It is the year of 1647. This is a time where a man who calls himself The Witchfinder General has whipped up a frenzy of hate towards any woman who uses herbs to heal, is left-handed, or just different. He’s made everyone believe these women are witches!

Villagers across the land are hungry and poor and many leap at the chance to be paid for information about possible witches among them. Women are being rounded up by soldiers and taken away.

12 yr old Art Flynt and her mother hide in their attic, knowing their time left together is not long. Soldiers are on their way. Art has an escape plan but her mother cannot. Moments before they are discovered by the soldiers, Art slips away, already determined to save her mother.

Her mother left her with a letter only to be opened when she is safe. This letter tells Art of witch trials and murder. These trials are scheduled on the summer solstice (the longest day), which is only a week away. The letter also gives Art advice, love and courage.

And so begins Art’s journey. She meets others along the way, and is wary of all. Some support the evil Witchfinder General, but some are wise and helpful. Art must remember all she has been taught and use her wits and skills well if she is ever to save her mother from the noose.

A historical tale full of courage, adventure and rich in plant and herb lore. Much folklore and superstition are shared along the way, friendships are made and the reader can experience a time based on fact. Matthew Hopkins was a self-imposed Witch Hunter from 1644 to 1647.

Author – Amy Raphael

Illustrator – August Ro

Age – 8+

 Quick Read Review

12 yr old Art Flynt has escaped moments before her mother was deemed a witch and taken away for a summer solstice witch trial. Determined to save her, Art must dig deep into her courage, remember her sword fighting lessons from her brother, and her plant and herb healing teachings from her mother. Time is ticking with only seven days before the trials.

(Hachette, 2021, Witch trials, Hangings, Herbal health, Bark and plants for healing, Horse, Sword fight, Castle, Trust, Courage, Rescue, Nightmares, Bad dreams, Action, Adventure, Family, Historical, Murder, Poverty, Witch hunter)