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Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl
In this riveting historical fiction narrative, National Book Award Finalist John Demos shares the story of a young Puritan girl and her life-changing experience with the Mohawk people.
Inspired by Demos’s award-winning novel The Unredeemed Captive, Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl will captivate a young audience, providing a Native American perspective rather than the Western one typically taught in the classroom.
As the armed conflicts between the English colonies in North America and the French settlements raged in the 1700s, a young Puritan girl, Eunice Williams, is kidnapped by Mohawk people and taken to Canada. She is adopted into a new family, a new culture, and a new set of traditions that will define her life. As Eunice spends her days learning the Mohawk language and the roles of women and girls in the community, she gains a deeper understanding of her Mohawk family. Although her father and brother try to persuade Eunice to return to Massachusetts, she ultimately chooses to remain with her Mohawk family and settlement.
Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl offers a compelling and rich lesson that is sure to enchant young readers and those who want to deepen their understanding of Native American history.
Inspired by Demos’s award-winning novel The Unredeemed Captive, Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl will captivate a young audience, providing a Native American perspective rather than the Western one typically taught in the classroom.
As the armed conflicts between the English colonies in North America and the French settlements raged in the 1700s, a young Puritan girl, Eunice Williams, is kidnapped by Mohawk people and taken to Canada. She is adopted into a new family, a new culture, and a new set of traditions that will define her life. As Eunice spends her days learning the Mohawk language and the roles of women and girls in the community, she gains a deeper understanding of her Mohawk family. Although her father and brother try to persuade Eunice to return to Massachusetts, she ultimately chooses to remain with her Mohawk family and settlement.
Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl offers a compelling and rich lesson that is sure to enchant young readers and those who want to deepen their understanding of Native American history.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published October 31, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 3, 2018
Eunice Williams is a pious Puritan girl of eight years old living in Deerfield, Massachusetts in 1704. Her father is an important Puritan minister on the frontier. She is comfortable and secure living with her parents and brothers, looking forward to playing with her new baby sister when her whole life changes. A band of French and Mohawk warriors at war with England burn the village, kill Eunice's baby sister and their "servant" (slave) and take Eunice, her parents and brothers captive. Eunice's mother is still weak from giving birth and can't keep up the march to Canada. The family is separated and Eunice is taken in by a recently converted Mohawk family at Kahnawake in what is now Quebec Eunice's heart is broken. She wants nothing more than to be returned to her family but her new family and friends are kind. Rev. Williams will stop at nothing to get his youngest child back before she becomes a CATHOLIC! That would be almost worse than becoming Indian! With England and France at war it is going to be a difficult task. What will happen to Eunice?
I was super interested in reading this book because Eunice is my 11xs great-aunt. Her eldest brother Eleazar, my 10xs great-grandfather, was away at Harvard when the attack took place and thus the only one of his family who avoided captivity. He named his daughter, my 9xs great-grandmother, Eunice after his mother and I'd like to think also after his little sister. John Demos is a noted scholar of 17th century New England. I've read some of his writings before and trusted his research. Sadly he made a wrong move in trying to write a novel for young readers. Despite being tested out on young family members, this book misses the mark.
Demos first introduces the young reader to a brief overview of colonial history starting with Columbus and the relationship between the colonists and natives. Then he proceeds to tell the story of Eunice is the dullest possible way. He makes some historical errors along the way. Possibly because he visited Deerfield and the museum workers weren't trained enough not to spread myths like death by petticoat and borning room stories.
While there is action, it's all told from inside Eunice's head or by the author and occasionally the heads of other characters. Most of the book is a long account of life at at Kahnawake. The author speculates what MAY have happened to Eunice based on research about other captives and the native way of life. My nieces may enjoy this in small doses but the story begins rather brutally for the age group this book is intended for (9-12) and the subject of why Puritans hate the Catholics and why the French and English are at war is very complicated. I would rather wait until my nieces and nephews are old enough to understand before telling them about Eunice.
I also expected there to be more about Canada and the Jesuit missionaries. There are a few scenes with Jesuit priests, some in the village and visits from family in what's now the United States. When I was younger I loved the novel Calico Captive. It's a fictionalized account of a similar story and my memory is that it was more descriptive and interesting than this little volume.
