Subject
Indian captivities -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Edward Sylvester Ellis
Seth Jones; or, The Captives of the Frontier
"Seth Jones; or, The Captives of the Frontier" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story unfolds on the American frontier and centers around Alfred Haverland, a woodman who lives in a remote area of western New York with his wife and daughter, Ina. As tensions rise with local Native American tribes following the Revolutionary War, the narrative explores themes of survival, danger, and family amidst a backdrop of wilderness and conflict. The opening of the book introduces us to Alfred Haverland, a hardworking and strong man, as he is engaged in logging in the depths of the forest when he encounters a newcomer, Seth Jones, who presents himself as an eccentric fellow from New Hampshire. The two quickly form a friendship, but Haverland's sense of security is shaken when Jones warns him about the rising threat of hostile Indians, suggesting that they might target his family. As Haverland and Jones navigate their growing concerns, it becomes evident that danger is imminent, leading to the potential abduction of Haverland's daughter. This suspenseful setup establishes a gripping premise as the characters are thrust into peril, driving the story forward with tension and urgency.
Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade
Timid Hare: The Little Captive
"Timid Hare: The Little Captive" by Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade is a juvenile historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of Native American life, the story revolves around a white girl named Swift Fawn, who is captured by the Dahcotas and renamed Timid Hare. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the contrast between Swift Fawn's native upbringing and her experiences with her captors. The story follows Timid Hare from her capture by the Dahcotas through her struggles to adapt to her new life and environment. Initially frightened and homesick, she learns to navigate the complexities of her situation, finding solace in her friendships, particularly with Black Bull, the deformed son of her captor, The Stone. As the plot unfolds, Timid Hare faces challenges, including hard labor and the cruelty of The Stone, but also experiences moments of kindness, particularly from Sweet Grass, the chief's daughter. Eventually, her journey culminates in a series of events that lead to her rescue by her biological father, intertwining themes of hope and the search for one's true identity amidst cultural dislocation.
Recently surfaced classics