Based on a True Story
By E.F. Abbott
This is another fantastic book in the “Based on a True Story” series. When Mary Jemison was 15 years old her family and neighbors were attacked by Native American and French soldiers. Of those taken captive, only Mary and a young boy were kept alive. Though the deaths of the others aren’t described, it is a traumatic occurrence and might be disturbing for younger readers. Mary comes to appreciate the Native American tribe that she lives with. She marries twice and names all her children after those family members who died. Much of the details in this book were taken from a recorded interview from Mary Jemison herself, that can be found in the book “A Narrative of the Life of Mrs. Mary Jemison” by James E. Seaver. I normally don’t pick up historical books, but this one, and the entire series, is so well written that it captured my attention right away and I highly recommend it.
Review by Teresa Edmunds, Westbrook Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 5-8
Based on a True Story
Mary Jemison: Native American Captive
Written by Jane Kelley (writing as E.F. Abbott)
Feiwel and Friends
213 pages
Release Date: February 16, 2016
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