I was super interested in reading this book because Eunice is my 11xs great-aunt. Her eldest brother Eleazar, my 10xs great-grandfather, was away at Harvard when the attack took place and thus the only one of his family who avoided captivity. He named his daughter, my 9xs great-grandmother, Eunice after his mother and I'd like to think also after his little sister. John Demos is a noted scholar of 17th century New England. I've read some of his writings before and trusted his research. Sadly he made a wrong move in trying to write a novel for young readers. Despite being tested out on young family members, this book misses the mark.
Demos first introduces the young reader to a brief overview of colonial history starting with Columbus and the relationship between the colonists and natives. Then he proceeds to tell the story of Eunice is the dullest possible way. He makes some historical errors along the way. Possibly because he visited Deerfield and the museum workers weren't trained enough not to spread myths like death by petticoat and borning room stories.
While there is action, it's all told from inside Eunice's head or by the author and occasionally the heads of other characters. Most of the book is a long account of life at at Kahnawake. The author speculates what MAY have happened to Eunice based on research about other captives and the native way of life. My nieces may enjoy this in small doses but the story begins rather brutally for the age group this book is intended for (9-12) and the subject of why Puritans hate the Catholics and why the French and English are at war is very complicated. I would rather wait until my nieces and nephews are old enough to understand before telling them about Eunice.
I also expected there to be more about Canada and the Jesuit missionaries. There are a few scenes with Jesuit priests, some in the village and visits from family in what's now the United States. When I was younger I loved the novel Calico Captive. It's a fictionalized account of a similar story and my memory is that it was more descriptive and interesting than this little volume.
February 28, 2018
Seven-year-old Eunice Williams, along with her entire family and many of the residents of Deerfield, Massachusetts, was captured by the French and Mohawk Indians and taken to Canada. Eunice was separated from her family and adopted into a Mohawk family. I'd read about her before, so I looked forward to reading this novel about her experiences by the author of an adult book about her entitled The Unredeemed Captive. However, while I could get into the story intellectually, I was unable to get into it emotionally because the book reads like the script for a documentary rather than fiction. There is very little dialogue, and lots of description, with a little of what Eunice must have thought and felt thrown in. It's an interesting story, but should have been written as children's non-fiction rather than as a historical novel. Recommended nevertheless for its picture of life as an Indian captive.
March 26, 2018
This account of the life of Eunice Williams in the 1700s is told in an impartial narrator style, so young readers may think of it more as a history book than an adventure. The girl is living in Deerfield, Massachussets (a brief scene setting has explained that the Native tribes were caught between warring English and French) until her town is invaded and destroyed. Families are split up and forced to march to Canada, hostages with the French or enslaved by Mohawks. Eunice has to live as a Mohawk and comes to feel part of that village. However her father, the Reverend, constantly tries to find her.
I especially liked how the true tale describes the ways that everyone lived and travelled. Different cultures, names and religions impose themselves on Eunice - the names could confuse young readers. We see that making a living was hard dirty work for everyone. This book could be a class read or material for a history project.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
I especially liked how the true tale describes the ways that everyone lived and travelled. Different cultures, names and religions impose themselves on Eunice - the names could confuse young readers. We see that making a living was hard dirty work for everyone. This book could be a class read or material for a history project.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
December 30, 2017
A true story, a younger 'Dances with Wolves' of transition from one world to another
While I enjoyed the story itself, I found the narrative style (third person, no speech) took away the emotions of the tale. I've recently read Dances with Wolves, and couldn't help but compare. Though this of course is based on a true story and intended for a much younger audience.
In the midst of warring colonies in the new America, a Puritan girl and her family are caught up in an enforced march after a battle, with the girl, Eunice eventually arriving at a Mohawk settlement and being adopted by a family, taking on a new identity.
Her Puritan family want her back of course, but Eunice (now with a new name) actually finds her life, position and future a happy one in her new home.
Communications and travel seem remarkably easy for the 1700s (maybe things have been simplified for the sparse, short text, but it's amazing how Eunice's father manages to keep in touch with all of his spread-out children after they've been captured and taken away following a battle!).
It's an interesting account, particularly when we see the Mohawk customs and way of life that Eunice comes to consider her own. It would make a very useful text for schools looking at Native Americans and the history of the period. It doesn't feel very emotive or give much perspective of the characters (though Reverend Williams gets more to 'say' than his daughter). It's quite dry and detailed, with lots of historical detail included to make it as educational as possible, rather than 'a good read'.
There is nothing unsuitable here for primary readers, though there are deaths, nothing is explicit or openly upsetting. Could be a good class read for ages 9-13.
