Time of the Witches - Anna Myers, author
Summary (from Goodreads): Orphaned at the age of four, Drucilla finally has a place she can call home with her new family, the Putnams, of Salem Village. But when a new reverend and his family move into town with their servant Tituba, life takes a strange and dangerous turn as accusations of witchcraft swirl. Dru is overwhelmed by the fervor of lies and the power of groupthink among the other girls in town; reluctant to turn her back on the Putnams, she utters her own accusations. Only her best friend Gabe sees through the deceit, but it may be too late for Dru to protect the truth, and innocent people will pay the ultimate price.
My Review: This book was thrilling to read; it gives an in-person description of the Salem Witch Trials. Drucilla, the protagonist, is an active participant in the witch hysteria, despite her conscience urging her not to be absorbed by the times. Her helplessness at the hands of Ann Putnam is very compelling; readers can definitely understand the dangerous position she is stuck in. The ending is unexpected, but it is a stronger ending than what one would normally find, so I found it satisfying (and it set up the story for a sequel, although I'm not sure there is one). This novel would be an excellent choice for a text set or lesson about the power of group thinking and suggestibility.
