Christopher Hawkins and His Daring Escapes
Young Readers Edition
By Jeanne Brownlee Becijos | For grades 4–9
Christopher's tale of survival and patriotism will resonate with young readers who love adventure, history, and stories of resilience.
Christopher's thrilling escapes lead him through New York City, Long Island, and Rhode Island. This tale of survival is adapted and expanded from the author's great-great-great-great-grandfather's oft-quoted memoir, The Adventures of Christopher Hawkins.
This Young Readers Edition has a new cover tailored for readers grades 4–9. The text remains the same, and is still suitable for ages 10 to adult.
“Anyone wishing to view the American Revolution, colonial life, and privateering from a child's perspective will find this a gripping tale intertwined with historical details that enrich the setting. Although written for younger readers, adults will enjoy this adventure too.”
—Cindy Vallar, Thistles & Pirates website
Reader Reviews
“This one I will definitely add to my recommendations list! It has action, and adventure that seems never ending. It seems he looks for trouble or maybe it just finds him. He is a very resourceful young man that seems to have luck with him. I love historical fiction! This will be a new one to add to my favorites list!”
— Jane S., Librarian ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Will definitely be recommending this book to readers for the upcoming 250th celebration.”
— Savannah M., Librarian ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Audiobook
Christopher Hawkins and His Daring Escapes
Narrator: Beverly Berwick
Audiobook available through Amazon's Audible, Kobo, Spotify, Apple Books, Everand, and other distributors.
“Narrator Beverly Berwick captures the spirit of this historic thriller, skillfully portraying the youthful and adult voices. Listeners will delight in the fast-paced and suspenseful tale of the daring hero. The narrator's lively delivery ensures that Christopher's dangerous adventures resonate with both heart and high-octane suspense.”
— Ron James, Reviewer
Chapter One Audio Sample
A Thrilling Revolutionary War Novel
A true story of a young sailor during the American Revolution for readers of all ages
The Revolutionary War is raging, and 12-year-old Christopher Hawkins runs away to follow his dream of being a sailor and a patriot. During his first sea adventure, the British capture his ship. Quick-witted Christopher escapes at his first opportunity.
At 17, Christopher joins another American privateer ship but five days later is captured again by the British. This time, he is delivered to the notorious British ship HMS Jersey, the war's deadliest prison. Armed with only courage, cunning, and a sense of humor, Christopher Hawkins will face death unless he can escape from his British captors twice more.
Editorial Reviews
“Christopher Hawkins and His Daring Escapes is a story of grit, determination, courage, and the indomitable will to survive.”
Readers' Favorite — 5-Star Review
“This novelization is at turns harrowing and funny as its cycles of capture-and-escape gets twistier and ever-more surprising.”
Publishers Weekly, BookLife Editor's Pick
“The narrative is written in first person, paying homage to the original memoir it was inspired by; this diary-like format allows readers to truly experience the story as if it were happening to them.”
Kirkus Reviews
“Strong and determined characters are the strength of this novel, and readers will root for their success.”
BookLife Prize
Awards
Finalist in Children's Fiction
American Book Fest 20th Annual Best Book Award
Middle Grade San Diego Book Award Finalist
San Diego Book Awards Association
First Place Outstanding Individual Project 2023
California DAR
Jeanne
Becijos
author • presenter
Copyright © 2026 Jeanne Becijos