While I enjoyed the story itself, I found the narrative style (third person, no speech) took away the emotions of the tale. I've recently read Dances with Wolves, and couldn't help but compare. Though this of course is based on a true story and intended for a much younger audience.
In the midst of warring colonies in the new America, a Puritan girl and her family are caught up in an enforced march after a battle, with the girl, Eunice eventually arriving at a Mohawk settlement and being adopted by a family, taking on a new identity.
Her Puritan family want her back of course, but Eunice (now with a new name) actually finds her life, position and future a happy one in her new home.
Communications and travel seem remarkably easy for the 1700s (maybe things have been simplified for the sparse, short text, but it's amazing how Eunice's father manages to keep in touch with all of his spread-out children after they've been captured and taken away following a battle!).
It's an interesting account, particularly when we see the Mohawk customs and way of life that Eunice comes to consider her own. It would make a very useful text for schools looking at Native Americans and the history of the period. It doesn't feel very emotive or give much perspective of the characters (though Reverend Williams gets more to 'say' than his daughter). It's quite dry and detailed, with lots of historical detail included to make it as educational as possible, rather than 'a good read'.
There is nothing unsuitable here for primary readers, though there are deaths, nothing is explicit or openly upsetting. Could be a good class read for ages 9-13.
August 9, 2017
I big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me this book free of charge, in exchange for an honest review.
This short novel is a fictionalized account of the life of Eunice Williams (also known by many other names given to her by the Catholics and Mohawks, over the course of years). I appreciate how this book has enriched my knowledge (I can't say I've ever before heard of Eunice), and made me want to look into this matter even more. And I find myself in luck, because John Putnam Demos also wrote a historical book dealing with the subject of the Mohawk attack and kidnapping of villagers from a Puritan settlement. And some 20 years later, he decided to write a middle-grade historical fiction novel about it, which resulted in this excellent book I had the opportunity to read.
I think it faithfully paints the picture of the early 18th century American life, the relations with the Native Americans, the religious tensions between Catholics and Puritans, the religious assimilation of the Natives who still managed to maintain their own beliefs, too, a brief mention of the blossoming slave trade, and so on. I especially liked learning about the Mohawk ways, because although rather educational, the book was never once boring to me. I guess there's something in the middle-grade-appropriate writing that really manages to get the message across.
The book details Eunice's life until around the point where she marries, and then skims over the rest of her life in the epilogue. I only took off one star for my not liking the character of her father very much (which I guess isn't even the author's fault). It just did not sit well with me how he found Eunice's well-being, and happiness, and survival only second to her staying true to the Puritan religion.
This short novel is a fictionalized account of the life of Eunice Williams (also known by many other names given to her by the Catholics and Mohawks, over the course of years). I appreciate how this book has enriched my knowledge (I can't say I've ever before heard of Eunice), and made me want to look into this matter even more. And I find myself in luck, because John Putnam Demos also wrote a historical book dealing with the subject of the Mohawk attack and kidnapping of villagers from a Puritan settlement. And some 20 years later, he decided to write a middle-grade historical fiction novel about it, which resulted in this excellent book I had the opportunity to read.
I think it faithfully paints the picture of the early 18th century American life, the relations with the Native Americans, the religious tensions between Catholics and Puritans, the religious assimilation of the Natives who still managed to maintain their own beliefs, too, a brief mention of the blossoming slave trade, and so on. I especially liked learning about the Mohawk ways, because although rather educational, the book was never once boring to me. I guess there's something in the middle-grade-appropriate writing that really manages to get the message across.
The book details Eunice's life until around the point where she marries, and then skims over the rest of her life in the epilogue. I only took off one star for my not liking the character of her father very much (which I guess isn't even the author's fault). It just did not sit well with me how he found Eunice's well-being, and happiness, and survival only second to her staying true to the Puritan religion.
September 11, 2017
First of all, thank you so much to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC of this book!
I have mixed feelings about Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl--and I think it comes down to whether this is a novel or a work of creative non-fiction. When I picked it up, I was excited by the idea of another story along the lines of Indian Captive, which I loved as a girl. Strong characters, compelling plot, intriguing world. But this isn't that.
This book reads more like a historical summary of the characters, and never approaches close POV. I read in the author's note that he is a historian and was inspired by research, and that this is his first attempt at a children's book. I think that shows pretty clearly.
