You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.
Scan barcode
A review by morgancmorgal
Witch Child by Celia Rees
4.0
Witch Child is a captivating historical novel that tells the story of Mary, a young girl who flees from England to America after her grandmother is executed for witchcraft. The book is written in the form of diary entries that Mary secretly keeps throughout her journey and her life in the New World. Through Mary's eyes, we witness the harsh realities of the 17th century, the dangers of being different, and the power of courage and friendship.
I enjoyed reading this book for several reasons. First, I liked the diary format, which made the story more personal and engaging. I felt like I was reading Mary's thoughts and feelings, and I could relate to her struggles and hopes. Second, I appreciated the historical details and the vivid descriptions of the settings, the characters, and the events. The author did a great job of recreating the atmosphere and the culture of the time period, and I learned a lot about the history of witchcraft, Puritanism, and Native Americans. Third, I admired Mary as a protagonist. She was smart, brave, independent, and compassionate. She faced many challenges and dangers, but she never gave up on her dreams and her identity. She also formed meaningful relationships with other people, especially Martha, Jonah, and Tobias, who supported and protected her.
The only thing that I did not like about this book was the ending. I won't spoil it, but I will say that it was very abrupt and left me with many questions and emotions. I understand that the author wanted to create a realistic and mysterious ending, but I wish there was more closure and resolution for Mary and her friends. I also wish there was a sequel to this book, because I would love to know what happened to them after the last diary entry.
Overall, I would recommend Witch Child to anyone who likes historical fiction, especially stories about witches and the Salem witch trials. It is a well-written, well-researched, and well-crafted book that will keep you hooked from the first page to the last. It is also a thought-provoking and moving story that explores themes such as identity, freedom, prejudice, and faith. I give it four stars out of five.
I enjoyed reading this book for several reasons. First, I liked the diary format, which made the story more personal and engaging. I felt like I was reading Mary's thoughts and feelings, and I could relate to her struggles and hopes. Second, I appreciated the historical details and the vivid descriptions of the settings, the characters, and the events. The author did a great job of recreating the atmosphere and the culture of the time period, and I learned a lot about the history of witchcraft, Puritanism, and Native Americans. Third, I admired Mary as a protagonist. She was smart, brave, independent, and compassionate. She faced many challenges and dangers, but she never gave up on her dreams and her identity. She also formed meaningful relationships with other people, especially Martha, Jonah, and Tobias, who supported and protected her.
The only thing that I did not like about this book was the ending. I won't spoil it, but I will say that it was very abrupt and left me with many questions and emotions. I understand that the author wanted to create a realistic and mysterious ending, but I wish there was more closure and resolution for Mary and her friends. I also wish there was a sequel to this book, because I would love to know what happened to them after the last diary entry.
Overall, I would recommend Witch Child to anyone who likes historical fiction, especially stories about witches and the Salem witch trials. It is a well-written, well-researched, and well-crafted book that will keep you hooked from the first page to the last. It is also a thought-provoking and moving story that explores themes such as identity, freedom, prejudice, and faith. I give it four stars out of five.