1.Bibliography –
Cushman, K. (1995). THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. New York, NY: Clarion Books. ISBN-10: 0-395-69229-6 / ISBN-13: 978-0395-69229-5
2. Plot Summary –
“In Medieval England, a nameless, homeless girl is taken in by a sharp-tempered midwife and, in spite of obstacles and hardship, eventually gains the three things she most wants: a full belly, a contented heart, and a place in this world” (Cushman, K., 1995).
“With simplicity, wit, and humor, Cushman presents another tale of medieval England. Here readers follow the satisfying, literal and figurative journey of a homeless, nameless child called Brat, who might be 12 or 13? No one really knows. She wandered about in her early years, seeking food and any kind of refuge and, like many outsiders, gained a certain kind of wisdom about people and their ways. Still, life held little purpose beyond survival?until she meets the sharp-nosed, irritable local midwife, which is where this story begins. Jane takes her in, re-names her Beetle, and thinks of her as free labor and no competition. Always practical but initially timid, the girl expands in courage and self-awareness, acquiring a cat as a companion, naming herself Alyce, and gaining experience in the ways of midwifery. From the breathless delight of helping a boy to deliver twin calves, to the despair of failure during a difficult birth, to the triumph of a successful delivery, Alyce struggles to understand how she can allow herself to fail and yet have the determination to reach for her own place in the world. Alyce wins. Characters are sketched briefly but with telling, witty detail, and the very scents and sounds of the land and people's occupations fill each page as Alyce comes of age and heart. Earthy humor, the foibles of humans both high and low, and a fascinating mix of superstition and genuinely helpful herbal remedies attached to childbirth make this a truly delightful introduction to a world seldom seen in children's literature” (Miller, S., 1995).
“The Midwife's Apprentice is a deft historical novel of medieval England in which an impoverished girl hopelessly circumstanced becomes a worthy young adult learning the skills, craft, and lore of midwifery—for centuries a profession of critical importance for women about to give birth before medical doctors began to deliver babies. She achieves her position through courage, hard work, a feeling heart, and the ability to transform chance encounters into self-knowledge” (Bookrags, 2009).
3. Critical Analysis -
a. Characters –
The main characters in the story are: Our female protagonist Alyce (also known as Beetle, Brainless Brat, Dung Beetle, Clodpod, Good-for-Nothing, Idiot, Lackwit, Nitwit, Clodpole and Nincompoop), Jane Sharp (the stern Midwife), Edward (her sort-of-brother), Purr the Cat (Alyce’s companion), Magister Reese (the renowned scholar), Jennet (the innkeeper’s and John Dark’s wife), Will Russet (the red-haired boy she helps deliver calves with).
About our protagonist Alyce: “A girl of twelve or thirteen years begins The Midwife's Apprentice without mother, name, or home. She is a stranger to soft words who has known only curses, kicks, and blows. One would need to read widely to find a heroine on the verge of womanhood with a less promising future, yet by the end of the novel she has moved far beyond the desperate struggle just to survive and become a person who knows 'how to try and risk and fail and try again and not give up.’ She has put herself in position to learn everything about being a midwife— physical techniques, herbs, potions, superstitions, spells and charms— and, even more importantly, has unlocked her capacity for compassionate intelligence which will add the grace of tenderness to her future ministrations” (Bookrags, 2009).
Karen Cushman takes great strides in making her characters believable with their physical discriptions and personalities. She uses language appropriate to the times as well as the superstitions and activities that people would partake in back in Medieval times.
“The story takes place in medieval England. This time our protagonist is Alyce, who rises from the dung heap (literally) of homelessness and namelessness to find a station in life--apprentice to the crotchety, snaggletoothed midwife Jane Sharp. On Alyce's first solo outing as a midwife, she fails to deliver. Instead of facing her ignorance, Alyce chooses to run from failure--never a good choice” (Amazon, 2009).
b. Plot –
“Like Cushman's 1994 Newbery Honor Book, Catherine, Called Birdy, this novel is about a strong, young woman in medieval England who finds her own way home. Of course, it's a feminist story for the 1990s, but there's no anachronism. This is a world, like Chaucer's, that's neither sweet nor fair; it's rough, dangerous, primitive, and raucous. Cushman writes with a sharp simplicity and a pulsing beat. From the first page you're caught by the spirit of the homeless, nameless waif, somewhere around 12 years old, "unwashed, unnourished, unloved, and unlovely," trying to keep warm in a dung heap. She gets the village midwife, Jane Sharp, to take her in, befriends a cat, names herself Alyce, and learns something about delivering babies. When she fails, she runs away, but she picks herself up again and returns to work and independence. Only the episode about her caring for a homeless child seems contrived. The characters are drawn with zest and affection but no false reverence. The midwife is tough and greedy ("she did her job with energy and some skill, but without care, compassion, or joy"), her method somewhere between superstition, herbal lore, common sense, and bumbling; yet she's the one who finally helps Alyce to be brave. Kids will like this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she's not ugly or stupid or alone” (Rochman, H., 2009)
c. Setting –
The story takes place in Medieval England - in the village of the Midwife, in the dung heap, in the meadows, in the fields, on the bank near the river, the Manor where Edward stayed, and in the town where the inn known simply as John Dark’s place (which then became known as “The Cat and Cheese” Inn) was located.
“The Midwife's Apprentice takes place in the last years of the thirteenth or the first years of the fourteenth century.
This is not stated explicitly but is easily established by internal evidence.
References are made to ‘Summer Is Acoming In,’ a Middle English lyric written down in manuscript after 1240 and before 1310, and Edward Longshanks, the first of eight English Kings to bear that name, who reigned from 1272 to 1307” (Bookrags, 2009).
“From the first sentences the world of medieval England bursts to life not just as a physical landscape against which people struggle to survive but almost as a character in its own right: ‘When animal droppings and garbage and spoiled straw are piled up in a great heap, the rotting and moiling give forth heat. Usually no one gets close enough to notice because of the stench. But the girl noticed and, on that frosty night, burrowed deep into the warm, rotting muck, heedless of the smell….’.” (Bookrags, 2009).
d. Theme –
The human themes of self-respect, self-reflection and growth, as well as self-worth are all part of this story’s theme. Other themes that are apparent in this book are superstitions and consequences for breaking God’s rules (even if the Devil made you do it). These are all relevant themes today – however, they were brought about in this story to reflect the morals of the times and how the consequences were dealt with back then.
“THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE tells of a dirty, homeless girl in Medieval England who learns self-respect as well as midwifery in this short, excellent read aloud” (Vardell, S., p.180, 2008)
“Cushman treats an often perilous and brutal historical period with delicacy, touching on enough of the harshness of the age to bring it to vivid life but muting its cruelest aspects. It is always painful to contemplate filth, poverty, desperate lives of grinding labor, and the truly helpless—orphans, the homeless, and animals—but Cushman presents only what must be shown to be realistic, with all the rendered details put into the service of a moral story. This tale is also presented with adroit finesse. Thus the Midwife's Apprentice has very few social sensitivities that might cause offense; it could be produced as G rated movie without alteration. The few themes or situations that might be potentially objectionable are handled with calming discretion such as the illicit romance between the midwife and the married baker” (Bookrags, 2009).
e. Style –
The style of this book reflects the author’s voice and manner and captures the flavour of the times. Cushman captures the speech patterns of the era and creates a “human” story that just happens to be set in a previous historical time but whose message of self-growth, reflection and self-worth transcends time!
“The novel vividly depicts its historical period while engaging readers with a heartfelt story, one which should movingly appeal to a wide range of sensitive young adults. This emotional engagement is deeper than just the response to a colorful tale well-told; it is enriched because the novel illuminates universal truths of a kind young readers yearn to embrace” (Bookrags, 2009).
