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How do I choose my favorite Newberry Award-winning novel? There are so many that I remember from childhood. Johnny Tremain, Island of the Blue Dolphins, The Witch of Blackbird Pond, Jacob Have I Loved and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry all come to mind. The toughest decision is between The Witch of Blackbird Pond and Jacob Have I Loved.

I will have to choose The Witch of Blackbird Pond simply because it is the first book that I recommended to my daughters when they became old enough to read this list of books. And I wasn't wrong; they both loved the book, too.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond is based in Connecticut during colonial times. A teen girl named Kit has to leave her tropical home in the Caribbean to move to dreary and cold Connecticut. How will Kit deal with the culture shock of going from a carefree island existence to the Puritan environment of the American colonies?

Her Puritan aunt and uncle highly disapprove of her carefree ways. All of the town is talking about her behavior. When she becomes friends with a woman known as the witch of Blackbird Pond, it is more than the townspeople will tolerate. When illness strikes the village, Kit finds herself not just at the center of town gossip, but fighting for her own life.

This book is an excellent way for your child to learn about the colonial history of America, especially the hysteria and superstitions that became pervasive during this time period. In my opinion, The Witch of Blackbird Pond bears some similarities to The Scarlet Letter.

The reader becomes attached to the characters, as they are very likable and well-rounded. This novel has other plot lines as well, resulting in a rich, intricate story. The Witch of Blackbird Pond teaches about being judgmental, but isn't preachy. Regardless of your age, if you read this young adult novel, you will remember it for years to come.

Learn more about this author, Angela Harris.
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