From School Library Journal
Grade 6-9-Ann Rinaldi's award-winning novel (Harcourt, 1993) is reminiscent of
Johnny Tremain. It features an orphaned bondservant, Rachel Marsh, who finds herself enmeshed in the furor that was pre-Revolutionary Boston prior to the Boston Massacre. Many historical personages are featured in the storyâ€"John, Abigail, and various other Adamses of Boston; Henry Knox; and soldier Matthew Kilroy. The tale melds history and fiction to give an excellent view of colonial Boston, its inhabitants, and the political and social attitudes that pervaded the city. Rachel discusses the role of women in society with Abigail Adams herself. The notion of colonial British-Americans discovering that they have become "plain Americans" and the philosophical changes that entailed is examined. Melissa Hughes gives an honest voice to narrator Rachel. Early, wistful readings tender an innocence that develops into confidence and assurance as the character grows in years, education, and confidence, lending believability to the narrative. The Adams' cook is referred to as a "nigra girl," which is historically accurate, but might be offensive to some. The story is sprinkled with mild oaths and finds Rachel chastely fending off the advances of soldier Matthew Kilroy. Rinaldi has scored a winner with this book, destined to be a classic, and Hughes ably provides a clear, crisp, and honest rendering.-
Mike Brown, Bowie High School, MD Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
--This text refers to the
Audio Cassette
edition.
