Step into the spellbinding world of the Witch Child series by Celia Rees, where a young girl’s secret powers clash with the harsh realities of 17th-century witch hunts! This gripping historical fiction saga follows Mary Newbury, a teenage witch navigating persecution, prejudice, and the search for belonging in a world that fears her gifts. Blending rich historical detail with subtle magical realism, the series captivates readers with its poignant themes and unforgettable heroine.
With its diary-style narrative and evocative settings, Witch Child pulls you into Mary’s journey from Cromwellian England to the rugged shores of colonial America. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, young adult adventures, or stories of resilience, this series offers a thrilling ride that’s both thought-provoking and deeply moving.
How Witch Child Began
Celia Rees, a British author with a passion for history, crafted the Witch Child series inspired by her studies of 17th-century witch persecutions and the isolation of early American settlers. While visiting the American Museum near Bath, Rees imagined a young girl caught between two worlds: one that condemned her as a witch and another that might revere her gifts. Published in 2000 by Bloomsbury, Witch Child emerged as a standout young adult novel, earning praise for its historical authenticity and emotional depth.
Rees, a former history teacher, wove her academic background into the series, grounding Mary’s story in the paranoia and religious fervor of the era. Her vision expanded into a sequel, Sorceress, to continue Mary’s legacy through a modern descendant, blending past and present in a unique narrative arc.
The Heart of Witch Child
The Witch Child series comprises two books: Witch Child and its sequel, Sorceress. In Witch Child, set in 1659, Mary Newbury witnesses her grandmother’s execution for witchcraft and flees England for Salem, Massachusetts. Through her secret diary, Mary records her struggles to hide her healing powers among intolerant Puritans, forging bonds with Native Americans and kindred spirits. The story’s tension lies in Mary’s tightrope walk as an outsider, balancing her identity against a backdrop of suspicion and betrayal.
Sorceress picks up Mary’s tale through Agnes, a modern-day Native American girl with visions of Mary’s life. This sequel explores Mary’s later years, her embrace of independence, and her connection to a Native American community that values her abilities. The series delves into themes of prejudice, female empowerment, and cultural acceptance, contrasting the rigid Puritan society with the spiritual depth of indigenous beliefs. Rees’ prose, vivid and accessible, brings the 17th-century wilderness to life while highlighting Mary’s inner strength and resilience.
The diary format adds intimacy, making Mary’s voice feel raw and immediate. The blend of historical fiction with paranormal elements—like Mary’s subtle magic—creates a haunting yet hopeful tone, appealing to readers who love stories of survival and self-discovery.
Why Witch Child Resonates
Over two decades since its debut, the Witch Child series remains a beloved staple in young adult literature, celebrated for its nuanced take on religious intolerance and female independence. Shortlisted for the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize and winner of the Prix Sorcières, Witch Child has been translated into 25 languages and adopted in UK school curriculums. Its exploration of prejudice and the power of public opinion feels timeless, resonating with readers navigating today’s polarized world.
Fans praise Mary’s relatable struggle to find her place, while educators value the series’ ability to spark discussions on history, spirituality, and identity. By centering a strong female protagonist who defies societal norms, Rees crafted a narrative that inspires readers to embrace their differences and challenge injustice.
- Publication Years: Witch Child (2000), Sorceress (2002)
- Awards: Shortlisted for Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize (2001), Prix Sorcières (2003)
- Books: 2
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Paranormal
Dust off your diary and dive into Witch Child! Join Mary Newbury’s unforgettable journey through a world of secrets, survival, and self-discovery—perfect for fans of historical adventures with a touch of magic!