So, this book is a good read if you are mostly just after a quick, distant look at the main story. It had a lot of great details about life in a Mohawk village and issues happening during the time period. I personally found the story interesting because of its information, but only read for the information--I was not compelled by the characters, because we were in such a distant third person it read more like a history book than a story. If I were not a naturally curious and stubborn adult type, I probably wouldn't have finished this.
Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl is excellent if you're after general history and the basics of a good story. But if you want something more engrossing and character-driven, I'd recommend picking up Indian Captive instead.
I have mixed feelings about Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl--and I think it comes down to whether this is a novel or a work of creative non-fiction. When I picked it up, I was excited by the idea of another story along the lines of Indian Captive, which I loved as a girl. Strong characters, compelling plot, intriguing world. But this isn't that.
This book reads more like a historical summary of the characters, and never approaches close POV. I read in the author's note that he is a historian and was inspired by research, and that this is his first attempt at a children's book. I think that shows pretty clearly.
So, this book is a good read if you are mostly just after a quick, distant look at the main story. It had a lot of great details about life in a Mohawk village and issues happening during the time period. I personally found the story interesting because of its information, but only read for the information--I was not compelled by the characters, because we were in such a distant third person it read more like a history book than a story. If I were not a naturally curious and stubborn adult type, I probably wouldn't have finished this.
Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl is excellent if you're after general history and the basics of a good story. But if you want something more engrossing and character-driven, I'd recommend picking up Indian Captive instead.
September 17, 2018
PURITAN GIRL, MOHAWK GIRL (Amulet Books, 2017) written by John Demos and narrated by Christina Moore, is based on the true story of Eunice Kanenstewnhawi Williams who was kidnapped (along with her family) by the Mohawks when she was seven and taken to Canada. The attack on Deerfield Village, where she lived with her Puritan minister father, John Williams, her mother Eunice, and siblings, was in 1704. This attack was part of a series of raids and conflicts between the English and French as part of Queen Anne's War. As Demos notes in the prologue, different Native Americans tribes allied with both countries.
Like Sandra Warren whose book, SHE STARTED IT ALL, was reviewed last week, John Demos wrote this work of fiction after researching and writing a nonfiction account The Unredeemed Captive: A Family Story from Early America which was published in 1995.
I presume that the author used John Williams book, The Redeemed Captive, his account of being kidnapped and returned to Massachusetts. (The hard copy of PURITAN GIRL, MOHAWK GIRL includes substantial author's notes on the historical documentation along with details filled in by the author's knowledge of French Canadian, Puritan, and Mohawk customs and beliefs. Unfortunately these were not a part of the audio recording.)
The story graphically depicts Eunice's capture, the death of her mother and younger sister, and her abduction by the Mohawks. She is adopted by a woman who has lost her daughter. One year later, John Williams travels to try and get her back but is rebuffed by the chief who says that she belongs to them now. He leaves with the image of Eunice begging him to take her back home.
Eunice receives a Mohawk name (Waongote), learns the language, and the history of the tribe. Two years later when a trader comes to the village and tries to convince her to come home, she has no desire to leave her Mohawk family and has totally forgotten the English language. When her father hears of this, it is a source of great grief and sorrow and he never truly gives up hope that she will return.
When she is a teen of marriageable age, she receives the name Kanenstewnhawi and marries a Mohawk man who has already converted to Catholicism. The priests didn’t want to marry them in the church knowing how her father and the English will be upset that she was married as a Catholic Mohawk. They also didn’t want them to live in sin, so they're faced with a political and spiritual dilemma. The couple ends up getting married in a very small ceremony in the church. The priests want to keep it secret, but news gets back to her father through traders. Reverand Williams was shocked. How could she become Catholic and marry a savage?
As an adult, memories finally return to her of her former life and the raid; she blames her father for her mother's death. Long after her father dies, she returns to Massachusetts to see her brothers. Despite her family's prayers and petitions, she remains a Mohawk until her death. She is interested in receiving her share of her father's estate but is unable to receive it as a Mohawk.
John Demos certainly dug deep to write this story, but the book reads more like an historical narrative than a work of fiction. The reader will gain a lot of information about the French Mohawks as well as the conflict between the Puritans and Catholics during colonial times, but the narrator tells the story, rather than Eunice herself. This distant storytelling technique make the novel less immersive. Other book reviewers mention this problem likening it more to a biography than a work of historical fiction.
