Calico Captive
Calico Captive by Elizabeth George Speare, published by Clarion Books on October 29, 2001, is an illustrated work that immerses readers in the historical context of 1754 Charlestown, New Hampshire. The story begins with a sudden Indian raid that disrupts the tranquility of the town, leading young Miriam Willard into a harrowing journey as a captive amidst the turmoil of the French and Indian War. As she navigates the challenges of survival, her thoughts are intertwined with memories of her sweetheart, Phineas Whitney, and the cries of her sister’s baby, Captive, born during their arduous trek.
Readers will find a vivid portrayal of Miriam’s struggles as she endures the hardships of captivity and the uncertainty of her future. The narrative explores themes of resilience and the impact of war on personal lives, culminating in her arrival in Montreal, where she encounters the influential Du Quesne family. This edition, with its 288 pages, offers a unique glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of history, drawing from an actual narrative diary published in 1807. The book combines elements of children’s fiction and the experiences of captivity, making it a significant addition to historical literature.
Official synopsis Publisher
In the year 1754, the stillness of Charlestown, New Hampshire, is shattered by the terrifying cries of an Indian raid. Young Miriam Willard, on a day that had promised new happiness, finds herself instead a captive on a forest trail, caught up in the ebb and flow of the French and Indian War.
It is a harrowing march north. Miriam can only force herself to the next stopping place, the next small portion of food, the next icy stream to be crossed. At the end of the trail waits a life of hard work and, perhaps, even a life of slavery. Mingled with her thoughts of Phineas Whitney, her sweetheart on his way to Harvard, is the crying of her sister’s baby, Captive, born on the trail.
Miriam and her companions finally reach Montreal, a city of shifting loyalties filled with the intrigue of war, and here, by a sudden twist of fortune, Miriam meets the prominent Du Quesne family, who introduce her to a life she has never imagined. Based on an actual narrative diary published in 1807, Calico Captive skillfully reenacts an absorbing facet of history.
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