The Witch of Blackbird Pond

Spears, E. G. (1958). The witch of blackbird pond. Boston: Sandpiper.
Age Group: This book is appropriate for students age nine and up.

Summary: The Witch of Blackbird Pond is set in Connecticut in the late 1600s. She is forced to move from Barbados after her grandfather passes away. She joins her aunt's family whom she has never met. There is a lot culture shock in this book as Kit is placed in a primarily Puritan community. Things become worse for Kit as she befriends a lady referred to as the Witch of Blackbird Pond.

Reflection: This is a widely known book, because of its portrayal of the witch trials and Puritan history. I think it would be appropriate for children learning about history in the United States and great addition to both language arts and social studies classrooms. It provides parts of the history in a narrative format. As a child I loved historical fiction that had characters near my age, so this would be an appropriate text to both challenge students and help them actually have the experience of reading historical fiction. The book has on overall theme of judging others.

Big Questions: Will Kit ever adapt to the life of the Puritans? How would the situation with Prudence Cruff work out?  Would Uncle Matthew ever change? What may happen if the Puritans find out about Kit's friendship with a suspected witch?