Although I can't dispute Mr. Demos's research, it feels like a bit of a stretch that Eunice is so immersed in the Mohawk culture that she totally forgets who she is. She is Caucasian with light hair and obviously looked very different than the people around her. Wouldn’t she have questioned that?
These concerns aside, I still think PURITAN GIRL, MOHAWK GIRL would be an interesting curriculum resource that will spark considerable classroom discussion.
February 27, 2018
Based on research that led to the writing of a similar book for adults, this one is pitched to a much younger audience. Exploring the meaning of family and different cultural ways of life, Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl follows the life of seven-year-old Eunice Williams who ends up living with a Mohawk family and leaving her English ways, including her language and other parts of her culture, behind. The story begins by describing Eunice's life in the Massachusetts colony where her father is a Puritan minister and where she has various assigned chores. But readers barely have a chance to process the way of life with which Eunice is familiar before she and several members of her family have been kidnapped by a band of Mohawks and taken to Canada. Eunice is understandably frightened and struggles during the journey to the French territory, but she also appreciates the kindness and consideration of Arakwente, the man who has brought her north. Over time, Eunice is embraced by his wife, Konwatieni, and becomes a true member of the tribe, even taking on the name of Gannenstenhawi and marrying Arosen, a man who befriends her. Her father, who was eventually freed, never quits trying to bring her home and fails to understand that the Puritan girl he once knew is no more. Although the way the story is told is a little bit detached, making it hard for readers to connect with the characters, this is a fascinating examination of how humans can adapt to whatever circumstances life throws them into as well as how easy it is to eradicate someone's culture, whether through gentle or cruel ways. I wish the story had been longer and that the author had been able to imagine more of what this young girl was feeling, possibly through showing glimpses of her own thoughts throughout her trials and her joys. The author hints at the deep resentment and anger on the part of the English settlers once she refuses to return home to her father, reactions that would be worth exploring more deeply. Still, despite my critical comments, I was glad to have read this book describing a unique childhood and growing up experience. Although there might be naysayers, it seemed clear to me that in many respects, Gannenstenhawi had a much richer life with the Mohawks where women had much of a say in matters and made many of the important decisions.
December 3, 2018
This was an impulse grab at the library when I saw it. I've been interested in Colonial American life for years now (with a growing emphasis on Native American relations to the colonists) and this felt perfect.
Let's just get it out of the way now: it's pretty obvious pretty quickly that fictional writing is not Demos's wheelhouse. The prose feels fairly lifeless throughout the story. Someone dies or something big happens and it's explained more reactionary: "Eunice cried herself to sleep" rather than something more like, "A sob bubbled up in Eunice's throat, the emotions choking her." You get my point, I hope. It felt elementary, like a child relating the day's events to a parent.
Which, in some ways, actually worked for the story. When it starts, Eunice is seven and that type of storytelling made sense, even if the narrator sort of made an appearance from time to time with some pointed comments. But as Eunice got older, it felt like it should have changed more, but it didn't. It's pretty emotionless.
But the story (and the actual history it's built on) is really interesting. Eunice Williams was actually a young Puritan girl growing up in the early 1700s Massachusetts. She was actually kidnapped by Native Americans and adopted into the tribe of her kidnapper (which was a standard Native American custom--the newcomer was taking the place of someone who had died in the tribe). And this outlines her story really well, filled with notes at the beginning and end about her life. I'm definitely going to read more about her.
I will not claim to be an expert on Native American tribes and customs, but from what I do know, this was pretty darn accurate. Things about the Mohawks, things about relations with the French and English, etc. I found no faults with the research. Just the writing style.
This is definitely a fast read and kind of a launchpad for introducing yourself/someone to early 18th century America through the French, English, and Native Americans in America and Canada.
Let's just get it out of the way now: it's pretty obvious pretty quickly that fictional writing is not Demos's wheelhouse. The prose feels fairly lifeless throughout the story. Someone dies or something big happens and it's explained more reactionary: "Eunice cried herself to sleep" rather than something more like, "A sob bubbled up in Eunice's throat, the emotions choking her." You get my point, I hope. It felt elementary, like a child relating the day's events to a parent.
Which, in some ways, actually worked for the story. When it starts, Eunice is seven and that type of storytelling made sense, even if the narrator sort of made an appearance from time to time with some pointed comments. But as Eunice got older, it felt like it should have changed more, but it didn't. It's pretty emotionless.
