this book. It will be released on October 15th. All opinions are my own.
March 24, 2022
🐉❤️🏴☠️💚 LINTANG AND THE PIRATE QUEEN💚 🏴☠️❤️🐉
2.5 Stars
Lintang yearns for adventure, and to explore the world outside of her island. Pirate Shafira, a famed pirate sometimes dubbed by the name "The Pirate Queen, visits Lintang's village. The pirates need a girl from the village every time they pass a certain part of the sea. The people of Lintang's village have scales on the back of their neck which means they are Nyasamdra people living in her territory. Lintang seizes the opportunity, and journeys with Pirate Shafira to hunt sirens. But when Bayani Lintang's best friend stows away on the ship, she must choose between betraying her friend; or her captain. And Bayani is hiding something from her; a dangerous secret that could change their world altogether.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐚. One thing about this book, was that I really wanted more action. Although this book does have action; it didn't have as much as I wanted and more scenes between the crew. Although it got boring at times, it did strengthen the bond, and diversity of Captain Shafira's crew. Some characters I found especially interesting were Dee (who deals with loss and grief, and uses her imagination to carve out a world for her), Avalon (who struggles with his identity), and Bayani (Seriously what secret are you hiding)! I did like the creatures put into this world. Although I did think that Lintang was a bit too eager to leave everything behind (it could have been at least a few more chapters to explore her life on the island). The little sections of a guide about mythical creatures put into this book were amazing. So was the gods, and the whole reproduction/class/magical power/ about the creatures. While I enjoyed the first half of the book, around the ending, I felt myself not really into this book. Bayani and Lintang's friendship is implied to be strong, and shown sometimes, but I wished it was explored more. The plot twists were okay.
🆗PLOT
🆗PLOT TWISTS
🆗CHARACTERS
2.5 Stars
Lintang yearns for adventure, and to explore the world outside of her island. Pirate Shafira, a famed pirate sometimes dubbed by the name "The Pirate Queen, visits Lintang's village. The pirates need a girl from the village every time they pass a certain part of the sea. The people of Lintang's village have scales on the back of their neck which means they are Nyasamdra people living in her territory. Lintang seizes the opportunity, and journeys with Pirate Shafira to hunt sirens. But when Bayani Lintang's best friend stows away on the ship, she must choose between betraying her friend; or her captain. And Bayani is hiding something from her; a dangerous secret that could change their world altogether.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐚. One thing about this book, was that I really wanted more action. Although this book does have action; it didn't have as much as I wanted and more scenes between the crew. Although it got boring at times, it did strengthen the bond, and diversity of Captain Shafira's crew. Some characters I found especially interesting were Dee (who deals with loss and grief, and uses her imagination to carve out a world for her), Avalon (who struggles with his identity), and Bayani (Seriously what secret are you hiding)! I did like the creatures put into this world. Although I did think that Lintang was a bit too eager to leave everything behind (it could have been at least a few more chapters to explore her life on the island). The little sections of a guide about mythical creatures put into this book were amazing. So was the gods, and the whole reproduction/class/magical power/ about the creatures. While I enjoyed the first half of the book, around the ending, I felt myself not really into this book. Bayani and Lintang's friendship is implied to be strong, and shown sometimes, but I wished it was explored more. The plot twists were okay.
🆗PLOT
🆗PLOT TWISTS
🆗CHARACTERS
December 6, 2019
Series Info/Source: This is the first book in the Lintang series. I got an ARC of this book from Amazon Vine to review.
Story (4/5): This was a well done story with a lot of adventure. Lintang desperately wants to leave her home island and join Captain Shafira on her ship. When Lintang gets her wish, she ends up knee deep in the mythology of her world and the mystery behind mythies and why they appeared. This is a fun story that takes place mostly on a pirate ship. There is a lot of adventure and a mystery that is solved.
