Witch Child book review

Witch Child by Celia Rees

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I read this book many years ago when I was a teenager, and it has stuck with me. I mean to get back and read it again one day, because it is a truly enthralling read.

This book reads from the perspective of the main character, a young girl living in the 1600s. She is forced out of her “old world" home and travels across the sea with the Puritans to the "new world". Being from a family who is spiritually connected to the earth and magic, she is forced to try and hide her inner witch among the Puritans lest she find herself trailed and executed as a witch.

The pacing is great, and you really connect to the main character, Mary, right away. The writing is diary-like, so you are waiting eagerly to turn the pages and see how things turn out for Mary. I feel as though this is a great read for those in middle schools or above.

The book is by no means action-packed, but it aptly presents the subtle, lurking danger of those who were different during these times and how standing out could've meant death. I'd even offer that pairing this book with learning about the witch trials or Puritanical life would enhance younger readers' understanding of life at that time. I picked it up, because I have always been interested in witchcraft and its history and truly found a text that will stay with me all of my days.

If you are interested in historical fiction, witchcraft, early america, or thrillers, you should check this out!



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