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39 pages 1 hour read

Love and Hate in Jamestown: John Smith, Pocahontas, and The Start of a New Nation

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

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David A. Price

Love and Hate in Jamestown

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Jamestown, Virginia • 1600s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15+ years

Lexile Level

1230L

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Super Short Summary

Love and Hate in Jamestown by David A. Price recounts the English establishment of Jamestown in 1606, the leadership of John Smith, and his interactions with the Algonquin tribes, particularly focusing on Powhatan and his daughter Pocahontas. Price contextualizes their relationships within the broader socio-political and cultural landscape of the time, challenging romanticized narratives and exploring the ensuing conflict between the English settlers and the Algonquin people. The book contains depictions of graphic violence and systematic oppression.

Informative

Adventurous

Mysterious

Challenging

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,660 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

David A. Price’s Love and Hate in Jamestown delivers a well-researched and engaging narrative on early colonial history, blending dramatic storytelling with historical accuracy. Positive reviews praise its readability and vivid character portrayals, while criticisms point to occasional simplifications of complex events. However, it remains a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Love and Hate in Jamestown?

Readers who enjoyed meticulously researched historical narratives with a focus on early American history, such as Nathaniel Philbrick's Mayflower or David McCullough's 1776, will find Love and Hate in Jamestown by David A. Price equally compelling. This book suits those interested in the dramatic and nuanced tales of America's foundational period.

4.2

1,660 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

John Smith

A historical figure known primarily through his own writings, regarded for his pragmatism and often seen as central to the colony's early narratives. His interactions with the Algonquin and his peers highlight his complex role in early American history.

A Native American woman whose story intersects with colonial narratives, often mythologized and romanticized. Her experiences among the English and her eventual marriage to John Rolfe are notable aspects of her life.

The leader of the Algonquin during the early English colonial efforts, often depicted variably in different narratives. His role as both a stabilizing and essential figure for the English is emphasized.

An English aristocrat whose tenure as a leader in Jamestown is marked by significant failures. His leadership during the difficult winter is noted for its contribution to the colony's hardships.

The Powhatan leader who succeeded Powhatan and is known for his strategic maneuvers. His actions are critical to the evolving relations between the Native Americans and the English colonists.

A businessman and plantation owner known for marrying Pocahontas. His role highlights the cultural intersections and personal dilemmas faced in the Jamestown narrative.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Jamestown, Virginia • 1600s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15+ years

Lexile Level

1230L

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