"All men die, Taliesin. Some early, some after a long life. The Almighty gives us life only for a season. The ones who died were given their allotted days. It is to be hoped they spent them well."Join Taliesin and his friends, Svend, Aeden and Gilgas, as they seek thrills and treasure on board the Stormrider, a ship that seems to attract disaster like a magnet. Battling deadly storms, pirates, the dreaded Akoroka and much more, the teenage apprentices come to grips with the truth of their crew master's words... and, as they strive to spend their allotted days well and courageously, a surprise awaits them: a reward beyond their wildest dreams "This is a fast-paced adventure story, ostensibly for boys, but many girls would enjoy the action too Parents and teachers will appreciate the values that emerge through the tale of Taliesin, a lad seeking to find purpose and meaning in the grand adventure of life. His courage and tenacity help see enemies become allies. His ability to believe the best of others, his loyalty to his friends, his submission to authority and his self-discipline, while trusting in the One whose Kingdom is sovereign, bring great rewards."- Deryck and Nancy Thomas, editors of Bella Rae magazine and "Fighting for Our Daughters", City Women Toowoomba