hijacking of ships

Tells the dramatic life-and-death tale of Vermont native, Richard Phillips, Captain of the Maersk Alabama (a U.S. flagged cargo ship) who, in April of 2009, was held captive by pirates in a tiny lifeboat off Somalia's anarchic, gun-plagued shores.

Examines piracy on the high seas providing readers with insight into the past and its many legacies. Sidebars and time lines also offer a wealth of additional information as well as provide launching points for further discussion and study.

Presents a diverse selection of primary sources representing all sides of the debate in question about modern-day piracy.