There's more than one way to be a hero.

Uleyli is a princess– but she isn’t happy with all that comes with it. She’d rather daydream and create art than learn how to rule her people. When a Spanish boy, Juan Ortiz, is captured by Ulelyi’s father, she intervenes on his behalf and begins to plot her escape from her village. As she dreams of a new life in Cuba, Uleyli encounters a series of problems that put her dreams at risk. To solve her problems she will need to use the power of her creativity to help her new friend, her village, and herself.

This graphic novel was inspired by the true story of a young Native American woman, Ulele, known as Florida’s Pocahontas. The beautiful full-color illustrations and simple text paint a picture of life in Native American villages in what is now the southeastern United States. This is a story celebrating Ulele’s story and non-violent heroism.

Perfect for young fans of graphic novels (ages 9 – 12) who are interested in learning more about US history.

Graphic Novels for Kids

Native Americans for Kids

Florida History for Kids

What our customers said

Don’t take our word, see our testimonials

“This was a real treat–an exciting story with a powerful message, what’s not to love? It’s always a pleasure to read a children’s book with a female main character who uses her brain to solve her problems (Uleyli’s passion for art is really inspiring). Plus, the Native American history in the book was all new to me and very interesting. This would be a great gift for kids–or adults, honestly–who love art, adventure, or history.”-Amanda Lee, Toronto, Ontario

Amanda Lee

“We enjoyed the book very much. It was right on target with our Native American Unit and the students were very interested and engaged. It gave them more insight as to what life was actually like then…. especially as Uleyli is a child around their age.”Kerri Stolz, Fifth Grade Teacher, Celebration K-8, Celebration, Florida

Kerri Stolz

Book Trailer

Check out this video sneak peak.

Based on the true story of Florida’s Pocahontas

Free Samples

View the first five pages of Uleyli- The Princess & Pirate (A Junior Graphic Novel)

  • Page 1
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  • Page 5

Author's Note

A strong, female protagonist for my daughter.

I started researching ancient civilizations and the histories of native people in what is now the southeastern United States about eighteen years ago. I have always been fascinated by history and the details of little-known stories. Those years of research inspired me to explore the story of Uleyli and Juan Ortiz, Florida’s very own Pocahontas and John Smith.

As a father raising a young girl, I am always on the lookout for stories that are educational and that have strong female characters. Sadly, my daughter has read through most of the books out there, so I decided to combine my love of history and research with her love of graphic novels into Uleyli: The Princess & Pirate. This book celebrates a young native woman whose bravery and resourcefulness inspired an enduring legend. It is my hope that boys and girls alike will enjoy learning about Uleyli’s strength and importance in history and take away positive messages about non-violence, creativity, and kindness.

Why Wait? Buy Now

Why put off taking your child on an adventure through history? You can buy Uleyli- The Princess & Pirate (A Junior Graphic Novel)right now. You can also buy the illustrated chapter book version, Uleyli- The Princess & Pirate (A Chapter Book).

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