Canadian YA Historical fiction

Here's a few Canadian historical fiction I plowed through in the past week:

Bridget's Black 47 by Dorothy Perkyns



A quick read at 157 pp, this YA novel deals with the Irish potato famine and the subsequent Irish immigration to Canada. This book is not an indepth treatment of this period in Canadian history but gives a general idea of what happened in Ireland in the 1840's and how the Irish were forced to immigrate to North America. The story ends on a positive note and is sure to interest readers from Gr.5 to Gr. 9 inclusive.


The way lies north by Jean Rae Baxter.


A great story that held my interest throughout. Centered around Charlotte Hooper whose family are Tories and the effect the Revolutionary War has on their life, this historical fiction is filled with excitement. Forced to flee their home in the Mohawk Valley, Charlotte and her parents begin the long journey to freedom, to Canada. The Way Lies North mixes a bit of romance, tragedy and adventure with historical fact to provide a read that is both engaging and informative. A little lengthy at 340pp for some YA readers. Once Charlotte's family arrives in Canada, the plot slows but soon picks up to the satisfying end that most YA readers will expect.

Highly recommended for ages 12 to 15.

Book details:
Boo Details:
The Way Lies North
by Jean Rae Baxter

Ronsdale Press 2007
340pp