“Karen Cushman likes to write with her tongue firmly planted in her cheek, and her feisty female characters firmly planted in history. In The Midwife's Apprentice, which earned the 1996 Newbery Medal, this makes a winning combination for children and adult readers alike” (Amazon, 2009).
“Disappointingly, Cushman does not offer any hardships or internal wrestling to warrant Alyce's final epiphanies, and one of the book's climactic insights is when Alyce discovers that lo and behold she is actually pretty! Still, Cushman redeems her writing, as always, with historical accuracy, saucy dialogue, fast-paced action, and plucky, original characters that older readers will eagerly devour” (Amazon, 2009).
“In reviewing this 1996 Newbery winner, Publisher’s Weekly said that Cushman ‘has an almost unrivaled ability to build atmosphere, and her evocation of a medieval village, if not scholarly in its authenticity, is supremely colorful and pungent’.(Reed Business Information, Inc., 1996)” (Amazon, 2009).
“The Midwife's Apprentice is a fine book for young adults produced by many small artful strokes. There are no flourished displays of literary devices and techniques here, only the traditional storyteller's voice wellmodulated and perfectly pitched for its intended audience. Cushman's supple prose is excellent for brief descriptions of states of mind, individual people, and the natural world. An example of each will illustrate her descriptive dexterity. On Brat's pitiful longings when she is a homeless wretch at the beginning of the book: ‘.. . but dearly would she have loved to eat a turnip without the mud of the field still on it or sleep in a barn fragrant with new hay and not the rank smell of pigs who fart when they eat too much.’ On Magister Reese: ‘He was long and skinny as a heron, with black eyes in a face that looked sad, kindly, hungry, and cold’.” (Bookrags, 2009).
f. Additional criteria –
“Karen Cushman has a long-standing interest in history. She says, "I grew tired of hearing about kings, princes, generals and presidents. I wanted to know what life was like for ordinary young people in other times." Research into medieval English history and culture led to the writing of Catherine Called Birdy,winner of the 1995 Newbery Honor Award, and The Midwife's Apprentice, winner of the 1996 Newbery Medal. Her research moved in a new direction as she learned about nineteenth century women and children for The Ballad of Lucy Whipple”. (Amazon, 2009).
In the back of her book, Cushman writes her “Author’s Note” section where she discusses midwives as well as midwifery. “Medieval midwifery which was less than an honorable profession, mostly because it was practiced by and on women; was a combination of common sense, herbal knowledge, and superstition, passed from woman to woman through oral tradition and apprenticeship. Things were done the way they had long been done, with little innovation or progress, however this ‘women’s knowledge’ was considered reliable and valuable” (Cushman, p.119, 1995). With all of the details that Cushman adds to her story; one feels that it is a true depiction and accurate account of the medieval times.
g. Awards & recognitions –
• Winner, 1996 Newbery Medal
• New York Public Library 1995 List of Recommended Books
• Booklist for Youth Editor’s Choice 1995
• School Library Journal Best Books of the Year, 1995
• An American Bookseller Association Pick of the Lists, 1995
• A 1996 Notable Children’s Book (ALA)
• A 1996 Best Books for Young Adults (ALA)
4. Review Excerpts –
"This novel is about a strong, young woman in medieval England who finds her own way home. . . . Kids will be caught up in this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she’s not ugly or stupid or alone." -- School Library Journal, Starred
"A fascinating view of a far distant time." -- The Horn Book (starred review)
“This appeared some time ago but deserves ongoing mention as an excellent story for kids ages 12 and up. An abandoned young girl barely surviving in 14th century England finds a new home with a midwife and studies to be an apprentice - but lack of confidence one day causes her to flee her newfound home and ambitions. Her struggle to return to a meaningful life and world makes for a realistic, absorbing story.” -- Midwest Book Review
5. Connections –
Other books available by Karen Cushman are:
** CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY
** THE BALLAD OF LUCY WHIPPLE
** MATILDA BONE
** RODZINA
“Related Titles:
Catherine, Called Birdy shares a host of attributes with The Midwife's Apprentice, so many that the second novel stands almost in the same relation to the first as do the two halves of a diptych: together they make up an entire world. Catherine, Called Birdy is the first-person diary account of a highborn thirteen-year-old girl of diminished means struggling to impose her will on the world around her of England in 1290-1291. The Midwife's Apprentice is the third-person story of a lowborn and impoverished thirteenyear-old girl who is trying to survive in the England of about 1300. The two novels touch on the high, the low, and almost all that lies between in this portion of the Middle Ages” (Bookrags, 2009).
“Ideas for Reports and Papers:
1. Research herbal medicines used in the Middle Ages and then write a study of which ones are still in use and for what purposes. Are some still used but for different illnesses? How accurate were medieval herbalists in the efficacy of their preparations?
2. Research animal husbandry in rural life. Pick several cultures in different time periods and compare their respective animal husbandry practices.
3. Rebecs, gitterns, and sackbuts are mentioned in the story. Research these and other medieval musical instruments. How were they built? Out of what materials? Which ones have modern descendants? Which ones have disappeared? Describe how a group of medieval instruments might have sounded and the effects this sound might have had on audiences.
4. Research medieval Saint's Days. Which ones were the most important and why?” (Bookrags, 2009).
“Topics for Discussion:
1. Does Alyce have a moral right to take revenge on those who have humiliated her? If so, to what degree? Is it ever right to take personal vengeance in the modern world? If so, in what circumstances and under what conditions?
2. Should Alyce protest the sharp practices, if not outright cheating, of the innkeeper's wife? Should Alyce try to deal honestly with the customers despite the example set by Jennet? Is Jennet's justification of her adulterated trade a good one? Would we today accept this explanation for goods or services purchased that was intentionally shorted by the seller?” (Bookrags, 2009).
Audio Book on CD:
I also listened to this book in audio format and found this review of it:
“From the first sentence, strains of music and the British accent of actress Charlotte Coleman transport the listener to the medieval world of Beetle, the midwife's newly adopted apprentice. Coleman's slightly nasal voice has an air of immaturity, which emphasizes the child's point of view in the third-person narration of this Newbery winner. The text is read at a lively pace with careful attention to the disdainful attitude of Jane Sharp, the midwife, and the innocent wonder of Beetle. Listeners will acquire knowledge about medieval life, birthing practices and herbs, both from the story and from the author interview, which is conducted by a young reader at the end” (Amazon, 2009).
References
Vardell, Sylvia. (2008). Children's literature in action: A librarian's guide. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.
