Not so witchy... but still good
There was something strange about this country of America, something that they all seemed to share and understand and she did not.
- Chapter 1
Before Kit's eyes a miracle took place, for which she was totally unprepared... No one had ever told her about autumn in New England. The excitement of it beat in her blood. Every morning she woke with a new confidence and buoyancy she could not explain. In October any wonderful unexpected thing might be possible..
- Chapter 14
Well, the title has "witch" in it, but this isn't really about witches. It's more of a historical fiction book taking place during the Puritan/Quaker era in early American New England. It is the story of an impulsive young girl yearning to fit in and trying to do the right thing.
Kit grew up in Barbados and was raised by her grandfather. When he dies, the only family she has is in New England. New England and Barbados couldn't be more different, and Kit and her New England relatives have about as much in common. Kit grew up with a lot of freedom and having to do little work and it is very difficult for her to adjust. Kit is an admirable heroine, she is willful and determined and she is loyal and loving. She doesn't realize that her behavior and her choice of friends could put her in danger. But, when things start to fall apart, Kit stands up for her friends and for what she believes in.
The story moves along kind of slowly and I was always waiting for something bad to happen. But it was an easy read and written in the perfect style for the intended audience (grades 5-7). I imagine that young girls will enjoy reading about Kit and won't see the end coming as easily as I did.
Recommended to:
Readers in grades 5-7, especially girls, who are looking for strong female characters in historical settings.
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