An Acquaintance with Darkness

An Acquaintance with Darkness by Ann Rinaldi, published by Harcourt Brace in 1999, is a historical juvenile fiction novel that spans 294 pages. The story follows fourteen-year-old Emily Pigbush, who, after the death of her mother, moves in with her uncle Valentine. As she navigates her new life, Emily becomes increasingly suspicious of her uncle’s late-night activities, suspecting him of being involved in body-snatching. Her internal conflict deepens as she grapples with her feelings of betrayal and the complexities of her uncle’s actions.

Readers will find a narrative that explores themes of trust and moral ambiguity set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Civil War period in the United States. As Emily uncovers the truth about her uncle’s activities, she is forced to confront her emotions and the implications of his choices, which, while illegal, ultimately serve a greater good. This edition provides a detailed glimpse into a young girl’s struggle with familial loyalty and ethical dilemmas during a tumultuous time in history.