All About Middle Grade Review: Mary Jemison: Native American Captive
What happens when everything you know is suddenly ripped away? This is the fate of Mary Jemison, a fifteen-year-old frontier girl living in Pennsylvania in 1758. How does Mary find the will to carry on?First Sentence:
During the French and Indian War, Mary is captured by a band of French and Shawnee warriors and led deep into the woods. After her family is killed, Mary is traded to the Seneca and taken in by two sisters. Renamed Dehgewanus, she finds her place among the Seneca and embarks on a new way of life. But when given the choice, will Mary return to the world she once knew or remain with her adopted family?
A storm was coming.
As much as I enjoyed historical books based upon true stories,just like Mary Jemison: Native American Captive, as you never know if they got it right or took to much free license with their telling of it. Yet, I thought this one was really well done and thoroughly enjoyable to read.
- In the beginning, the book starts off a little slow as the scene is set with the Jemison's traveling to America in order to freely practice their faith. The backstory is very important as it shows you where Mary and her family are coming from, as well as their feelings upon being taken. While short, it does set the scene for her character.
- Overall, as much as I enjoyed this one, I think it would be beneficial for parents to read it before their (8-12 year old) child(ren) so that they can discuss a couple aspects of what happened to Mary and her family. Historically, I believe the author kept things accurate as to the conflict between the English and Native Americans/French and how it impacted the relations between the two sides during the war.
- One reason I enjoyed this book was seeing how Mary, after quite some time, was able to open her heart to the Seneca tribe that adopted her. Sure, how she ended up there was not exactly favorable, but it was an interesting contrast to see how her view of them changed over time as she came to know more about them and their culture.
- To be honest, there was one thing that made me mad. It has nothing to do with the actual book, just the way the Native American tribes were treated and how they were constantly cheated out of their lands.
Final Verdict: Mary Jemison: Native American Captive- Based on a true story and done well. This was definitely worth reading as it brings the story of Mary Jemison to vibrant life.
Mary Jemison: Native American Captive earns
An advanced copy of this book was received in consideration for review. All thoughts are my own.
Very good review. I want to read this book.
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