51 pages • 1 hour read
The Unredeemed Captive: A Family Story from Early America
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Book Brief
315
Book • Nonfiction
Colonial America • 1700s
1994
Adult
14-18 years
1030L
Super Short Summary
The Unredeemed Captive: A Family Story from Early America by John Putnam Demos narrates the story of the 1704 Mohawk raid on Deerfield, Massachusetts, capturing 112 residents, including seven-year-old Eunice Williams. Abducted by Mohawk warriors, Eunice assimilates into Kahnawake culture, forgetting English, marrying a Mohawk man, and refusing to return to Puritan life, despite her family's efforts. The book highlights themes of multiculturalism and colonial influence in early America, using primary sources to explore the intersecting histories of Native American, French, Canadian, and British peoples. The narrative deals with sensitive topics such as violent conflict, cultural assimilation, and familial separation.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
1,849 ratings
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Review Roundup
John Putnam Demos' The Unredeemed Captive is praised for its detailed historical research and compelling narrative about cultural encounters in colonial America. Critics appreciate its vivid storytelling and empathy for its subjects, though some find it dense and occasionally meandering. Overall, it's acclaimed for bringing history to life through personal stories.
Who Should Read The Unredeemed Captive?
Readers who enjoy meticulously researched historical narratives with a focus on early American history and cross-cultural relations will appreciate The Unredeemed Captive by John Putnam Demos. Fans of James Axtell’s The Invasion Within and Nathaniel Philbrick's Mayflower will find this book particularly engaging.
1,849 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
John Williams
John Williams
A Puritan minister in Deerfield and father to Eunice, who spends years attempting to recover his daughter after being taken. His life is marked by captivity following a raid on Deerfield, and his dedication to his daughter's return.
The Native Americans
The Native Americans
They are diverse tribes in colonial New England, with the Kahnawake being prominent in Eunice Williams' life. Their customs and society are explored to understand her changed life perspectives.
The French
The French
They hold significant power in Canada and are allied with Native Americans against British settlers. Figures such as the governor Marquis de Vaudreuil and captain Jean Baptiste Guyon play roles in the narrative.
The British
The British
Puritan settlers in search of religious freedom, with figures like Cotton Mather playing notable parts. Their ongoing conflict with the French frames the broader historical context of the story.
315
Book • Nonfiction
Colonial America • 1700s
1994
Adult
14-18 years
1030L
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