The Puritan Twins

by Lucy Fitch Perkins

"The Puritan Twins" by Lucy Fitch Perkins is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around twelve-year-old twins, Daniel and Nancy Pepperell, who live with their Puritan mother in a log cabin in New England during the year 1638. As they navigate the challenges of frontier life, including tasks like clam digging and the dangers posed by wildlife and native tribes, the twins’ adventures also reflect the strict moral and religious values of their Puritan upbringing. At the start of the story, Goodwife Pepperell anxiously searches for her children, fearing they may have wandered too far into the woods. After finding them, she instructs the twins on their chores, highlighting the responsibilities expected of them. Their playful antics, such as drawing mischievous pictures in the sand and their subsequent trouble with the tide, lead to a dramatic rescue by Captain Sanders, who brings them back home just in time for a storm. The narrative sets the stage for their family dynamics, the principles of Puritan life, and the excitement of childhood adventure in a challenging environment.