Captain Sunshine

This illustrated novel for young readers is the first in a new four-book series set aboard the good ship Sunshine.

The Sunshine is the most celebrated cruise ship in the bay, famous for its luxury and entertainment. Young Bella is delighted when – all of a sudden – she is called up to take on the captaincy of the cruiser only hours before she is due to set sail. It appears that some sort of problem has left the ship short-staffed, but Bella is brave enough not to let that put her off.

Readers will love diving straight into the action alongside Bella as she helms such a lucrative vessel, but there is no time to explain, as Bella has to swiftly embark on a whirlwind tour and meet her new crew.

Bella’s credentials as a high-class captain soon become clear, as she takes a no-nonsense approach to tackling problems and leads her new team with a perpetual positivity. Most impressive is how she always puts passengers first, attending to their needs personally and showing them that nothing is too much trouble.

Things are not all plain-sailing, though, and Bella soon learns that the mystery behind the sudden departure of the previous Captain and half the crew has implications for their current journey. The reputation of the Sunshine is on the line! Bella must draw upon all of her resources, including all of her friends, to overcome the threats to the Sunshine’s voyage, and the story’s third act becomes a thrilling tale of teamwork in the face of adversity.

As a series opener, Captain Sunshine richly develops a wonderful world, introducing readers to a delightful ensemble of characters; everything from singing capybaras to grumpy raccoons and cheerful beetles. Children will enjoy meeting all of the animals – all of whom are beautifully captured by Milway’s expressive illustrations – giving young readers plenty of time to get to know and love this charming crew.

While it swaps frantic action for a beautifully paced, heartwarming voyage, Captain Sunshine serves as a wonderfully tranquil, gentle cruise companion that readers will thoroughly enjoy.

Read our Captain Sunshine Q&A interview with Alex Milway.