PILGRIM KATE

In view of the emphasis in our history on the period of the coming of the Pilgrims, there are comparatively few books that give one a human feeling of them. Here is one that fills that niche. The story starts with England in the reign of James I. Controversies over religion were rife, and Englishmen were turning their eyes to the New World. Fifteen year old Kate is happy enough with her horse and dog, a bit dissatisfied with her own looks when she sees her sister Meg, and surprised to find herself in the midst of intrigues, political and romantic. In the space of a year, Kate grows up, learns to view people and concepts from an adult angle. There's excitement in the decision to join the pilgrims and flee from England, and for the reader, it is a new sensation to feel a personal intimacy with one family on the Mayflower. The characterization is good- Kate is forthright, likable, something of a tomboy. Excellent background reading.