by Elizabeth George Speare and Esther Forbes

The Newbery Awards for excellence in children's literature were first given in 1921, and these three winners are engrossing tales of life in early America. The Witch Of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare is set in early Connecticut, and is the story of a girl whose rebellion against bigotry culminates in a witch hunt and trial. Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes takes place in Boston just before the Revolutionary War. Johnny, a young apprentice silversmith, finds himself involved with James Otis, John Hancock, and John and Samuel Adams in events that lead to the Boston Tea Party. And The Sign Of The Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare tells of Matt, a 12-year-old who must survive on his own in a cabin in the Maine wilderness until his father returns. Fortunately for Matt, he meets an Indian boy his age, Attean, and learns the ways of Native Americans. These three books are superb historical fiction, based on sound research and fact, that will keep readers from ages 10 to 14 entertained.