Friday, December 28, 2012

Book Review No 37: Caleb's Crossing by Geraldine Brooks

It took me a little while to warm to this story, but the more I read the more I became engrossed in it. I don't read a lot of historical fiction, but will be more open to it after reading Caleb's Crossing.

Bethia is a teenaged minister's daughter in 17th century Massachusetts, who yearns to break free of the chains her gender place on her in the tiny settlement of Great Rock. Meeting a young man named Caleb changes her life forever and their lives remain entwined as he sets forth on the journey of becoming the first Native American to graduate from Harvard College.

Bethia faces tremendous hardship and heartbreak in her young life and you cannot help but warm to her indomitable spirit as she continues to survive what life throws at her.

The way the author has taken a tiny, historical detail and weaved a story of love, loss and ambition against all odds is truly magical. The historical detail is amazing and the writing itself is also mesmerising. Flowing and lyrical, you cannot help but become engaged in it.        

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