About this item
Highlights
- In the year 1754, the stillness of Charlestown, New Hampshire, is shattered by the terrifying cries of an Indian raid.
- 10-12 Years
- 8.3" x 5.5" Paperback
- 288 Pages
- Juvenile Fiction, Historical
Description
About the Book
In 1754 New Hampshire, young Miriam Willard finds herself caught up in the French Indian War, and is captive on a harrowing march north to a life of hard work and perhaps even slavery. Miriam and her companions reach Montreal, and meet the prominent Du Quesne family, who introduce her to a life she never imagined. Based on an actual diary published in 1807.Book Synopsis
In the year 1754, the stillness of Charlestown, New Hampshire, is shattered by the terrifying cries of an Indian raid. Young Miriam Willard, on a day that had promised new happiness, finds herself instead a captive on a forest trail, caught up in the ebb and flow of the French and Indian War.
It is a harrowing march north. Miriam can only force herself to the next stopping place, the next small portion of food, the next icy stream to be crossed. At the end of the trail waits a life of hard work and, perhaps, even a life of slavery. Mingled with her thoughts of Phineas Whitney, her sweetheart on his way to Harvard, is the crying of her sister's baby, Captive, born on the trail.
Miriam and her companions finally reach Montreal, a city of shifting loyalties filled with the intrigue of war, and here, by a sudden twist of fortune, Miriam meets the prominent Du Quesne family, who introduce her to a life she has never imagined. Based on an actual narrative diary published in 1807, Calico Captive skillfully reenacts an absorbing facet of history.
Review Quotes
"A swiftly moving story . . . Excellent characterization . . . recommended for all schools and public libraries." School Library Journal, Starred --