Characters (4/5): The characters were decent and fairly engaging. Lintang comes off as overly rash at times. Some of the crew on Captain Shafira’s ship are a bit over-characterized and because of the number of crew these characters aren’t filled out very well. This is aimed at middle grade readers and I think both Lintang and Bayani will appeal more to kids than adults.
Setting (5/5): This is set in an interesting fantasy world where a massive event resulted in the appearance of dangerous mythological creatures called “mythies”. The world building is very well done and excellent background is provided to really make this world come alive for the reader.
Writing Style (4/5): The writing style was easy to read and engaging. Between every few chapters there is a small section that describes a mythie and that mythie’s characteristics. This is written at an easier reading level and is definitely appropriate for middle grade aged readers.
Summary (4/5): Overall this was a solid middle grade read full of adventure, some mystery, and set in an intriguing and well thought-out world. I read this out loud with my 13 year old son and we both enjoyed it. This is aimed at middle grade readers and I think that age group will enjoy this more than adults, the language and plot and is fairly simple throughout.
Story (4/5): This was a well done story with a lot of adventure. Lintang desperately wants to leave her home island and join Captain Shafira on her ship. When Lintang gets her wish, she ends up knee deep in the mythology of her world and the mystery behind mythies and why they appeared. This is a fun story that takes place mostly on a pirate ship. There is a lot of adventure and a mystery that is solved.
Characters (4/5): The characters were decent and fairly engaging. Lintang comes off as overly rash at times. Some of the crew on Captain Shafira’s ship are a bit over-characterized and because of the number of crew these characters aren’t filled out very well. This is aimed at middle grade readers and I think both Lintang and Bayani will appeal more to kids than adults.
Setting (5/5): This is set in an interesting fantasy world where a massive event resulted in the appearance of dangerous mythological creatures called “mythies”. The world building is very well done and excellent background is provided to really make this world come alive for the reader.
Writing Style (4/5): The writing style was easy to read and engaging. Between every few chapters there is a small section that describes a mythie and that mythie’s characteristics. This is written at an easier reading level and is definitely appropriate for middle grade aged readers.
Summary (4/5): Overall this was a solid middle grade read full of adventure, some mystery, and set in an intriguing and well thought-out world. I read this out loud with my 13 year old son and we both enjoyed it. This is aimed at middle grade readers and I think that age group will enjoy this more than adults, the language and plot and is fairly simple throughout.
April 6, 2020
Lintang is born for adventure. So when the much-feared Pirate Queen known as Captain Shafira visits her small island community and selects Lintang to accompany her crew, she is beyond thrilled. Shafira needs an Islander to sail her ship safely past Nyasamdra, the powerful sea monster who destroys all vessels, unless one of "her children," the Islanders, is aboard. So despite her mother's protests, Lintang packs her few belongings and joins the all-women crew, eager to fight sea monsters and explore the world. But then she discovers that her best friend, Bayani, has stoyed away in secret. Lintang is desperate to prove herself a loyal member of Shafira's crew, but that would mean betraying her best friend. At the same time, Lintang wonders if Bayani is being true to her - he seems to be holding back secrets, including why he chose to sneak aboard. Lintang suspects it has something to do with mythies; Bayani seems to have a connection with these magical creatures that most people would regard as pests or monsters. As she wonders about her friend's secrets, Lintang's adventure brings her face-to-face with dangerous creatures, the motley pirate crew, and eventually, information that may change the world forever...
What an exciting adventure story! This book begins with familiar motifs - a gutsy girl, a rough-but-lovable pirate crew, fairies and mermaids - but really surprised me as the mystery is developed and eventually revealed. Interesting, multicultural world-building including religion, language, and politics deepen the reading experience even further. Wonderful choice for young readers who like loads of action and adventure - and a twist! - in their fantasy tales.
