I'm listening to the audio version and I can't imagine a more joyful listen. Katherine Kellegrin's narration is outstanding, the most masterful, actorly reading I've encountered in an audio book. The story itself makes the fear of discovery the principal point of tension, as orphan Mary Farber tries to escape the wretched life of a street urchin by joining the Royal Navy as "Jacky," a ship boy. The period details and lingo are perfectly balanced to make the setting come alive while never slowing down the story. As sheer entertainment, this book ranks amongst the best.
 - )