Subject
Massachusetts -- History -- Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775 -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Emma Leslie
Eric, a waif : $b A story of last century
"Eric, a Waif: A Story of Last Century" by Emma Leslie is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the journey of Eric Hunter, a boy left orphaned after his mother dies, as he navigates the prejudices of a small village and later faces dire circumstances that lead to his transportation as a prisoner to America. Through Eric's experiences, the novel explores themes of resilience, faith, and the search for belonging in a harsh world. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Eric and his mother, who lead a secluded life in the village of Summerleigh, where they face suspicion and whispers of witchcraft due to their outsider status and Eric’s mother's herbal remedies. After his mother passes away, Eric finds himself alone and without support, except for the landlord of The Magpie, who gives him a chance to work despite the village's scorn. Although he yearns for a deeper connection and struggles with the weight of accusations against his family, Eric remains persistent in his belief in a higher purpose and God’s care. The opening sets the stage for Eric’s subsequent trials and encounters, catalyzing what seems to be a life filled with challenges but also opportunities for growth and transformation.
Lucy Fitch Perkins
The Puritan Twins
"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.
John Theodore Mueller
Three Young Pioneers A Story of the Early Settlement of Our Country
"Three Young Pioneers" by John Theodore Mueller is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the early settlement of America, following the journey and experiences of two orphaned siblings, Fred and Agnes, who are taken in by a kind-hearted couple on their way to America. As the narrative unfolds, the children navigate the complexities of pioneer life while grappling with their past and building new relationships in their new home. The opening of the story introduces the characters aboard a ship in the year 1630, marking their journey to America. After the death of their mother, Fred and Agnes are left orphaned and frightened among a group of settlers. However, they find solace and guardianship with Clara Bradley, who mourns her own longing for children. As the tale begins, the atmosphere is marked by the hardships of the journey across the Atlantic, the hope for a new life in America, and the close-knit community of settlers who support one another in a time of peril. This sets the stage for their adventures as they grow up in the Massachusetts Colony, learning to thrive amidst challenges and dangers.
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