But the story (and the actual history it's built on) is really interesting. Eunice Williams was actually a young Puritan girl growing up in the early 1700s Massachusetts. She was actually kidnapped by Native Americans and adopted into the tribe of her kidnapper (which was a standard Native American custom--the newcomer was taking the place of someone who had died in the tribe). And this outlines her story really well, filled with notes at the beginning and end about her life. I'm definitely going to read more about her.
I will not claim to be an expert on Native American tribes and customs, but from what I do know, this was pretty darn accurate. Things about the Mohawks, things about relations with the French and English, etc. I found no faults with the research. Just the writing style.
This is definitely a fast read and kind of a launchpad for introducing yourself/someone to early 18th century America through the French, English, and Native Americans in America and Canada.
December 19, 2017
Demos, John Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl, 131 pages. Amulet (Abrams), 2017. $17. Content: G.
In 1704 the village of Deerfield in the Massachusetts colony was invaded by the French and their Indian compatriots and the citizens were either killed, captured, or left behind to starve or survive on their own. Eventually everyone was ransomed or returned except for one girl – Eunice. Eunice’s father was the minister of the town, and prominent in the area, and the French wanted to torture him and make an example of his daughter. Eunice, only seven, was adopted by an Indian family and quickly forgot her English and adapted to the native way of life. Even when she could have returned years later, she chose to never go back to the English way of life.
Back in 2001 Caroline Cooney wrote The Ransom of Mercy Carter, which covers the story of another girl from the same town. You should read that one instead. Demos tries so hard to stick to the strictly historical facts that he spends 90% of the book telling us the story instead of showing it to us. Since the book is considered fiction, I don’t understand his choices. Now someone needs to take this book as source material and write it in a way that will immerse us into Eunice’s compelling journey. Anyone know Caroline Cooney? Ann Rinaldi? Carolyn Meyer?
NO – Cindy, Library Teacher
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017/...
In 1704 the village of Deerfield in the Massachusetts colony was invaded by the French and their Indian compatriots and the citizens were either killed, captured, or left behind to starve or survive on their own. Eventually everyone was ransomed or returned except for one girl – Eunice. Eunice’s father was the minister of the town, and prominent in the area, and the French wanted to torture him and make an example of his daughter. Eunice, only seven, was adopted by an Indian family and quickly forgot her English and adapted to the native way of life. Even when she could have returned years later, she chose to never go back to the English way of life.
Back in 2001 Caroline Cooney wrote The Ransom of Mercy Carter, which covers the story of another girl from the same town. You should read that one instead. Demos tries so hard to stick to the strictly historical facts that he spends 90% of the book telling us the story instead of showing it to us. Since the book is considered fiction, I don’t understand his choices. Now someone needs to take this book as source material and write it in a way that will immerse us into Eunice’s compelling journey. Anyone know Caroline Cooney? Ann Rinaldi? Carolyn Meyer?
NO – Cindy, Library Teacher
http://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017/...
October 5, 2017
One can always count on John Demos to have done his research when it comes to any Colonial America or New England-based topics, and this book is no exception. This fictionalised account is another example of his wonderful dedication to these topics.
It isn't often that I can say I learned something from fiction, but with this author and his background as an historian, I definitely feel like I'm smarter about the Mohawk culture after reading this book. If you are looking for a book where you get a bird's eye view of what the world used to be like, this one will do nicely.
Whilst some may not feel like they get to know the characters on a friendly level, I think you have to keep in mind that this book is based on real events and that the amount of research that went into it is astounding. I think people of all ages would benefit from reading this book and walk away knowing much more than they started out with. I liked it, and encourage others to give it a chance and read this amazing story.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
It isn't often that I can say I learned something from fiction, but with this author and his background as an historian, I definitely feel like I'm smarter about the Mohawk culture after reading this book. If you are looking for a book where you get a bird's eye view of what the world used to be like, this one will do nicely.
Whilst some may not feel like they get to know the characters on a friendly level, I think you have to keep in mind that this book is based on real events and that the amount of research that went into it is astounding. I think people of all ages would benefit from reading this book and walk away knowing much more than they started out with. I liked it, and encourage others to give it a chance and read this amazing story.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
September 9, 2021
A simple and easy read, I assume this book could be used in a lower grade classroom as a book report source for history, despite it being labeled as fiction? I can’t remember how it was recommended to me but maybe it was because it was popular back in 2017? Or maybe because I like witchcraft, but this book has nothing to do with that.