What an exciting adventure story! This book begins with familiar motifs - a gutsy girl, a rough-but-lovable pirate crew, fairies and mermaids - but really surprised me as the mystery is developed and eventually revealed. Interesting, multicultural world-building including religion, language, and politics deepen the reading experience even further. Wonderful choice for young readers who like loads of action and adventure - and a twist! - in their fantasy tales.
February 26, 2020
Issues I had: A little slow getting to the adventure part of the book.
I don't feel the supposed connection Lintang's mom expressed when Lintang was about to set off with the pirate queen.
The inclusion of the really bad mythie who fought off the really bad siren didn't add to the story for me. I would've been happier without that revelation.
Other than those few issues, I was drawn into this world. I LOVE the pirate queen's crew, each woman with her own talents and quirks and way of relating to Lintang as they welcome her aboard. I totally understand Lintang's girl crush on the pirate queen who is just so strong and wonderful that of course you never want to leave her ship.
The in between chapters with the descriptions of the mythies are good, especially the "Did you know?" portions of the guidebook which made me laugh. And once I figured out that each entry was a set up for something in the following chapter, that helped to grow my anticipation.
And although I especially loved all the female crew members, Bayani is also a great character with his steadfast devotion to Lintang and her reliance on him. But like Lintang, I am frustrated with his secrets and want to know what else is going on with him!
I don't feel the supposed connection Lintang's mom expressed when Lintang was about to set off with the pirate queen.
The inclusion of the really bad mythie who fought off the really bad siren didn't add to the story for me. I would've been happier without that revelation.
Other than those few issues, I was drawn into this world. I LOVE the pirate queen's crew, each woman with her own talents and quirks and way of relating to Lintang as they welcome her aboard. I totally understand Lintang's girl crush on the pirate queen who is just so strong and wonderful that of course you never want to leave her ship.
The in between chapters with the descriptions of the mythies are good, especially the "Did you know?" portions of the guidebook which made me laugh. And once I figured out that each entry was a set up for something in the following chapter, that helped to grow my anticipation.
And although I especially loved all the female crew members, Bayani is also a great character with his steadfast devotion to Lintang and her reliance on him. But like Lintang, I am frustrated with his secrets and want to know what else is going on with him!
December 17, 2019
Tamara Moss has set the scene for a potentially original and adventurous fantasy series. Always a fan of non-Euro-centric fantasy, I believe Ms. Moss has created a world that is reminiscent of the Pacific Islands, China and Indonesia. She also presents a range of female characters -- some more believable than others -- but all with stories to tell. The protagonist of the title is an interesting mix of independent adventurer and sentimentally loyal companion. I wouldn't exactly call her lovable -- she has quite a bit of trouble knowing when to speak up and when to hold her cards close -- but I can see the author laying the hints of a more interesting character to develop. Lintang is only fourteen, and has never been away from her island home. Chafing under the expectation that she will become a traditional woman of her island culture, she is both stunned and ecstatic when her heroine, Shafira the Pirate Queen picks her to be a crew member. There is also an interesting subplot with her best friend Bayani who is QUITE capable of keeping secrets. While I found the system of magic in this world hard to follow, and would like to see more development of her fantasy world's cultures and languages, I believe that Tamara Moss is carefully revealing a story with heart and complexity. The next book will be on my watch list.
August 1, 2017
Lintang is a lively, curious and headstrong character who has a knack for always causing trouble, even though she has good intentions. She lives on the safe island of Desa which is protected by a sea monster although little creatures called mythies give rise to minor disturbances. The addition of Mythie guidebook entries describing the nature of the creatures is very helpful in understanding their particular mischief. Lintang feels trapped by the convention of her island and yearns for pirate adventures. She gets this opportunity when she is brought to the attention of the visiting and famous Captain Shafira. When her best friend Bayani, who is hiding a deep secret, stows away she is torn between her loyalty to the Captain and loyalty to her friend. This novel is full of humour, adventure and action and will appeal to both boys and girls. Tamara Ross has created an exciting new fantasy world on the seas and her characters are diverse and strong and we are looking forward to more adventures with Lintang in the future.
