The Log of the Jessie Bill

The journal entries of the dauntless Mr. Peter Paul Sherman lend unique insights to the treacherous world of Reconstruction-era river-boating. This humorous epistolary novel brings history to life as it transports the reader to the time of majestic steamers and cunning river pirates.

For the life of me, I don''t see how anybody in his right mind would want a berth on a busted down wreck like the Jessie Bill. But then there ain''t many people on the Jessie Bill in their right minds [...]My name is Peter Paul Sherman and I''m mud clerk on the Jessie Bill. Flunky might be a better word for it. I''m 17 and if I can live through one more season on this leaky old tub, I''ll put in for a job on some respectable boat...And so begins the wonderful adventures of Mr. Peter Paul Sherman. It''s the kind of story that the incomparable Mr. Samuel Clemens would have recognized in a flash. Peter Sherman''s lively and hilarious account of this travels up and down the mighty Mississippi will delight every family that appreciates the wonderful history and unique characters that make up our rich American heritage.Where else could you find battles with river pirates, riots caused by floating Shakespearean acting troupes, picnics that turn into brawls...and it''s all true.More or less.