Amazon, (1996 – 2009). The midwife’s apprentice, retrieved on November 9, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/Midwifes-Apprentice-Newbery-Medal-Book/dp/0395692296/ref=tmm_hrd_title_0
Miller, S., (1995). School library journal: The midwife’s apprentice, retrieved on November 9, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/006440630X/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Rochman, H., (2009). Booklist: The midwife’s apprentice, retrieved on November 9, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/006440630X/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Bookrags, (1999-2009). The midwife’s apprentice - overview, retrieved November 9, 2009, from http://www.bookrags.com/shortguide-midwifes-apprentice/
Cushman, K. (1995). THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. New York, NY: Clarion Books. ISBN: 0-395-69229-6 / ISBN-13: 978-0395-69229-5
Showing posts with label LS5603 Genre #5 Historical Fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label LS5603 Genre #5 Historical Fiction. Show all posts
Monday, November 9, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Genre #5 Book Review #2 : Richard Peck - THE RIVER BETWEEN US
1.Bibliography –
Peck, Richard. 2003. THE RIVER BETWEEN US. New York, NY: Dial Books. ISBN-10: 0-8037-2d735-6 / ISBN-13: 978-0803727359
2. Plot Summary –
“This historical novel set at the beginning of the Civil War actually opens in 1916, as 15-year-old Howard Leland Hutchings recounts his trip in a Model T to visit his father's childhood home in Grand Tower, IL. When he and his younger brothers meet the four elderly people who raised their father, the novel shifts to 1861, and the narrator shifts to 15-year-old Tilly Pruitt, the boys' grandmother. When a steamboat from New Orleans brings two mysterious young ladies, Mama offers them room and board, and the Pruitts' lives are forever changed. Fair and beautiful Delphine Duval, with her fancy dresses and high-society ways, fascinates the family. And what of Calinda, the darker-skinned young woman? Could she be Delphine's slave? On the eve of his 16th birthday, Tilly's twin brother, Noah, leaves to join the Union troops at Camp Defiance and Mama, distraught, sends Tilly and Delphine to bring him home. It is here that Tilly learns of Delphine's heritage. She is a quadroon, part of the colored family of a rich white man. Her mother sent her daughters away from New Orleans, hoping Delphine can pass for white. The novel ends with a return to 1916 and Howard's finding out his father's true parentage. In this thoroughly researched novel, Peck masterfully describes the female Civil War experience, the subtle and not-too-subtle ways the country was changing, and the split in loyalty that separated towns and even families. Although the book deals with some weighty themes, it is not without humor. A scene involving strapping on a corset is worthy of Grandma Dowdel herself” (Burns, C., 2003).
3. Critical Analysis -
a. Characters –
The main characters in THE RIVER BETWEEN US are the Pruitt family that consists of Mama, the twins Tilly and Noah, little sister Cass, the mysterious New Orlean’s visitors Delphine Duval and Calinda, Dr. William Hutchings Sr.; and in the beginning and ending of the story we are introduced to Dr. William Hutchings Jr., and his sons Howard Leland Hutchings, and little twin brothers Raymond and Earl.
“The actions of the characters are very realistic. Customs from New Orleans are described through Delphine’s and Calinda’s characters. For example, the issue of race and laws preventing interracial marriages are discussed. Cass’ visions and Calinda’s card reading add to the mystery of the novel. The characters come from a variety of backgrounds and family structures” (Library Thing).
b. Plot –
“The plot is strong, interesting, and believable” (Library Thing, 2009).
The plot of the story actually sees the fusing of two stories in one – two plots coming together in a unique and wonderful way! The first story finds Dr. William Hutchings Jr. and his three sons traveling in their Model Ford T Touring Car in 1916 to their homeplace in Grand Tower where Dr. Hutchings’s family still lived. Then we are transported to 1861 and are given the history of his family through Tilly Pruitt’s eyes and the Civil War era that they lived through; and how the visitors from New Orleans came to live there too. The end of the story brings us back to 1916 and concludes with Dr. Hutchings Jr. talking to his eldest son on their return trip back to St. Louis, in which time we find out the twist in his family’s story!
“The Southerners need lodging and Mrs. Pruitt needs money, so a business deal is struck. But, while the duo brings excitement to the Pruitt family, their guests also bring mystery and controversy. Is Delphine a spy? Is Calinda her slave? Why aren’t they moving on to St. Louis as originally planned? When an attraction develops between Noah Pruitt and Delphine, everyone in town seems to know. The intrigue of the guests’ identities merges with the outbreak of war to affect the future in ways none of them expect” (Albion, M., 2005).
c. Setting –
The setting for THE RIVER BETWEEN US is the small town of Grand Tower, IL., at the beginning of the Civil War. The banks of the Mississippi River that runs from New Orleans to St. Louis as well as the city of Cairo are also key to the story:
“The story takes place in 1916 when Tilly begins telling her family history from 1861. The setting and time periods are described through the actions of the characters. The steamboats and the trains as well as the descriptions of the characters’ clothes and activities allow the reader to understand life in 1861. The story is built around life during the Civil War. The harsh realities of war and its effect on families in this novel are convincing to the reader” (Library Thing, 2009).
“Richard Peck is a master of stories about people in transition, but perhaps never before has he told a tale of such dramatic change as this one, set during the first year of the Civil War. The whole country is changing in 1861-even the folks from a muddy little Illinois settlement on the banks of the Mississippi” (Amazon).
d. Theme –
In this story, “fifteen-year-old Tilly Pruitt frets over the fact that her brother is dreaming of being a soldier and that her sister is prone to supernatural visions. A boy named Curry could possibly become a distraction. Then a steamboat whistle splits the air. The Rob Roy from New Orleans docks at the landing, and off the boat step two remarkable figures: a vibrant, commanding young lady in a rustling hoop skirt and a darker, silent woman in a plain cloak, with a bandanna wrapped around her head. Who are these two fascinating strangers? And is the darker woman a slave, standing now on the free soil of Illinois? When Tilly's mother invites the women to board at her house, the whole world shifts for the Pruitts and for their visitors as well” (Amazon, 2009).
e. Style –
“Within a page-turning tale of mystery, adventure, and the civilian Civil War experience, Richard Peck has spun a breathtaking portrait of the lifelong impact that one person can have on another. This is a novel of countless riches” (Amazon, 2009).
“Peck's spare writing has never been more eloquent than in this powerful mystery in which personal secrets drive the plot and reveal the history. True to Tilly's first-person narrative, each sentence is a scrappy, melancholy, wry evocation of character, time, and place, and only the character of Delphine's companion, Calinda, comes close to stereotype. A final historical note and a framing device--a grandson writing 50 years after the story takes place--make the reading even better, the revelations more astonishing. It's a riveting story that shows racism everywhere and young people facing war, not sure what side to be on or why” (Rochman, H., 2003).
“As The River Between Us demonstrates, you can’t go wrong with a Richard Peck book. It’s no accident that the author of thirty novels has achieved the Newbery Medal, a Newbery Honor, a National Humanities Medal and scores of other accolades. His books for young people always challenge, never condescend. Masterfully crafted plots grab the reader and plant them firmly in a place and time. His characters are complex, interesting and always human, struggling with history, personal relationships and themselves. The plot lines may twist and turn, but they always bring the reader to a surprising and ultimately extraordinary conclusion. The River Between Us further enhances Peck’s reputation and leaves us all asking when his next book will hit the shelves” (Albion, M., 2005).
f. Additional criteria –
“Conversation is also used to understand the characters. In describing Delphine, Grandma Tilly’s mother told Tilly, “She put some starch in my spine.” In addition changes were seen in Tilly and Cass after the arrival of the mysterious ladies. The reader also noticed a change in Noah and Dr. Hutchings after the Civil War. The dialogue was suited to the time period. Words like et and seegars were used. Delphine, who was from New Orleans, used French terms. The mystery was not solved until the end of the novel. Townspeople thought that Delphine and Calinda were spies. The ghost story was presented at the beginning of the book. However, it was not until the end of the novel before everything came together. The point of view allowed a young person to understand family, customs, and the effects and harsh conditions of the Civil War. The split between the North and the South and the turmoil that families faced are evident in this novel. A surprise ending of Howard finding information about his real grandparents helped the reader understand the serious laws of the time. A River Between Us is a great story woven around the events of the Civil War” (Library Thing, 2009).
At the end of the book, there is a note on the story where Mr. Peck talks about the history that he researched that went into making this book more true to life, adding real historical details to make it more authentic. He is quoted by saying:
“Researching the Civil War is enough to swamp any novelist’s boat. That war remains the pivot on which all American history turns. It ground on for four endless years, raging on a thousand fronts. I could have spent the rest of my life researching that time. People do. But I had to carve out a place for my young characters to stand.
