Who Would Like This Book:
Ann Petry’s take on the Salem Witch Trials brings a fresh perspective by focusing on Tituba, a real woman at the heart of the hysteria - specifically, an enslaved woman rarely given a voice in such tales. This book’s strength lies in Petry’s ability to blend historical fact with empathetic fiction, making the era come alive and drawing attention to the complex intersections of race, gender, and power. It’s a quick, accessible read, great for both YA and adult readers interested in history, social commentary, or untold perspectives. Fans of historical fiction, especially those tired of the usual viewpoints, will appreciate Tituba’s story.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers might find the pacing a bit slow, with the real witchcraft drama taking its time to kick off. If you’re looking for dramatics and spells from the start, you may have to wait. Others mentioned wishing the book tackled the horrors of slavery more directly - it’s present, but rarely addressed head-on. The simple narrative style, geared toward younger audiences, might feel basic or predictable if you’re after a more literary challenge or deep psychological complexity.
About:
'Tituba of Salem Village' by Ann Petry is a historical novel that delves into the Salem witch trials, focusing on Tituba, a slave woman who is tried as a witch. The book imagines the deeper relationships and conversations that could have led to the events of the trials, while staying true to known history. It portrays Tituba as a sympathetic character who is trapped by her circumstances and ultimately faces the cruelty of humans in forms such as bigotry, misogyny, and racism. The writing style of the book is simplistic yet compelling, with a twist ending that highlights the dark irony of slavery.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book touches on heavy themes, including racism, slavery, and the persecution of individuals, which may be triggering for some readers.
From The Publisher:
Tituba, the minister's slave, gazed into the stone watering trough. She did not see her own reflection. Instead, she saw a vision of herself, surrounded by angry people. The people were staring at her. Their faces showed fear.
That was several years ago. It is now 1692, and there is strange talk in Salem Village. Talk of witches. Several girls have been taken with fits, and there is only one explanation: Someone in the village has been doing the devil's work. All eyes are on Tituba, the one person who can tell fortunes with cards, and who can spin a thread so fine it must be magic. Did Tituba see the future that day at the watering trough? If so, Could she actually be hanged for practicing witchcraft?
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What can you read after
Tituba of Salem Village?
About the Author:
Ann Petry was the acclaimed author of the adult novel The Street, a groundbreaking literary work about life in Harlem, which sold over a million copies. She also wrote several books for young readers, including Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad, the story of the courageous and heroic woman who struggled and fought for her people before and during the Civil War.
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