The Witch of Blackbird
Pond is a historical
fiction novel set in colonial New England in 1687. The protagonist, Kit, is a sixteen-year-old
girl who moves from her beloved home in tropical Barbados to live with her aunt
and her family in the seemingly dreary colony of Connecticut. Kit’s
free-spirited and headstrong personality begins to stir up trouble in the
strict Puritan society, especially when she befriends the local old widow
accused of being a witch. When she stands up for her beliefs through tough
times and situations, she begins to find a place in the world and discovers who
she truly loves. The theme of this book is to always follow your heart, no
matter what society says, because in the end you will always be happier.
This story is told in third person through the eyes of
Kathrine Tyler, or Kit. Trouble begins when Kit’s strong will and heart clash
with the world of the Puritans, but eventually it brings her happiness and
love. I think the intended audience is teens and young adults because the main
characters and conflicts involve issues many teens go through. The genre is historical
fiction because although the story is set in a real time in history with a few
characters that actually lived, the plot line and most of the characters were
made up. The author kept me interested throughout the novel by writing through
the newcomer Kit’s eyes so I experienced the confusion and dreariness of the
Puritan society. She also added many plot twists and events that kept my
attention. The author’s style is sophisticated and informative yet intriguing
and well-written. I think it is effective because it hooks the reader and
provides an air of mystery.
This book was very interesting to me because I have been
learning about Puritans in the American colonies in U.S. history class. It also
showed me how following your heart will always lead to good things in the end. At
first Kit believes that she should marry a man because his wealth will ensure
that she doesn’t work like a slave, but soon comes to find that “there is no
escape unless love is present”. The Witch of Blackbird Pond reminded me
of a book I once read called Felicity, in which a young girl’s dreams go
against colonial American society’s beliefs.
The Witch of Blackbird Pond was very well written with
lots of emotion and had a captivating plot line with an important moral
message. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys an inspiring
and romantic story.
Emily Fonken
12/15/13
RATING: ***** 5/5
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