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3.7 AVERAGE
3.7 AVERAGE
I decided I don't like Brooks' writing style, so I don't think I'll start anymore of her novels
Once again Geraldine Brooks has managed to evoke a voice from the distant past - one that I very quickly connected with and felt drawn towards. Bethia is one of those characters that get under your skin. Like Anna of 'Year of Wonders', we see the world of Puritan Massachusetts through Bethia's eyes, and I could not help but think of all of those things that we, as women and as people, now take for granted. A thorougly readable book and a welcome addition to my collection of Geraldine Brooks' novels.
challenging
dark
informative
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
"Does any woman ever count the grains of her harvest and say: Good enough? Or does one always think of waht more one might have laid in, had the labor been harder, the ambition more vast, the choices more sage?"
If you're looking for a captivating blend of history and women's fiction, Caleb's Crossing is a must-read. Set in the U.S. colonies in the early to mid-1600s, the story follows Bethia, a young Protestant woman living on Martha's Vineyard, and Caleb, the first Native American to graduate from Harvard. Despite its title, the narrative primarily revolves around Bethia's struggles and experiences.
I absolutely loved this book! Not surprising since it weaves a woman-centered tale that delves into the complexities of identity, culture, and religion in the U.S. of the 1600's. While Caleb's journey to Harvard serves as a backdrop, it's Bethia's story of resilience and self-discovery that truly shines.
As I mentioned, the title totally threw me. I was expecting Caleb to be the main character, so I was quite surprised to find out it was actually Bethia. It was all good though as her compelling story had the added benefit of shedding light on the plight of women AND Native Americans in colonial America.
Despite its slow pace and the seriously depressing exposé of the negative impact of Christianity on women and Native Americans, the story held my attention to the end because of Brooks' meticulous research and masterful storytelling.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Genocide, Sexism, Religious bigotry, Death of parent, Cultural appropriation, Colonisation, Classism
Moderate: Child death
Minor: Miscarriage, Rape
A little slow to start, and a bit of a pat ending, but still engrossing. I gobbled up the second half in one sitting.
informative
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Violence
Minor: Sexual assault
Geraldine Brooks is a great author. She manages to write beautiful prose - often like poetry - without weighing down the story. This was a great story inspired by an inspiring historical figure. I look forward to reading her other books!
it was a fun read, I enjoyed the discussion about trying to walk in multiple world's.
This is a nicely done historical fiction firmly anchored in history and real people. It is told through the voice of a minister's daughter living on Martha's Vineyard in the 17th century. A rich story of love, loss, friendship, hardship that is a rude awakening and deeply inspirational to those of us who have forgotten how hard life was in 17th century New England for all people. I appreciate the insight into the struggles of the time for people of race, class or gender different from that of the "ruling" group. I also loved the authentic voice of the narrator, and learned many now obsolete words and expressions. I loved this story, i highly recommend it!
Engaging characters, stellar writing, riveting storytelling... :)