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jedore's review
challenging
dark
informative
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
"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, and Classism
Moderate: Child death
Minor: Miscarriage and Rape
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