The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

In the novel's introduction, we learn that Charlotte Doyle is on the docks of Liverpool, England to return home to her family in America. Mr. Grummage has been hired by Charlotte's father to see that Charlotte boards Captain Jaggery's ship the Seahawk safety and on time. Mr. Grummage learns that the other passengers on the Seahawk are no longer coming, making Charlotte the only non-crewmember aboard. Grummage refuses to let her take a different ship, insists that he must carry out his order and promptly walks off, leaving Charlotte by herself.

Rising Action: Charlotte develops a friendship with the ship's captain, Jaggery, who recruits her to spy on the crew.

Climax: The hurricane, Charlotte's rescue, and Jaggery's death.

Falling Action: Charlotte is made captain and the Seahawk arrives at its destination. Charlotte finds herself isolated and disconnected from her family because of her experiences.

Conclusion: Charlotte runs away from home and returns to the Seahawk and its crew.