Wilderness of Spring

by Edgar Pangborn

"Wilderness of Spring" by Edgar Pangborn is a historical novel written in the late 20th century. It portrays life in Deerfield, Massachusetts, during the early 18th century, specifically around 1704, and centers on the experiences of brothers Ben and Reuben Cory amidst the tensions and dangers of their time. The narrative explores themes of familial bonds, fear of the unknown, and the impact of war on innocent lives, particularly focusing on the boys' responses to their tumultuous environment. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Ben Cory, a young boy grappling with feelings of loneliness and the looming threat of the "Others"—the Native Americans and French forces that pose danger to his frontier community. The family struggles with oppressive war tensions, as illustrated by their conversations and daily lives fraught with anxiety and the reality of potential raids. The opening chapters set a vivid scene of their winter environment, the outside world, and the warmth of their home juxtaposed against the harshness of their existence, which serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama that eventually leads to traumatic events impacting the entire family. As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that both brothers are dealing with their internal demons, fears, and the dire consequences of a world at war.