I appreciated the fact that the book remains historically accurate, what with descriptions about how terrible colonization is and the belief that your religion is superior solely because you say so. I wish we would’ve gotten a little bit more of a personality for our main character, but you do care for her regardless, and her choice to stay out of America.
I don’t really want to rate it because it doesn’t really warrant one. It’s a very simple easy 100 page read with a very detailed biography, written by an author who deeply cared about the subject matter. I wouldn’t go into this book expecting very lavish details about native life or Puritan beliefs, but its sources do. Four stars because while I am not the intended target audience, I do feel it would be beneficial to a classroom learning environment.
I appreciated the fact that the book remains historically accurate, what with descriptions about how terrible colonization is and the belief that your religion is superior solely because you say so. I wish we would’ve gotten a little bit more of a personality for our main character, but you do care for her regardless, and her choice to stay out of America.
I don’t really want to rate it because it doesn’t really warrant one. It’s a very simple easy 100 page read with a very detailed biography, written by an author who deeply cared about the subject matter. I wouldn’t go into this book expecting very lavish details about native life or Puritan beliefs, but its sources do. Four stars because while I am not the intended target audience, I do feel it would be beneficial to a classroom learning environment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2017
*Thanks to NetGalley and Amulet Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.* 'Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl' is a fictionalised account of the true story of a young Eunice Williams, who along with her family, was taken captive from her town of Deerfield by members of the Mohawk tribe and marched to Canada. Eunice is soon split from her family and brought up by a Mohawk family. Her father, Reverend Williams and some of her siblings are eventually released and return home, never to give up their quest to be reunited with their sister and daughter. I found the novel relatively interesting and certainly learnt a fair bit about Mohawk customs at the time. I did not particularly feel emotionally connected to the characters, however and felt that more could have been done to flesh out the individuals in the story. Whilst the novel is based on a true story, at times the events did not seem particularly believable. Despite this, the book did keep my attention until the end and I enjoyed reading the author's notes at the end of the story.
February 11, 2018
Demo's adapted his "Unredeemed Captive" for a younger audience in this amazing story. This historical event happened in my area, and the 1704 Raid on Deerfield and subsequent march to Canada is just an incredible story. There is a lot to digest in just 148 pages, and Demos focuses on Eunice Williams childhood and early years. She was taken to Canada following the raid and adopted into a Mohawk home. We learn about the role religion played in those days, as well as the conflicts between the Puritan settlers, the Native Americans and the French. I would have preferred the book be told in the first person, as the the third person telling distanced the reader a bit from the action. The book is well researched and cited.
Overall though, a worthwhile read, especially for anyone in New England studying colonial history.
Overall though, a worthwhile read, especially for anyone in New England studying colonial history.
August 12, 2017
This book caught my attention because I have very good friends who belong to the Mohawk nation in Kahnawake, close to Montreal, Quebec, Canada. One of my friends, although Mohawk, is tall and white skinned and I am told it was because there was a white captive that was adopted into his tribe several generations ago.
Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl is an excellent way to teach history to middle grade children through storytelling. Although the main character, Eunice Williams really existed, most of the details are fictional but based on the daily life of the Mohawk people.
I remember reading a very similar story as a young girl entitled "Calico Captive". The story was similar but with a much different ending. I really enjoyed Eunice's story and found it to be quite a page turner.
Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl is an excellent way to teach history to middle grade children through storytelling. Although the main character, Eunice Williams really existed, most of the details are fictional but based on the daily life of the Mohawk people.
I remember reading a very similar story as a young girl entitled "Calico Captive". The story was similar but with a much different ending. I really enjoyed Eunice's story and found it to be quite a page turner.
September 13, 2017
Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl
A Novel
by John Demos
ABRAMS Kids
Amulet Books
Middle Grade
Pub Date 31 Oct 2017
I am reviewing a copy of Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl through Amulet Books and Netgalley:
In this book we are transported back to 1704 Deerfield Massachusetts. Eunice is kidnapped by the Mohawk and taken to Canada. Her Mother is killed and her brother Steven taken captive. Eunice father tried to convince her to come back to the settle but she choose to remain with her Mohawk family.
This book is a great introduction to young readers to the conflict between the Settlers and the Indians, but also it tells a story of love, forgiveness and acceptance.
