Saturday, January 10, 2009

The Heretic’s Daughter

The Heretic’s Daughter by Kathleen Kent

What was this book about?

Martha Carrier is a mother to three boys and two girls. She isn’t what Sarah Carrier wished she had in a mother. She seems to be strict and mean – not giving Sarah the love and attention that she so desires. But things for Sarah are not as they seem to be. While her mother may seem harsh – she is also one to stand up for ideals.

Told from Sarah’s point of you – this book follows Sarah, Martha, and the rest of the family through a devastating period of time – the Salem Witch Trials. Their friends, neighbors, and even they are being prosecuted for being witches. How do you hold on to your ideals of truth and justice when it could mean death for you and all your loved ones?

What did you think about the book?

I read the Crucible in high school but other then that have neither thought that much about the Salem Witch Trials or read much. But after this book I have to say I would be interested in seeing what was out there. (And I will most likely read the prequel to this book that Kathleen Kent is working on).

For me a huge part of the appeal is that Kathleen Kent is a 10th generation descendent of Martha Carrier. So this is in some ways her story as well. While much of it is fiction (as Kathleen really doesn’t know all that happened) it is also incredibly detailed and accurate.

It makes you so angry to think that any sort of personal grudge could be used against someone as witchcraft. Could you imagine if that happened in today’s day in age? Instead of high school bullies – children could be getting their friends arrested over the slightest argument – if they were willing to lie.

This time period is an interesting one in American history and I was definitely excited to read a book about it.

What genre would you consider this?
Historical Fiction

Overall:


Question for You!

Do you have a family story that relates to history? I have always been intrigued by history and how it relates to my family (but am sad to say I know of no stories that relate my ancestors to some great historical event).

3 comments:

Darlene said...

I've got this one on my shelf. I'm really looking forward to reading it. This time period fascinates me and I agree, it's hard to believe that so many died because of what other's thought. Great review.

Marg said...

I had this out from the library to read, but had to return it. I must borrow it again and read it this time!

Luanne said...

I absolutely loved this book. I thought it represented the attitudes of time period well. Even more fascinating with the family connection the author had.