History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials

by Kate Messner Narrated by Deanna Anthony

Overview

Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth about the Salem Witch Trials in the hit History Smashers nonfiction series. Perfect for fans of the I Survived books and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales.

In 1692, a few paranoid Puritans accused their neighbors of being witches sending the town flying off the (broomstick) handle. Before it was all over, dozens of women in Salem, Massachusetts were executed-burned at the stake. RIGHT?

WRONG! There was some serious witch worry, but no one in the United States was put on a pyre (though the truth isn't much better). And women weren't the only ones caught in crossfire...maybe don't read this one aloud to your dog.

What really happened? The truth is historians aren't totally sure. But it is certain that religious beliefs, a changing world, and a few super nosy neighbors collided to spell disaster for one New England town. No joke!

From award-winning author Kate Messner comes the acclaimed nonfiction series that demolishes everything you thought you knew about history. And bust more puzzles of the past in History Smashers: Christopher Columbus and the Taino People, The Mayflower, and The Underground Railroad among others!

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

★ "A necessary addition for libraries serving tweens and teens, this is especially useful for reports and history curriculum." —School Library Journal, starred review

School Library Journal

★ 09/13/2024

Gr 4–9—The Salem Witch Trials is the subject of the ninth installment of the acclaimed nonfiction "History Smasher" series. Messner uncovers the myths about this tumultuous period in American history. Some of these include the practice of "burning witches at stake" and how solely women were part of the Salem Witch trials. The year is 1692, and the town of Salem, MA, is in hysterics: accusations are flying and any odd behavior could send one to trial for being a witch. Messner shares how the Salem Witch Trials came about, explaining the history of witchcraft in Europe with its witch-hunting fever, the Puritan religion, and societal fears. The use of primary sources, including historical documents and witness accounts, smashes many often-accepted "facts." The author also compares this time period to the scare tactics of the McCarthy Cold War era. Black-and-white cartoons and reproductions of primary sources will appeal to students, educators, and history buffs. Back matter includes a bibliography, time line, and an author's note; these resources give this well-researched book an additional layer of validity. VERDICT A necessary addition for libraries serving tweens and teens, this is especially useful for reports and history curriculum.—Nancy Hawkins

Product Details

BN ID:	2940160252049
Publisher:	Penguin Random House
Publication date:	08/13/2024
Series:	History Smashers Series , #9
Edition description:	Unabridged
Age Range:	8 - 11 Years

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