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Witch Child
Book Review
The fact it is based on a real diary makes it highly interesting
Witch Child is a book based upon a journal, written by a girl in the 1600s called “The Mary Papers’, who witnesses death and lives in fear that one day others will accuse her of being a witch too. In 1659; soon after the civil war, many innocent women were accused of witchcraft as others were scared of the power they adhered and sought to torture or kill these poor women.
I really enjoyed this story as it is quite unlike anything I’ve read before and I felt I learnt some things as well as enjoying the story. The fact it is based on a real diary makes it highly interesting.
The main theme that this book highlighted for me was how people fear what they don’t understand and don’t know. This, to me, shows that people back in the 17th century felt scared and powerless, fearing what they couldn’t control and wanted to be rid of these women so they could have some safety – clinging on to what they can control.
I like the fact that this book focuses on a women’s perspective as it is very insightful to see the inequality and superstitions that others put forward towards women and how these girls have to hide who they are in order to fit in amongst the rest.
My only criticism of this book would be that I felt that, although the ending was factually accurate, it was really left on an ambiguous note. I feel as a reader, we want more clarity but I understand that the ending is written as it is because the author staying true to the original journal.
Ultimately, I would definitely recommend this book for ages 12 and above.
But be advised – there are some quite horrifying moments – like the hanging of her grandmother, but I think it is definitely a book worth reading.
About the Book
Witch Child is a finely crafted historical fiction novel that has been enjoyed by teenage readers for over 20 years.
When Mary sees her grandmother accused of witchcraft and hanged for the crime, she is silently hurried to safety by an unknown woman. The woman gives her tools to keep the record of her days – paper and ink. Mary is taken to a boat in Plymouth and from there sails to the New World where she hopes to make a new life among the pilgrims. But old superstitions die hard and soon Mary finds that she, like her grandmother, is the victim of ignorance and stupidity, and once more she faces important choices to ensure her survival.
Author
Celia Rees
Celia Rees is a British author best known for her young adult historical and supernatural fiction, including 'Witch Child' and 'Pirates!'.Born in 1949 in Stratford-upon-Avon, she worked as a teacher before becoming a full-time writer. Her books often feature strong female protagonists and explore themes of independence, identity, and history.
Reviewer Profile
Millie, 15
- Reviews: 3
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