I give Puritan Girl, Mohawk Girl five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
April 3, 2018
The fascinating story of Eunice Williams--a child kidnapped by the Mohawk Indians from her home in Deerfield, MA ca. 1700. I picked up this audiobook not realizing that it was meant for very young readers so I found the simplicity of the writing a bit annoying. The author clearly is a nonfiction author and not a children's book author by nature! The book felt a bit like a nonfiction narrative somewhat shaped into a novel (which is what it was). Because of this the writing seemed a bit trite in places and overly factual in others. Overall, it wasn't particularly well written or compelling but it made me want to learn more of Eunice "Kanenstenhawi" William's story. Let's hope his nonfiction writing is better than this! I'm looking forward to his real biography of her life.
April 12, 2018
This is a rare venture into middle grade fiction for me and I love reading about the psychology and history of captive children taken in raids by Native Americans...maybe it's because of a family legend about my great great great grandfather on the Texas side who made up his own white name after being raised by Native Americans after a wagon train raid. Whether that story has any truth or not who knows but this one does. Demos is a nonfiction writer and this reads like nonfiction. Unfortunately it is a bit dry with a lot of interesting historical information but not much feeling. It could have been more.
August 6, 2017
Based on the true story of the capture of Eunice Williams by the Mohawk people. I could see this used as a companion book in the study of Early American History. The story gives insights into the culture and beliefs of the Mohawk nation. It is interesting in the division of the Mohawk nation between two different colonial powers, the group that Eunice was living with in Canada under the influence of France and the Catholic priests and their relatives, south of Canada, which was under the control of the English and the Protestant religion.
I received a free ARC for an unbiased review.
I received a free ARC for an unbiased review.
January 8, 2018
I must admit I was disappointed, because I really wanted to love this book. It was interesting and informative, but the narrative was too detached when I desperately wanted to FEEL something for the characters. I suppose I was expecting something styled a bit more like Tanya Landman’s Buffalo Soldier (amazing - in fact I want to go read it again now) or Celia Rees’s Witch Child (wonderful). But it was more educational than engaging, and would probably be useful in the classroom when children are learning about early American history.
April 1, 2018
This is a historical fiction book meant for children, but was quite interesting for this senior adult. I think it would have been better written in first person by the protagonist Eunice Williams/A'ongote/Marguarite/Gannenstenhawi (her Puritan name/her young Mohawk name/her Catholic baptism name/ her older Mohawk name), but I realize this would have been difficult as the author is primarily a historian.
January 29, 2021
Here is a short, informative, interesting historical fiction based on the true story of a Puritan girl taken from Deerfield Massachusetts to be raised by Mohawks in Canada. There is a lot of non-fiction information dumping in the first pages that causes some jerking back and forth between a non-fiction feel and a story that might be told by the fireside. By the the second half, though, the prose is less facts and more story, making it a more engaging read.
January 12, 2018
This book didn't live up to my expectations. I was yearning for more description and a lot more of Eunice's point of view, feelings and thoughts instead of an historical summary of events. I enjoyed it for the historical facts it presented and I can see myself reading this to young children but I wouldn't recommend reading it for any literary value.
January 16, 2018
This is a children's version of The Unredeemed Captive (turned into a short historical fiction story) - While it was interesting, it's written for fairly young students - maybe elementary grades and is too simplified for the high school audience I was reviewing it for.
January 27, 2018
I remember when Unredeemed Captive came out. Such a haunting story overall. This version for kids is compelling. The author's additions seem appropriate and serve to make the story more accessible for the intended reader.
October 27, 2018
Slightly fictionalized history about a New England girl, which "everyone" knew about at the time it took place (over a period of years). Left me wondering what I would do in that situation. Forces you to ask questions about hard things.
May 10, 2020
Quick story with interesting connections to upstate and central NY, MA, and Canada. I didn't realize that this was an adaptation for young readers based on the author's books for adults before I read this.
April 10, 2024
The audiobook is a manageable 3 hours long, and the reader is great. I especially enjoyed reading the contrast in societies of Puritan and Mohawk, how Eunice adapted even after she was basically kidnapped and forced to live as a Mohawk. Their society was peaceful, and matriarchal
October 4, 2017
3.5 solid stars. Great middle grade read for those kids who are enthralled with history.
I received a free copy of this book to review via a Goodreads Giveaway.
I received a free copy of this book to review via a Goodreads Giveaway.
October 27, 2017
As an educator I felt this book would be a great addition to any classroom library. It would be interesting as well as educational.
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