57 pages • 1 hour read
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272
Novel • Fiction
Connecticut Colony • Late 1600s
1958
Middle grade
10-14 years
850L
The Witch of Blackbird Pond follows sixteen-year-old Kit Tyler as she transitions from a luxurious life in Barbados to the austere Puritan community of Wethersfield, Connecticut, in 1687. Kit's vibrant personality and unconventional ways clash with her stern uncle and the local authorities. Her friendship with a reclusive Quaker woman, Hannah Tupper, and her struggles against intolerance reveal themes of belonging, individualism, and the dangers of societal prejudice.
Mysterious
Nostalgic
Suspenseful
Romantic
160,595 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare is lauded for its compelling narrative and historical accuracy, capturing the complexities of 17th-century Puritan New England. Praised for rich character development, especially of protagonist Kit, it also faces criticism for its sometimes slow pacing. Overall, it’s heralded as an insightful and engaging read for younger audiences.
A reader who would enjoy The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare is likely a fan of historical fiction, particularly with strong, independent young female protagonists. Comparable to readers of Little House on the Prairie and Anne of Green Gables, they appreciate immersive settings, personal growth, and themes of societal conflict and acceptance.
160,595 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nat Eaton
Nat Eaton, a 19-year-old first mate on the Dolphin and the son of a ship captain, is open-minded due to his travels and has an interest in Kit.
Hannah Tupper
Hannah Tupper is an elderly Quaker widow living on the outskirts of Wethersfield, offering refuge and companionship to those like Kit and Nat.
Matthew Wood
Matthew Wood is Kit’s stern Puritan uncle in Wethersfield, who initially finds Kit’s presence disruptive but eventually comes to appreciate her.
Rachel Wood
Rachel Wood, Kit's kindly aunt and the sister of Kit's deceased mother, helps Kit adapt to colonial life and shows courage in difficult times.
Mercy Wood
Mercy Wood, the gentle elder daughter of Matthew and Rachel, possesses a resilient spirit despite her physical limitations and aids Kit in learning new skills.
Judith Wood
Judith Wood, Mercy’s younger sister, is pretty but demanding; she focuses on material comforts and securing a prosperous union.
William Ashby
William Ashby is a wealthy and socially conscious young man who initially courts Kit and is noted for his dreams of building a grand house.
John Holbrook
John Holbrook is a divinity student who becomes friends with Kit during her journey to Wethersfield, often surprised by her unconventional actions.
Prudence Cruff
Prudence Cruff is a timid and undernourished young girl who befriends Kit and learns to read and write under her guidance.
Goodwife Cruff
Goodwife Cruff, a superstitious and harsh Puritan housewife, harbors suspicions against Kit and becomes a vocal accuser in her community.
272
Novel • Fiction
Connecticut Colony • Late 1600s
1958
Middle grade
10-14 years
850L
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