Did you hear what happened in Salem? The witch trials of 1692

This gripping book about the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 is a welcome addition to other works on the topic. An unnamed narrator (revealed by the end of the book) who claims to have witnessed it all recounts the horrific events that resulted in 19 people hanged, a man crushed to death, and two dogs killed, in addition to lives and reputations irretrievably damaged. The conversational and chatty narrator uses modern slang that mitigates the unrelentingly grim details of the events. Suppositions explain the accusers' motives because factual evidence against the accused was nonexistent or incomplete at the time. Viewed from a modern perspective, the evidence is often absurd or laughable, yet the consequences are deadly serious. Kennedy convincingly explains how seemingly far-fetched and nonexistent evidence could convict so many people without proof because the power of persuasion was (and still is) so compelling. She makes the connection between the witch hunts and the prevalent misinformation of today, noting how it could happen again. Thornborrow's unsettling full-page illustrations effectively depict the events surrounding the trials. Readers who appreciate haunting true crime tales will find this title in the Did You Hear What Happened? series irresistible. Includes a who's who, a roll call of the deceased, an author's note, further reading, and a witch cake recipe.

A history professor tackles the Salem witch trials. With this comprehensive work, Kennedy floods readers with extensive detail about the key players, political machinations, and social dynamics that fueled the crisis. Her research is undeniably impressive, and the cultural context is rich, exploring everything from Puritan beliefs to the Little Ice Age's impact on witch accusations across Europe. The book reads largely as straightforward nonfiction, with occasional rhetorical questions or statements from the narrator ("Do you suppose people jumped onto the pews to get a better look?" "You remember Giles Corey, who testified against his wife, Martha, on March 21?") that feel more like a modern voice commenting on historical events. The sheer volume of names, dates, and interconnected relationships results in a dense reading experience that may overwhelm those with little prior knowledge. While the "Who's Who" guide will help them navigate the cast of characters, this thorough work will be most appreciated by students who already have some context; these readers--especially those eager to learn more--will be satisfied, as will many adults with an interest in the topic. Moody, shadowy black-and-white illustrations break up the text. A meticulously researched account for those with a serious interest in the subject. (author's note, further reading, recipe)(Nonfiction. 10-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.