Because it’s a story of two mysterious young women who come north from New Orleans, the focus of the story is upon the war on the Mississippi River. Since they needed a northern destination, I borrowed the hometown of my friend Richard Hughes, because all of my stories are set in real places” (Peck, R., P. 159, 2003).
g. Awards & recognitions –
Richard Peck has won almost every children's fiction award, including the Newbery Medal, and he has recently received a National Humanities Medal from the White House.
THE RIVER BETWEEN US has been recognized with the following awards:
• National Book Award: Finalist
• Scott O'Dell Award
• ALA Notable Book
• ALA Best Book for Young Adults
• Riverbank Review Children's Books of Distinction
• Booklist Editor's Choice
• NYPL's 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
• IRA Book Award
• Book Sense 76 Top Ten Selection
• Parents' Choice Award
“Richard Peck is the first children’s writer to have been awarded a National Humanities Medal. The author of 30 novels, he has also won the Margaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime achievement in young-adult literature, the Newbery Medal (for A Year Down Yonder), a Newbery Honor (for A Long Way from Chicago), and numerous other awards and honors. His most recent book, Fair Weather, was included on more than a dozen best-of-the-year lists” (Teacher Scholastic, 2009).
4. Review Excerpts –
** A rich tale full of magic, mystery, and surprise. -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review
** Historical fiction fans should enter this at the top of the must-read list. -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review
** Peck reaches new depth with this Civil War-era novel. . . -- Publishers Weekly, starred review
** The harsh realities of war are brutally related in a complex, always surprising plot that resonates on multiple levels. -- The Horn Book, starred review
** This unusual Civil War novel really boosts Peck's credentials as America's best living author for young adults. -- The Washington Post
** Unforgettable characters and handsome prose make this book one you won't want to miss. -- Children's Literature --This text refers to the Paperback edition.
** It's a riveting story that shows racism everywhere and young people facing war, not sure what side to be on or why. -- Booklist, starred review
** Historical fiction fans should enter this at the top of the must-read list. --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review
5. Connections –
Richard Peck is a brilliant award winning author and has many books credited to his name. Some of his other literary works are the following:
• DON’T LOOK AND IT WON’T HURT
• DREAMLAND LAKE
• THROUGH A BRIEF DARKNESS
• REPRESENTING SUPER DOLL
• THE GHOST BELONGED TO ME
• ARE YOU IN THE HOUSE ALONE?
• GHOSTS I HAVE BEEN
• FATHER FIGURE
• SECRETS OF THE SHOPPING MALL
• CLOSE ENOUGH TO TOUCH
• THE DREADFUL FUTURE OF BLOSSOM CULP
• REMEMBERING THE GOOD TIMES
• BLOSSOMS CULP AND THE SLEEP OF DEATH
• PRINCESS ASHLEY
• THOSE SUMMER GIRLS I NEVER MET
• VOICES AFTER MIDNIGHT
• UNFINISHED PORTRAIT OF JESSICA
• BEL-AIR BAMBI AND THE MALL RATS
• THE LAST SAFE PLACE ON EARTH
• LOST IN CYBERSPACE
• THE GREAT INTERACTIVE DREAM MACHINE
• STRAYS LIKE US
• A LONG WAY FROM CHICAGO
• AMANDA / MIRANDA
• A YEAR DOWN YONDER
• FAIR WEATHER
• INVITATIONS TO THE WORLD
“In the classroom a teacher could use the book to support information on the history of the different people during the Civil War time. The children could discuss the difference in how they fix their meals, how their houses have indoor plumbing, and how they are entertained at theatres in contrast to the life style during the time period of the book. The teacher could use the book to support a lesson on the origin of many of the old folk songs. The children could be taught a song from the time period of the book and then asked to tell what they think the song meant during the Civil War period” (Library Thing, 2009).
** “For companion books, see ‘Civil War--An Update’ in the September 2003 issue of Book Links” (Rochman, H.).
Audio Book -
I also listened to this book in CD format. I found it very enjoyable to listen to. My daughter even enjoyed listening to it in the car to and from school. I still however prefer to read a story by myself; but in this case, I did like hearing the different accents of the characters - for example, Delphine's French accent and Tilly's poor English. I also enjoyed hearing the many French words that Delphine spoke, as well as listening to the different songs that the book presented.
References
Amazon. (1996-2009). THE RIVER BETWEEN US, retrieved on November 6, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0803727356/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Burns, C. (2003). Amazon - school library journal, retrieved on November 7, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/River-Between-Us-Richard-Peck/dp/0803727356/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Rochman, H. (2003). Amazon – booklist, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/River-Between-Us-Richard-Peck/dp/0803727356/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Teacher Scholastic. (2009). Book circle: The river between us, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://teacher.scholastic.com/clubs/pdfs/riverbetweenus_t.pdf
Peck, Richard. 2003. THE RIVER BETWEEN US. New York, NY: Dial Books. ISBN-10: 0-8037-2d735-6 / ISBN-13: 978-0803727359
Albion, M. (2005). The five owls review: The river between us, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://www.fiveowls.com/reviews/river.htm
Library Thing. (2009). The river between us, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://www.librarything.com/work/113890
Peck, Richard. 2003. THE RIVER BETWEEN US. New York, NY: Dial Books. ISBN-10: 0-8037-2d735-6 / ISBN-13: 978-0803727359
2. Plot Summary –
“This historical novel set at the beginning of the Civil War actually opens in 1916, as 15-year-old Howard Leland Hutchings recounts his trip in a Model T to visit his father's childhood home in Grand Tower, IL. When he and his younger brothers meet the four elderly people who raised their father, the novel shifts to 1861, and the narrator shifts to 15-year-old Tilly Pruitt, the boys' grandmother. When a steamboat from New Orleans brings two mysterious young ladies, Mama offers them room and board, and the Pruitts' lives are forever changed. Fair and beautiful Delphine Duval, with her fancy dresses and high-society ways, fascinates the family. And what of Calinda, the darker-skinned young woman? Could she be Delphine's slave? On the eve of his 16th birthday, Tilly's twin brother, Noah, leaves to join the Union troops at Camp Defiance and Mama, distraught, sends Tilly and Delphine to bring him home. It is here that Tilly learns of Delphine's heritage. She is a quadroon, part of the colored family of a rich white man. Her mother sent her daughters away from New Orleans, hoping Delphine can pass for white. The novel ends with a return to 1916 and Howard's finding out his father's true parentage. In this thoroughly researched novel, Peck masterfully describes the female Civil War experience, the subtle and not-too-subtle ways the country was changing, and the split in loyalty that separated towns and even families. Although the book deals with some weighty themes, it is not without humor. A scene involving strapping on a corset is worthy of Grandma Dowdel herself” (Burns, C., 2003).
3. Critical Analysis -
a. Characters –
The main characters in THE RIVER BETWEEN US are the Pruitt family that consists of Mama, the twins Tilly and Noah, little sister Cass, the mysterious New Orlean’s visitors Delphine Duval and Calinda, Dr. William Hutchings Sr.; and in the beginning and ending of the story we are introduced to Dr. William Hutchings Jr., and his sons Howard Leland Hutchings, and little twin brothers Raymond and Earl.
“The actions of the characters are very realistic. Customs from New Orleans are described through Delphine’s and Calinda’s characters. For example, the issue of race and laws preventing interracial marriages are discussed. Cass’ visions and Calinda’s card reading add to the mystery of the novel. The characters come from a variety of backgrounds and family structures” (Library Thing).
b. Plot –
“The plot is strong, interesting, and believable” (Library Thing, 2009).