February 27, 2025
One of those books I wanted to like but really didn’t.
Some strong conceptual things— the lore, the fact that bc of the siren’s effect on men, all female hunting crews are common, the mythie twist… cool stuff! But the execution wasn’t the best. And I was particularly annoyed by Lintang’s character.
I really wanted to root for her, but she didn’t have a ton of redeeming qualities. I was constantly annoyed by her carelessness and selfishness. Those flaws would have been interesting to overcome were she balanced, but I didn’t feel like she was.
I was also so confused by how lenient Captain Shafira was with Lintang! This grown a** pirate queen has enough on her plate— why did she give up this special necklace for Lintang, then give Lintang 10 million chances after every mistake?
All in all, I wanted so badly to like it, but again, didn’t :(
Some strong conceptual things— the lore, the fact that bc of the siren’s effect on men, all female hunting crews are common, the mythie twist… cool stuff! But the execution wasn’t the best. And I was particularly annoyed by Lintang’s character.
I really wanted to root for her, but she didn’t have a ton of redeeming qualities. I was constantly annoyed by her carelessness and selfishness. Those flaws would have been interesting to overcome were she balanced, but I didn’t feel like she was.
I was also so confused by how lenient Captain Shafira was with Lintang! This grown a** pirate queen has enough on her plate— why did she give up this special necklace for Lintang, then give Lintang 10 million chances after every mistake?
All in all, I wanted so badly to like it, but again, didn’t :(
September 15, 2019
This Australian import features fierce women of all sizes and colors. Lintang hates the confines and the rules of the traditional island she lives on. She feels that she can never be good enough for her mother and dreams of the day she can run away to sail with the Pirate Queen. When Captain Shafira, the actual Pirate Queen, shows up on her island with her all female crew, Lintang does everything in her power to get the captain to take her with when she leaves. Even on the ship she finds that she must prove herself over and over again, as they battle a variety of magical creatures on the way to their final destination. Full of magic and adventure, friendship and sacrifice, readers will not want to put this down! Recommended for grades 4 & up.
ARC provided by publisher
ARC provided by publisher
November 12, 2019
Lintang and the Pirate Queen was a great time! I actually really liked Lintang (even if she did get on my nerves a few times) and I loved Bayani. All of the older/adult characters were fantastic (except Eire, who I'm pretty sure we're not supposed to like and will probably become a villain at some point), and the setting was super cool. I would absolutely be happy to recommend this to kids and to people who like middle grade books, but I don't think it has the crossover/lasting power of some middle grade books. That's not necessarily a bad thing though, and I had a great time with this book and probably would have loved it when I was younger as well.
Basically, it's Moana with pirates.
Basically, it's Moana with pirates.
May 17, 2019
Lintang lives on the Twin Islands along with her best friend Biryani. However, she craves adventure and excitement. When the pirate queen, comes to their island - helping them battle a flesh-eating mythie - and wants to take Lintang away with her, she is ecstatic. Her mother? Less so... because Pirate Queen Shafira has a bad reputation, and she (mom) will miss her trouble-making, independent daughter. Needless to say, Lintang sets off with her any. Much action and adventure ensue. Plot is fairly predictable, but it is fun and engaging. I'd read the sequel and will put in my middle school library without hesitation.
May 17, 2021
I think I am starting to find my niche for MG books. Adored this one and fear it might be the only one released in the United States. The world is one I want to go to, with a beautiful setting filled with mythical creatures. The characters are likable and the two main children, Lintang and Bayani, play well off each other. One thing I appreciate is there is an adult presence AND THEY ARE DECENT ADULTS ACTING AS MENTORS! Misguided adults as well, sure, but there are decent adults guiding things along. (This can bother me in MG; when the kids are just running around causing havoc unsupervised unless there is a good reason.)
Also, there is some good rep in here! Woo!
Also, there is some good rep in here! Woo!
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