Starred review from December 1, 2011
Gr 7-9-Schanzer succinctly re-creates the hysteria, confusion, and tragedy of the Salem Witch Trials in this compact and evocative overview. In a conversational tone, she poignantly describes the religious fervor of the Puritans and the ease with which neighbors and family members accused one another (and even domestic animals) of witchcraft. From the "testimony" of witnesses, to the courtroom proceedings, and to the eventual realization that the accusations and trials were nearing epic in proportion, the author effortlessly guides readers through this bizarre moment in American history. Several theories regarding the causes for the witchcraft hysteria and the "fits" experienced by many of the accused are addressed, but no definite answers are promoted or advocated. Primary-source material consisting of courtroom testimony is woven throughout the narrative; spelling is modernized, and occasional passages are abridged for better understanding. The "What Happened Next" final chapter details the often-tragic ends for the unjustly accused; information on the accusers and the officials is also included. Schanzer's top-notch stylized black-and-white illustrations highlighted with small touches of red extend and enhance the text.-Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA
Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
November 1, 2011
Grades 5-8 The Salem witch trials is a topic amply covered in fiction and nonfiction, but Schanzer's take stands apart, thanks to her effective artwork. One of the main problems with telling the story is that there are so many people involved, from the accusers and the accused to the clergy and kith and kin. Simply reading the narrative, fresh as it is, might still confuse readers. So Schanzer provides black-and-white scratch-board illustrations, accented and heightened with a devilish red, beginning with small individual portraits of the cast. Throughout, it's the eye-catching art and the handsome design that will keep readers turning the pages. Not that the story itself isn't fascinating. Between the terror and torture, to say nothing of witches flying about on brooms and biting people, there's plenty to hold kids' attentions. But in spots where the narrative sags under the weight of its twists and turns, the imaginative pictures still make it sail.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)
January 1, 2012
Schanzer (How We Crossed the West: The Adventures of Lewis and Clark) turns her attention to the Salem Witch Trials to powerful effect. Her small book, complete with scratchboard illustrations and vivid red accents, recounts the horrors of the witch-hunting hysteria. Good organization and effective illustrations are helpful for keeping the complex material manageable for the audience. Bib., ind.
(Copyright 2012 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)