Witch-Hunt: Mysteries of the Salem Witch Trials by Marc Aronson

1.BIBLIOGRAPHY
Aronson, Marc. c2003. WITCH-HUNT: MYSTERIES OF THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS. New York: Atheneum Books for Young People. ISBN 06898486410

2.PLOT SUMMARY
The Salem Witch Tirals have intrigued and roused the curiosity of adults and adolescents for many years. Marc Aronson covers the topic as he tells what really happened during the trials in Salem Village in the late 1600s. He explains the trials, presents facts, myths and theories that surround teh trials as he provides a narrative of what actually took place. The book also includes a timeline of Puritan History and a notes and comments section that aids the reader in the understanding of the events of the Salem Witch Trials.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This is a book that I would recommend because Aronson does a great job of explaining teh events of the Salem Witch Trials. Students will want to read it because even though it is about events of the late 1600s, it is based on teenage girls who become the changing factor in the village. The book is organized chronilogically which makes it easy to understand. Aronson's narrative creates a book that explains the aspects of all the people, accusers, victims, judges, and families, involved in the witch trials. Through his writing, Aronson encourages readers to think for themselves. This would be a great addition to a middle or high school library.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS:
CHILDREN'S LITERATURE - "WITCH-HUNT is the curious and fascinating result of his latest inquiries. Taking the reader by the hand, Aronson walks him/her through the questions arising from the mass psychosis that overcame Salem in 1692."
KIRKUS- Starred Review "Not just about the trials but about the study of history itself, the volume includes a superb epilogue,notes and comments on trends in interpreting teh events, an a bibliography that offers a 'route map' for readers who want to research further."
VOYA - "Aronson offers a blend of primary source documentation, theory, and speculation about this compelling era. Challenged to llok beyond the few known facts, Aronson encourages readers to examine the accusers' motivations through many diverse theories."

5. CONNECTIONS:
*Divide students into groups to research the Puritan's beliefs on the specific topics, so they can better understand the role a Puritan believed played in society. Suggestions for topics: Woman, Slavery, Wealth and Work Ethic, Children Personal Responsibility.
* Create a map of Salem Town and Salem Village properties in 1692 with collor key indicating the accused and the accusers. What patterns emerge from a map that might not emerge from just reading a text accounts of the Salem Witch Trials?
* Students write an essay answering the following question: Based on your understanding fo the motives behind the accusers during the Salem Witch Trials, do you see humans as essentially good or evil? State your opinion and give at least 3 reasons in detail to support your position.