Summary from Novelist: Young Sarah Carrier tries to cope with life in Salem, Massachusetts, after her mother, Martha Carrier, is accused, tried, and hanged as a witch.
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Each month, Rhode Island Center for the Book at Providence Public Library's Let's Talk Books blog will feature a RI writer, reader, or book artist who will share their thoughts.
Summary from Novelist: Young Sarah Carrier tries to cope with life in Salem, Massachusetts, after her mother, Martha Carrier, is accused, tried, and hanged as a witch.
4 comments:
Too depressing. Writing isn't up to snuff for a top pick. Ending is weak.
I thought this book was well written and gave a very different perspective of the Salem witch trials, as the story is told through the eyes of a twelve year old whose family is torn apart by the Salem witch hunt. Based on the oral tradition of the author's ancestry, the book is very well researched. I think it would appeal to the broad range of readers we have always tried to reach. It has a local connection to Salem, Massachusetts (field trips!) and several historical aspects for teachers and book groups to mine.
I liked that the book was based upon the author's family history. However, it is not the best historical fiction ever written on the topic of the Salem witch trials. The challenging relationship between mother and daughter was realistic. Additionally, this book explores complex relationships that evolved between different families and caused individuals to question their own loyalty. The writing is uneven and this was a book that could be put down.
I loved that this book was based on the author's own family and I learned quite a bit about this time period in our nation's history. But, I have to agree that the writing was weak. The writing style was very "matter of fact". So much so that I never felt an emotional response to either the story or any of the characters. Many of the descriptions were too long and boring and caused me to lose interest. I think that some of the other selections pack a more powerful and emotional punch.
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