The plot of the story actually sees the fusing of two stories in one – two plots coming together in a unique and wonderful way! The first story finds Dr. William Hutchings Jr. and his three sons traveling in their Model Ford T Touring Car in 1916 to their homeplace in Grand Tower where Dr. Hutchings’s family still lived. Then we are transported to 1861 and are given the history of his family through Tilly Pruitt’s eyes and the Civil War era that they lived through; and how the visitors from New Orleans came to live there too. The end of the story brings us back to 1916 and concludes with Dr. Hutchings Jr. talking to his eldest son on their return trip back to St. Louis, in which time we find out the twist in his family’s story!
“The Southerners need lodging and Mrs. Pruitt needs money, so a business deal is struck. But, while the duo brings excitement to the Pruitt family, their guests also bring mystery and controversy. Is Delphine a spy? Is Calinda her slave? Why aren’t they moving on to St. Louis as originally planned? When an attraction develops between Noah Pruitt and Delphine, everyone in town seems to know. The intrigue of the guests’ identities merges with the outbreak of war to affect the future in ways none of them expect” (Albion, M., 2005).
c. Setting –
The setting for THE RIVER BETWEEN US is the small town of Grand Tower, IL., at the beginning of the Civil War. The banks of the Mississippi River that runs from New Orleans to St. Louis as well as the city of Cairo are also key to the story:
“The story takes place in 1916 when Tilly begins telling her family history from 1861. The setting and time periods are described through the actions of the characters. The steamboats and the trains as well as the descriptions of the characters’ clothes and activities allow the reader to understand life in 1861. The story is built around life during the Civil War. The harsh realities of war and its effect on families in this novel are convincing to the reader” (Library Thing, 2009).
“Richard Peck is a master of stories about people in transition, but perhaps never before has he told a tale of such dramatic change as this one, set during the first year of the Civil War. The whole country is changing in 1861-even the folks from a muddy little Illinois settlement on the banks of the Mississippi” (Amazon).
d. Theme –
In this story, “fifteen-year-old Tilly Pruitt frets over the fact that her brother is dreaming of being a soldier and that her sister is prone to supernatural visions. A boy named Curry could possibly become a distraction. Then a steamboat whistle splits the air. The Rob Roy from New Orleans docks at the landing, and off the boat step two remarkable figures: a vibrant, commanding young lady in a rustling hoop skirt and a darker, silent woman in a plain cloak, with a bandanna wrapped around her head. Who are these two fascinating strangers? And is the darker woman a slave, standing now on the free soil of Illinois? When Tilly's mother invites the women to board at her house, the whole world shifts for the Pruitts and for their visitors as well” (Amazon, 2009).
e. Style –
“Within a page-turning tale of mystery, adventure, and the civilian Civil War experience, Richard Peck has spun a breathtaking portrait of the lifelong impact that one person can have on another. This is a novel of countless riches” (Amazon, 2009).
“Peck's spare writing has never been more eloquent than in this powerful mystery in which personal secrets drive the plot and reveal the history. True to Tilly's first-person narrative, each sentence is a scrappy, melancholy, wry evocation of character, time, and place, and only the character of Delphine's companion, Calinda, comes close to stereotype. A final historical note and a framing device--a grandson writing 50 years after the story takes place--make the reading even better, the revelations more astonishing. It's a riveting story that shows racism everywhere and young people facing war, not sure what side to be on or why” (Rochman, H., 2003).
“As The River Between Us demonstrates, you can’t go wrong with a Richard Peck book. It’s no accident that the author of thirty novels has achieved the Newbery Medal, a Newbery Honor, a National Humanities Medal and scores of other accolades. His books for young people always challenge, never condescend. Masterfully crafted plots grab the reader and plant them firmly in a place and time. His characters are complex, interesting and always human, struggling with history, personal relationships and themselves. The plot lines may twist and turn, but they always bring the reader to a surprising and ultimately extraordinary conclusion. The River Between Us further enhances Peck’s reputation and leaves us all asking when his next book will hit the shelves” (Albion, M., 2005).
f. Additional criteria –
“Conversation is also used to understand the characters. In describing Delphine, Grandma Tilly’s mother told Tilly, “She put some starch in my spine.” In addition changes were seen in Tilly and Cass after the arrival of the mysterious ladies. The reader also noticed a change in Noah and Dr. Hutchings after the Civil War. The dialogue was suited to the time period. Words like et and seegars were used. Delphine, who was from New Orleans, used French terms. The mystery was not solved until the end of the novel. Townspeople thought that Delphine and Calinda were spies. The ghost story was presented at the beginning of the book. However, it was not until the end of the novel before everything came together. The point of view allowed a young person to understand family, customs, and the effects and harsh conditions of the Civil War. The split between the North and the South and the turmoil that families faced are evident in this novel. A surprise ending of Howard finding information about his real grandparents helped the reader understand the serious laws of the time. A River Between Us is a great story woven around the events of the Civil War” (Library Thing, 2009).
At the end of the book, there is a note on the story where Mr. Peck talks about the history that he researched that went into making this book more true to life, adding real historical details to make it more authentic. He is quoted by saying:
“Researching the Civil War is enough to swamp any novelist’s boat. That war remains the pivot on which all American history turns. It ground on for four endless years, raging on a thousand fronts. I could have spent the rest of my life researching that time. People do. But I had to carve out a place for my young characters to stand.
Because it’s a story of two mysterious young women who come north from New Orleans, the focus of the story is upon the war on the Mississippi River. Since they needed a northern destination, I borrowed the hometown of my friend Richard Hughes, because all of my stories are set in real places” (Peck, R., P. 159, 2003).
g. Awards & recognitions –
Richard Peck has won almost every children's fiction award, including the Newbery Medal, and he has recently received a National Humanities Medal from the White House.
THE RIVER BETWEEN US has been recognized with the following awards:
• National Book Award: Finalist
• Scott O'Dell Award
• ALA Notable Book
• ALA Best Book for Young Adults
• Riverbank Review Children's Books of Distinction
• Booklist Editor's Choice
• NYPL's 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
• IRA Book Award
• Book Sense 76 Top Ten Selection
• Parents' Choice Award
“Richard Peck is the first children’s writer to have been awarded a National Humanities Medal. The author of 30 novels, he has also won the Margaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime achievement in young-adult literature, the Newbery Medal (for A Year Down Yonder), a Newbery Honor (for A Long Way from Chicago), and numerous other awards and honors. His most recent book, Fair Weather, was included on more than a dozen best-of-the-year lists” (Teacher Scholastic, 2009).
4. Review Excerpts –
** A rich tale full of magic, mystery, and surprise. -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review
** Historical fiction fans should enter this at the top of the must-read list. -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review
** Peck reaches new depth with this Civil War-era novel. . . -- Publishers Weekly, starred review
** The harsh realities of war are brutally related in a complex, always surprising plot that resonates on multiple levels. -- The Horn Book, starred review
** This unusual Civil War novel really boosts Peck's credentials as America's best living author for young adults. -- The Washington Post
** Unforgettable characters and handsome prose make this book one you won't want to miss. -- Children's Literature --This text refers to the Paperback edition.
** It's a riveting story that shows racism everywhere and young people facing war, not sure what side to be on or why. -- Booklist, starred review
** Historical fiction fans should enter this at the top of the must-read list. --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review
5. Connections –
Richard Peck is a brilliant award winning author and has many books credited to his name. Some of his other literary works are the following:
• DON’T LOOK AND IT WON’T HURT
• DREAMLAND LAKE
• THROUGH A BRIEF DARKNESS
• REPRESENTING SUPER DOLL
• THE GHOST BELONGED TO ME
• ARE YOU IN THE HOUSE ALONE?
