Abby McGanney Nolan
Rosalyn Schanzer's latest book is a welcome initiation into a strange world of Salem Village, Mass., a sharp and succinct account that features black-and-white scratchboard art in the style of 17th-century woodcuts…
—The Washington Post
School Library Journal - Audio
Gr 5 Up—How could a court of law order the deaths of more than 20 innocent people? The 17th-century Salem witch trials are recounted in Rosalyn Schanzer's book (National Geographic, 2011) that perfectly captures the chilling events. When two young girls—Betty Parris, 9, and her cousin, 11-year-old Abigail, began contorting into strange postures, throwing things, and shrieking that they were being pinched, the people of Salem, MA, accused them of witchcraft, a crime punishable by death by hanging. As the trials continued, the accusers grew in number and their testimony became more and more powerful. Schanzer's account of these events relies heavily on the facts. She includes court testimonies and straightforward summations by the major players. Jessica Almasy's fast-paced narration is energetic, precise, and emotive. When reading court records, she alters her voice so listeners always know who is speaking. Be sure to have the award-winning book available so listeners can peruse Schanzer's evocative black-and-white ink prints with red accents.–Allison Bruce, The Children's Storefront, NY
OCTOBER 2012 - AudioFile
The Salem witch trials have intrigued historians, storytellers, and audiences for hundreds of years. Jessica Almasy’s performance adds to the intrigue. Her delivery evokes wonder and incredulity as she recounts the strange details of the event, many of which may seem nearly unimaginable today. Her tone is often irreverent when posing questions designed to entice listeners into the story. The text doesn’t aim to solve the mysteries associated with the famous trial. It’s a discussion of the facts, which Almsay delivers with an informal air, a youthful voice, and a quick pace. In dialogue, when she speaks for the accusers and the accused, her voice deepens, pulling the listener in with her conviction. A.M.P. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine
