The Witch of Blackbird Pond

by Elizabeth George Speare
The Witch of Blackbird Pond cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 10024
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9780547550299
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published: 1958-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Kit Tyler, a young woman from Barbados, arrives in the rigid Puritan community of Connecticut in 1687. Feeling out of place in her aunt's household, she seeks solace in the company of Hannah Tupper, an old woman who lives alone on an island and is considered a witch by the townsfolk. As Kit's friendship with Hannah deepens, she begins to question the harsh beliefs of her new home and finds herself drawn to the charismatic William Ashby and the free-spirited Nat Eaton. However, her growing connection to Hannah and her defiance of the community's strict rules soon lead to accusations of witchcraft, forcing Kit to stand trial and fight for her life. /n/n Set against the backdrop of colonial America, 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' explores themes of intolerance, freedom, and the power of individuality. The novel is praised for its rich historical detail and compelling characters, offering a vivid portrayal of a young woman's struggle for acceptance and understanding in a society ruled by fear and superstition.

Reviews
thelibraryladies.com · The Library Ladies · 2024-05-13
fantastic 4.60

The plot is engrossing, with sub-plots expertly woven through the book. The setting is brought to life in an amazing way.

The Library Ladies praise 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' for its engrossing plot and the skillful integration of sub-plots that enrich the narrative. The setting is vividly brought to life, immersing readers in the historical context of 17th-century New England. The reviewer particularly appreciates the depth of the characters and the authenticity of their experiences, which add layers of emotional and historical significance to the story. The book's ability to tackle complex themes like prejudice and religious intolerance is highlighted, making it a compelling read that invites reflection and discussion. The detailed portrayal of the Puritan society and the protagonist's journey offers a rich and rewarding reading experience.

Quick quotes

    The plot is engrossing, with several sub-plots expertly woven through the book.

    The time and place of the setting is brought to life in such an amazing way.

    The characters were very true to life for the time.

yvettecarol.wordpress.com · Yvette Carol · 2021-11-25
brilliant 4.30

The book is a young adult novel that effectively explores themes of prejudice and misogyny. The protagonist's journey is both engaging and educational.

Yvette Carol discusses 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' as a young adult novel that masterfully explores themes of prejudice, misogyny, and religious intolerance. The protagonist, Kit, is portrayed in a way that makes her journey both relatable and inspiring, highlighting the challenges faced by women in a Puritan society. The reviewer appreciates the historical accuracy and the nuanced portrayal of the characters, which add depth and authenticity to the narrative. The book's ability to blend historical context with personal growth and societal critique is particularly commendable. The detailed portrayal of the Puritan society and the protagonist's journey offers a rich and rewarding reading experience, making it a compelling read that invites reflection and discussion.

Quick quotes

    There are so many ways it explores themes of prejudice and misogyny.

    The protagonist's journey is both engaging and educational.

    The book's ability to blend historical context with personal growth and societal critique is particularly commendable.

samannelizabeth.wordpress.com · Samanne Elizabeth · 2020-11-10
great 4.00

The characters were very true to life for the time, feeling lifelike and relatable. The novel effectively handles heavy topics like prejudice and misogyny.

Samanne Elizabeth highlights how the characters in 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' are incredibly lifelike and relatable, reflecting the societal norms and challenges of the 17th century. The novel's strength lies in its ability to tackle serious issues such as prejudice, othering, religious panic, and misogyny in a way that resonates with readers. The narrative is engaging, and the characters' development is well-crafted, making the story both educational and emotionally impactful. The reviewer appreciates the historical accuracy and the nuanced portrayal of the protagonist, Kit, and her struggles in a Puritan society. The book's ability to blend historical context with personal growth and societal critique is particularly commendable.

Quick quotes

    Judith and Aunt Sarah were very lifelike and felt like people you could meet.

    The novel effectively handles heavy topics like prejudice and misogyny.

    The characters were very true to life for the time.

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