• GHOSTS I HAVE BEEN
• FATHER FIGURE
• SECRETS OF THE SHOPPING MALL
• CLOSE ENOUGH TO TOUCH
• THE DREADFUL FUTURE OF BLOSSOM CULP
• REMEMBERING THE GOOD TIMES
• BLOSSOMS CULP AND THE SLEEP OF DEATH
• PRINCESS ASHLEY
• THOSE SUMMER GIRLS I NEVER MET
• VOICES AFTER MIDNIGHT
• UNFINISHED PORTRAIT OF JESSICA
• BEL-AIR BAMBI AND THE MALL RATS
• THE LAST SAFE PLACE ON EARTH
• LOST IN CYBERSPACE
• THE GREAT INTERACTIVE DREAM MACHINE
• STRAYS LIKE US
• A LONG WAY FROM CHICAGO
• AMANDA / MIRANDA
• A YEAR DOWN YONDER
• FAIR WEATHER
• INVITATIONS TO THE WORLD
“In the classroom a teacher could use the book to support information on the history of the different people during the Civil War time. The children could discuss the difference in how they fix their meals, how their houses have indoor plumbing, and how they are entertained at theatres in contrast to the life style during the time period of the book. The teacher could use the book to support a lesson on the origin of many of the old folk songs. The children could be taught a song from the time period of the book and then asked to tell what they think the song meant during the Civil War period” (Library Thing, 2009).
** “For companion books, see ‘Civil War--An Update’ in the September 2003 issue of Book Links” (Rochman, H.).
Audio Book -
I also listened to this book in CD format. I found it very enjoyable to listen to. My daughter even enjoyed listening to it in the car to and from school. I still however prefer to read a story by myself; but in this case, I did like hearing the different accents of the characters - for example, Delphine's French accent and Tilly's poor English. I also enjoyed hearing the many French words that Delphine spoke, as well as listening to the different songs that the book presented.
References
Amazon. (1996-2009). THE RIVER BETWEEN US, retrieved on November 6, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0803727356/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Burns, C. (2003). Amazon - school library journal, retrieved on November 7, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/River-Between-Us-Richard-Peck/dp/0803727356/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Rochman, H. (2003). Amazon – booklist, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/River-Between-Us-Richard-Peck/dp/0803727356/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Teacher Scholastic. (2009). Book circle: The river between us, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://teacher.scholastic.com/clubs/pdfs/riverbetweenus_t.pdf
Peck, Richard. 2003. THE RIVER BETWEEN US. New York, NY: Dial Books. ISBN-10: 0-8037-2d735-6 / ISBN-13: 978-0803727359
Albion, M. (2005). The five owls review: The river between us, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://www.fiveowls.com/reviews/river.htm
Library Thing. (2009). The river between us, retrieved on November 8, 2009, from http://www.librarything.com/work/113890
Monday, November 2, 2009
Genre #5 Book Review #1: Elizabeth George Speare - THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND
1.Bibliography –
Speare, Elizabeth George. 1958. THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. New York, NY: Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 0-440-99577-9
2. Plot Summary –
“Orphaned Kit Tyler knows, as she gazes for the first time at the cold, bleak shores of Connecticut Colony, that her new home will never be like the shimmering Carribean islands she left behind. In her relatives’ stern Puritan community, she feels like a tropical bird that that has flown to the wrong part of the world, a bird that is now caged and lonely. The only place where Kit feels completely free is in the meadows, where she enjoys the company of the old Quaker woman known as the Witch of Blackbird Pond, and on occasion, her young sailor friend Nat. But when Kit’s friendship with the ‘witch’ is discovered, Kit is faced with suspicion, fear, and anger. She herself is accused of witchcraft!” (Speare, E., 1958).
3. Critical Analysis -
a.Characters –
The main characters of the story are Katherine “Kit” Tyler, Hannah Tupper - the old Quaker woman, Nat Eaton - the sailor from the ship the Dolphin, her cousins Mercy and Judith Wood, her Aunt Rachel Wood and Uncle Matthew Wood – who let Kit stay with them in Wethersfield, William Ashyby – the rich lad who courts Kit, John Holbrook – the clergyman who courts Judith but really wanted to court Mercy, Goodwife Cruff – who accuses Kit of being a witch, and the little girl, Goodwife’s daughter, Prudence Cruff - whom Kit teaches to read and write.
As the books main character, “Kit is an impetuous, young girl. Orphaned as a baby, she is brought up in wealth and freedom by her grandfather. One can even say she has been a bit spoiled. Kit has never done a day's work in her life. Her grandfather has been a plantation owner and has many slaves. Slavery is something Kit takes for granted. She has grown up with it and never even gives it a second thought. Kit is used to wealth, color and pretty clothes.
Arriving in a Puritan society, so different to what she knows, is a great shock to her. She has a difficult time adapting to the drab life and hard work. Kit finds all the prayer sessions long and boring. She has never had much of a religious education. The young girl loves reading” (bookrags, 2009), teaching others to read, and spending time in the meadow and with Hannah. Her ways are seen as unpure by the Puritan community as she doesn’t do well to keep herself in line; she speaks her mind, is a Royalist where the King is concerned, consorts with witches (Hannah the Quaker) and can even swim (another witch-like quality).
b. Plot –
“Forced to leave her sunny Caribbean home for the bleak Connecticut Colony, Kit Tyler is filled with trepidation. What this spirited teenager doesn't count on, however, is how her aunt and uncle's stern Puritan community will view her. In the colonies of 1687, a girl who swims, wears silk and satin gowns, and talks back to her elders is not only headstrong, she is in grave danger of being regarded as a witch. When Kit befriends an old Quaker woman known as the Witch of Blackbird Pond, it is more than the ascetics can take: soon Kit is defending her life. Who can she count on as she confronts these angry and suspicious townspeople?” (Amazon, 2009).
c. Setting –
The story begins with Kit on the ship the Dolphin that is sailing from Barbados to Connecticut. The author vividly describes the integral settings to the reader: the ship, the house that Kit stays in with her family in Connecticut, the river, the great meadow, Hannah’s cabin, the meeting house, as well as Blackbird Pond. Through these descriptions, Speares helps recreate the time and place of the story which not only contributes to the story’s authenticity but aids the reader in visualizing Kit’s tale.
“The novel is set in Wethersfield, Connecticut in 1687. The author gives a very good description of what the living conditions and habits are in colonial New England. Mrs. Speare also provides the reader with the political and religious scenarios of the time. The book's setting is a very essential part of the story.
This is essentially a historical novel. The story and the main characters are fictional, but based on the behavioral, religious and political reality of the time. The story has a background of true historical facts and characters” (Bookrags, 2009).
“One of Speare's outstanding achievements as a writer is her ability to create a strong sense of place. In The Witch of Blackbird Pond, the contrast between Barbados and New England highlights the distinct characteristics of the Connecticut setting. Speare sets up this contrast in the novel's opening chapter : ‘The bleak line of shore surrounding the gray harbor was a disheartening contrast to the shimmering green and white that fringed the turquoise bay of Barbados...’. Throughout the novel, Speare associates drab colors, particularly gray and black, with Kit's new home, while she describes Barbados with colorful imagery” (Bookrags, 2009).
d. Theme –
Two of the themes in this book are intolerance and bigotry:
“In this novel, Elizabeth George Speare shows the dangers of intolerance and bigotry. In general, it is very necessary for people to feel that they fit in. In this way, they feel secure. They feel in control. Those who are different might disrupt their ordered world. This disruption is frightening. All that is unknown is frightening. Therefore, whoever is different is seen a threat. That is what causes the intolerance.
