51 pages • 1 hour read
John Putnam DemosThe Unredeemed Captive: A Family Story from Early America
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1994A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Unredeemed Captive: A Family Story from Early America by John Putnam Demos narrates the story of the 1704 Mohawk raid on Deerfield, Massachusetts, capturing 112 residents, including seven-year-old Eunice Williams. Abducted by Mohawk warriors, Eunice assimilates into Kahnawake culture, forgetting English, marrying a Mohawk man, and refusing to return to Puritan life, despite her family's efforts. The book highlights themes of multiculturalism and colonial influence in early America, using primary sources to explore the intersecting histories of Native American, French, Canadian, and British peoples. The narrative deals with sensitive topics such as violent conflict, cultural assimilation, and familial separation.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
John Putnam Demos' The Unredeemed Captive is praised for its detailed historical research and compelling narrative about cultural encounters in colonial America. Critics appreciate its vivid storytelling and empathy for its subjects, though some find it dense and occasionally meandering. Overall, it's acclaimed for bringing history to life through personal stories.
Who Should Read The Unredeemed Captive?
Readers who enjoy meticulously researched historical narratives with a focus on early American history and cross-cultural relations will appreciate The Unredeemed Captive by John Putnam Demos. Fans of James Axtell’s The Invasion Within and Nathaniel Philbrick's Mayflower will find this book particularly engaging.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
1030L