Book summary

Set in 1687 in the small Connecticut colony of Wethersfield, this masterpiece of historical fiction elegantly conveys the social conventions of Puritan life in the American colonies. Katherine "Kit" Tyler, a 16-year-old orphan who was raised by her wealthy grandfather in Barbados, books passage on a ship bound for America after his death. There, she is taken in by her only living relatives--Puritan Aunt Rachel and her family. Used to a very open household, the independent Kit tries to adapt to the Puritan lifestyle, but she finds herself unable to completely accept, or even understand, the conventions of her new surroundings. Kit finds some comfort when she befriends Hannah Tupper, an elderly widow who lives alone on the outskirts of town. Hannah, however, is believed by many to be a witch--and Kit's friendship with her ultimately puts both of them in grave danger. Throughout the course of her captivating story, author Elizabeth George Speare seamlessly weaves in details about life in colonial America, touching on and explaining such subjects as religion, the roles of women, courtship rituals, and even candle making. Winner of the 1959 Newbery Medal.

Media reviews

"Strong plot, fully realized characters, and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative of a girl whose rebellion against bigotry and her Puritan surroundings culminates in a witch hunt and trial."