Bigotry and intolerance are very dangerous within a community or society. When people feel that they are the only ones who are right, they give themselves illegitimate power. They justify the most hideous acts under the ruse of righteousness. Some of the most tragic events have occurred under the name of righteousness.
For example, in this book, one sees how the Quakers are persecuted and treated terribly, through the character Hannah’s also known by the townsfolk as the Witch of Blackbird Pond” (Bookrags, 2009).
e. Style –
The author writes this story to reflect the times back in the mid-1600’s as well as way of speech that the God-fearing Puritans would use to talk to one another. It is written so well that all of the above literary elements are woven together to help create this story from a previous historical time. Also, “the story is written in a very straightforward, narrative style. It is written in third person. It concentrates on the main character, Kit. She is present in all the scenes, so the reader's knowledge is restricted to Kit's experiences and point of view” (Bookrags, 2009).
f. Additional criteria –
“Even though the story of Kit Tyler is fictitious, a few real people walk through the imaginary story. Sir Edmond Andros, the royal governor, Captain Samuel Talcott, the magistrate, Eleazer Kimberley, the schoolmaster, and Reverend Gersholm Bulkeley, the ardent royalist, were important men of their time” (Speare, E., 1958).
g. Awards & recognitions –
** Winner of the 1959 Newbery Medal
** ALA Notable Children's Book
4. Review Excerpts –
** “Irresistible!” –- The Washington Post
** “Compelling.” -– Booklist
** "Strong plot, fully realized characters and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative of a girl whose rebellion against bigotry and her Puritan surroundings culminates in a witch hunt and trial."--Booklist.
** A high-spirited teenage girl rebels against the narrow-minded ways of Puritan Connecticut and befriends a lonely old woman who is subsequently accused of being a witch. "Strong plot, fully realized characters, and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative."--Booklist.
** “Outstanding.” -– San Francisco Chronicle
5. Connections –
Books by Elizabeth George Speare include:
• Calico Captive (1957)
• The Witch of Blackbird Pond (1958) Winner of the 1959 Newbery Medal
• The Bronze Bow (1961) Winner of the 1962 Newbery Medal.
• The Sign of the Beaver (1983)
This book lends itself to so many educational connections for students, not only from a historical point of view but also from a humanistic stand point.
Some essay questions that you can think about and research with students in connection with this story are:
• “What influence do different climatic conditions have on cultural habits?
• Does bigotry and religious intolerance still exist today? How does it affect our lives?
• Who are the Quakers, and why are they considered troublemakers?
• Would modern day people be able to survive without all the conveniences of ready-made products, machines and communication systems the way the early settlers did?” (Bookrags, 2009).
Other topics for discussion could include:
1. “Why does Speare load the first chapter with so many important characters?
Are all the principal characters well drawn?
2. Does Kit react to situations the same way that a sixteen-year-old today would?
3. What might readers conclude about outcasts in this Puritan society? About the Quakers?” (Bookrags, 2009).
Cool Classroom Connections:
“Puritans
What's a Puritan? Why did they come to America? What's the difference between a Puritan and a Pilgrim? What would it be like to live in a family of Puritans? What is a Quaker?
Witches
Explore the history of the Salem Witch trials. Compare Kit's experience at her trial.
Early American Life
Learn about Connecticut yesterday and today. Explore the life of the women and children in colonial New England. Contrast Kit's life with her grandfather and life with her Puritan aunt and Uncle. Discuss the government of early Connecticut. What was the charter? What was the relationship of England with the colonies?
Barbados Island
Where is Barbados? What does it look like? Draw a picture.that will remind Kit of home. What does the land look like? What about the plants and animals?
Prejudices
Have you ever been unfair to someone or had something said to you based on your physical appearance? How do we form our prejudices?” (Literature Learning Ladders, 2002).
Note:
I also listened to the CD of the book and thought it was great! The narrator, Mary Beth Hurt was wonderful! She used different voices and intonations to reflect the different characters in the story and was very interesting to listen to! I found this review of the audio story and I agreed with the reviewer:
“Into the somber, hard, emotionally deadened world of the American Puritans drops Kit--a charming, vibrant young woman from the Caribbean. Narrator Mary Beth Hurt sets the tone from the beginning, emphasizing Kit's enthusiasm, intelligence, and independent nature. Her clipped speech and sometimes breathy delivery draw a vivid picture of this lively young woman, forced to tamp down her spirit to fit into this negative, overbearing society. Hurt creates individual and clearly recognizable voices for all the characters, from Hannah's gentle, kind spirit to Matthew's solid but intimidating presence; and she skillfully develops Prudence from an obedient, fearful child without hope to a bright, caring, and courageous young girl. Speare's classic adapts well to audio, and Hurt gives it life, and hope.” (Amazon, 2009).
References
Speare, Elizabeth George. 1958. THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. New York, NY: Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 0-440-99577-9
Bookrags, (2005-2009). The witch of blackbird pond study guide, retrieved October 31, 2009, from http://www.bookrags.com/The_Witch_of_Blackbird_Pond
Amazon, (1996-2009). The witch of blackbird pond, retrieved November 1, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/Witch-Blackbird-Elizabeth-George-Speare/dp/0440995779/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Literature Learning Ladders, (2002). The witch of blackbird pond, retrieved November 1, 2009, from
http://eduscapes.com/newbery/59a.html
Speare, Elizabeth George. 1958. THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. New York, NY: Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 0-440-99577-9
2. Plot Summary –
“Orphaned Kit Tyler knows, as she gazes for the first time at the cold, bleak shores of Connecticut Colony, that her new home will never be like the shimmering Carribean islands she left behind. In her relatives’ stern Puritan community, she feels like a tropical bird that that has flown to the wrong part of the world, a bird that is now caged and lonely. The only place where Kit feels completely free is in the meadows, where she enjoys the company of the old Quaker woman known as the Witch of Blackbird Pond, and on occasion, her young sailor friend Nat. But when Kit’s friendship with the ‘witch’ is discovered, Kit is faced with suspicion, fear, and anger. She herself is accused of witchcraft!” (Speare, E., 1958).
3. Critical Analysis -
a.Characters –
The main characters of the story are Katherine “Kit” Tyler, Hannah Tupper - the old Quaker woman, Nat Eaton - the sailor from the ship the Dolphin, her cousins Mercy and Judith Wood, her Aunt Rachel Wood and Uncle Matthew Wood – who let Kit stay with them in Wethersfield, William Ashyby – the rich lad who courts Kit, John Holbrook – the clergyman who courts Judith but really wanted to court Mercy, Goodwife Cruff – who accuses Kit of being a witch, and the little girl, Goodwife’s daughter, Prudence Cruff - whom Kit teaches to read and write.
As the books main character, “Kit is an impetuous, young girl. Orphaned as a baby, she is brought up in wealth and freedom by her grandfather. One can even say she has been a bit spoiled. Kit has never done a day's work in her life. Her grandfather has been a plantation owner and has many slaves. Slavery is something Kit takes for granted. She has grown up with it and never even gives it a second thought. Kit is used to wealth, color and pretty clothes.
