STARBOARD EIGHT by Brian Casey

1976. When a violent incident proves the final straw for his parents, troubled teenager Jesse is sent away to join the Blue Water School. Here, youngsters in need of direction and guidance live and work aboard sailing ships in the Caribbean. Despite the exotic setting Jesse faces demanding physical, academic and personal challenges. Along with the colorful collection of fellow teens in 'starboard eight' he encounters The Bermuda Triangle, 'St Elmo's Fire', pirate treasure, a devastating hurricane and a first real romance. His voyage culminates with the American bicentennial celebrations in New York City and an overdue reconciliation with his parents. Based on the author's experiences, this vital adventure offers a powerful evocation of another time and place and a compelling exploration of familial and fraternal relationships.