Arriving in a Puritan society, so different to what she knows, is a great shock to her. She has a difficult time adapting to the drab life and hard work. Kit finds all the prayer sessions long and boring. She has never had much of a religious education. The young girl loves reading” (bookrags, 2009), teaching others to read, and spending time in the meadow and with Hannah. Her ways are seen as unpure by the Puritan community as she doesn’t do well to keep herself in line; she speaks her mind, is a Royalist where the King is concerned, consorts with witches (Hannah the Quaker) and can even swim (another witch-like quality).
b. Plot –
“Forced to leave her sunny Caribbean home for the bleak Connecticut Colony, Kit Tyler is filled with trepidation. What this spirited teenager doesn't count on, however, is how her aunt and uncle's stern Puritan community will view her. In the colonies of 1687, a girl who swims, wears silk and satin gowns, and talks back to her elders is not only headstrong, she is in grave danger of being regarded as a witch. When Kit befriends an old Quaker woman known as the Witch of Blackbird Pond, it is more than the ascetics can take: soon Kit is defending her life. Who can she count on as she confronts these angry and suspicious townspeople?” (Amazon, 2009).
c. Setting –
The story begins with Kit on the ship the Dolphin that is sailing from Barbados to Connecticut. The author vividly describes the integral settings to the reader: the ship, the house that Kit stays in with her family in Connecticut, the river, the great meadow, Hannah’s cabin, the meeting house, as well as Blackbird Pond. Through these descriptions, Speares helps recreate the time and place of the story which not only contributes to the story’s authenticity but aids the reader in visualizing Kit’s tale.
“The novel is set in Wethersfield, Connecticut in 1687. The author gives a very good description of what the living conditions and habits are in colonial New England. Mrs. Speare also provides the reader with the political and religious scenarios of the time. The book's setting is a very essential part of the story.
This is essentially a historical novel. The story and the main characters are fictional, but based on the behavioral, religious and political reality of the time. The story has a background of true historical facts and characters” (Bookrags, 2009).
“One of Speare's outstanding achievements as a writer is her ability to create a strong sense of place. In The Witch of Blackbird Pond, the contrast between Barbados and New England highlights the distinct characteristics of the Connecticut setting. Speare sets up this contrast in the novel's opening chapter : ‘The bleak line of shore surrounding the gray harbor was a disheartening contrast to the shimmering green and white that fringed the turquoise bay of Barbados...’. Throughout the novel, Speare associates drab colors, particularly gray and black, with Kit's new home, while she describes Barbados with colorful imagery” (Bookrags, 2009).
d. Theme –
Two of the themes in this book are intolerance and bigotry:
“In this novel, Elizabeth George Speare shows the dangers of intolerance and bigotry. In general, it is very necessary for people to feel that they fit in. In this way, they feel secure. They feel in control. Those who are different might disrupt their ordered world. This disruption is frightening. All that is unknown is frightening. Therefore, whoever is different is seen a threat. That is what causes the intolerance.
Bigotry and intolerance are very dangerous within a community or society. When people feel that they are the only ones who are right, they give themselves illegitimate power. They justify the most hideous acts under the ruse of righteousness. Some of the most tragic events have occurred under the name of righteousness.
For example, in this book, one sees how the Quakers are persecuted and treated terribly, through the character Hannah’s also known by the townsfolk as the Witch of Blackbird Pond” (Bookrags, 2009).
e. Style –
The author writes this story to reflect the times back in the mid-1600’s as well as way of speech that the God-fearing Puritans would use to talk to one another. It is written so well that all of the above literary elements are woven together to help create this story from a previous historical time. Also, “the story is written in a very straightforward, narrative style. It is written in third person. It concentrates on the main character, Kit. She is present in all the scenes, so the reader's knowledge is restricted to Kit's experiences and point of view” (Bookrags, 2009).
f. Additional criteria –
“Even though the story of Kit Tyler is fictitious, a few real people walk through the imaginary story. Sir Edmond Andros, the royal governor, Captain Samuel Talcott, the magistrate, Eleazer Kimberley, the schoolmaster, and Reverend Gersholm Bulkeley, the ardent royalist, were important men of their time” (Speare, E., 1958).
g. Awards & recognitions –
** Winner of the 1959 Newbery Medal
** ALA Notable Children's Book
4. Review Excerpts –
** “Irresistible!” –- The Washington Post
** “Compelling.” -– Booklist
** "Strong plot, fully realized characters and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative of a girl whose rebellion against bigotry and her Puritan surroundings culminates in a witch hunt and trial."--Booklist.
** A high-spirited teenage girl rebels against the narrow-minded ways of Puritan Connecticut and befriends a lonely old woman who is subsequently accused of being a witch. "Strong plot, fully realized characters, and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative."--Booklist.
** “Outstanding.” -– San Francisco Chronicle
5. Connections –
Books by Elizabeth George Speare include:
• Calico Captive (1957)
• The Witch of Blackbird Pond (1958) Winner of the 1959 Newbery Medal
• The Bronze Bow (1961) Winner of the 1962 Newbery Medal.
• The Sign of the Beaver (1983)
This book lends itself to so many educational connections for students, not only from a historical point of view but also from a humanistic stand point.
Some essay questions that you can think about and research with students in connection with this story are:
• “What influence do different climatic conditions have on cultural habits?
• Does bigotry and religious intolerance still exist today? How does it affect our lives?
• Who are the Quakers, and why are they considered troublemakers?
• Would modern day people be able to survive without all the conveniences of ready-made products, machines and communication systems the way the early settlers did?” (Bookrags, 2009).
Other topics for discussion could include:
1. “Why does Speare load the first chapter with so many important characters?
Are all the principal characters well drawn?
2. Does Kit react to situations the same way that a sixteen-year-old today would?
3. What might readers conclude about outcasts in this Puritan society? About the Quakers?” (Bookrags, 2009).
Cool Classroom Connections:
“Puritans
What's a Puritan? Why did they come to America? What's the difference between a Puritan and a Pilgrim? What would it be like to live in a family of Puritans? What is a Quaker?
Witches
Explore the history of the Salem Witch trials. Compare Kit's experience at her trial.
Early American Life
Learn about Connecticut yesterday and today. Explore the life of the women and children in colonial New England. Contrast Kit's life with her grandfather and life with her Puritan aunt and Uncle. Discuss the government of early Connecticut. What was the charter? What was the relationship of England with the colonies?
Barbados Island
Where is Barbados? What does it look like? Draw a picture.that will remind Kit of home. What does the land look like? What about the plants and animals?
Prejudices
Have you ever been unfair to someone or had something said to you based on your physical appearance? How do we form our prejudices?” (Literature Learning Ladders, 2002).
Note:
I also listened to the CD of the book and thought it was great! The narrator, Mary Beth Hurt was wonderful! She used different voices and intonations to reflect the different characters in the story and was very interesting to listen to! I found this review of the audio story and I agreed with the reviewer:
“Into the somber, hard, emotionally deadened world of the American Puritans drops Kit--a charming, vibrant young woman from the Caribbean. Narrator Mary Beth Hurt sets the tone from the beginning, emphasizing Kit's enthusiasm, intelligence, and independent nature. Her clipped speech and sometimes breathy delivery draw a vivid picture of this lively young woman, forced to tamp down her spirit to fit into this negative, overbearing society. Hurt creates individual and clearly recognizable voices for all the characters, from Hannah's gentle, kind spirit to Matthew's solid but intimidating presence; and she skillfully develops Prudence from an obedient, fearful child without hope to a bright, caring, and courageous young girl. Speare's classic adapts well to audio, and Hurt gives it life, and hope.” (Amazon, 2009).
References
Speare, Elizabeth George. 1958. THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. New York, NY: Bantam Doubleday Dell Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 0-440-99577-9
Bookrags, (2005-2009). The witch of blackbird pond study guide, retrieved October 31, 2009, from http://www.bookrags.com/The_Witch_of_Blackbird_Pond
Amazon, (1996-2009). The witch of blackbird pond, retrieved November 1, 2009, from http://www.amazon.com/Witch-Blackbird-Elizabeth-George-Speare/dp/0440995779/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books
Literature Learning Ladders, (2002). The witch of blackbird pond, retrieved November 1, 2009, from
http://eduscapes.com/newbery/59a.html
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