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My Lady Pocahontas
Neetah, Pocahontas's Pamunkey friend and servant, could hear the words princess and My Lady whispered from the lips of the white men who had settled in the colony they called Jamestown.
Pocahontas, the daughter of the Supreme Chief of the Confederacy, was important in their eyes, and Neetah, too, could see something special within her bold friend.
She accompanied Pocahontas to Jamestown regularly, to this fort of smelly, hairy men whose food supply was slowly disappearing. The girls' mission was clear: to protect the Confederacy by finding out as much as they could about these strangers and report back to the Supreme Chief. But the daring Pocahontas, led by visions, had other intentions as well. My Lady Pocahontas tells an important early chapter of America's history from the Pamunkey viewpoint as the drama of two clashing cultures unfolds. Author's note and bibliography included.
Pocahontas, the daughter of the Supreme Chief of the Confederacy, was important in their eyes, and Neetah, too, could see something special within her bold friend.
She accompanied Pocahontas to Jamestown regularly, to this fort of smelly, hairy men whose food supply was slowly disappearing. The girls' mission was clear: to protect the Confederacy by finding out as much as they could about these strangers and report back to the Supreme Chief. But the daring Pocahontas, led by visions, had other intentions as well. My Lady Pocahontas tells an important early chapter of America's history from the Pamunkey viewpoint as the drama of two clashing cultures unfolds. Author's note and bibliography included.
273 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2006
11 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen V. Kudlinski
45 books23 followersKathleen Kudlinski is the author of 40 children’s books. Her works range from picture books to the YA level and include natural history, biographies and historical novels.
When not writing, she is a popular speaker and writing instructor. Building on a BS in Biology and six years of classroom teaching experience, Kathleen later trained as a “Master Teaching Artist” with the Connecticut Commission on the Arts as well as presenting at regional and national conferences. Now she eagerly Skypes with classroom, book-, and home-school groups, world-wide.
In her spare time, she paints and leads several SCBWI (Society of Childrens Book Writers and Illustrators) critique groups, and teaches writing for children.
She writes at home beside a deep, wild lake in Guilford CT or at her woodland cabin in Weathersfield, VT with a a rescue macaw clinging to her shoulder and a pitbull warming her feet.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 2, 2013
We all know some version of the story of Pocahontas saving John Smith, but the true story of the daughter of the Powhatan chieftan is lost to history. This novel aimed at older teens and adults imagines the gaps in the story of Pocahontas. When the reader first meets Pocahontas, she's a mischievous woman-child of about 12. She enlists the aid of Nuttagwon, a girl from another tribe to help her spy on the strangers that have come to the shores of Virginia. The two girls become heroes to the Powhatan for the knowledge they bring of the strangers. Nuttagwon is adopted into the royal family and given a new name, Neetah, meaning friend. Pocahontas believes that she has been given a vision to bring about peace between her people and the pale strangers and tries her hardest to get her father to trade with them. Neetah is more suspicious, thinking the strangers are smelly and rude, but she's a loyal friend to Pochontas and will remain by her friend's side as long as Pocahontas needs her. Neetah's loyalty will be tested time and time again as the relationship between the English and the Powhatan progresses and then degenerates. This is an emotional story that provides a vivid portrait of a real life historical figure through the eyes of a fictional friend. The author's extensive, hands-on research provides the rich details of this story (a far cry from Disney). The reader is taken into a world that's long gone and becomes a part of the Powhatan Confederacy along with Neetah. The author holds nothing back about life in the 17th century. Her strength is in the details about the largely unknown Powhatan culture, which she has based on modern scholarship and the traditions of Virginia Indians and other eastern Algonquin speaking people. Pochontas is a well-rounded character that the reader empathizes with as she is troubled by her visions and tries to do what she thinks is right, sometimes in spite of her father's wishes. The reader also comes to know and care about Neetah, the narrator of the story, as she struggles with her decisions to remain loyal to Pocahontas even though she really wants to return to her home in the hills, marry and have a family.
The story is incredibly compelling and though I knew of Pochontas's untimely death, I was captivated by the story and eager to know what happened to Neetah (a fictional character). I couldn't put the book down though I did not like the unhappy ending (though I appreciate the historical accuracy). This book is unforgettable and I highly recommend it for people ages 14 and up, especially adults who may have an interest in Native cultures.
The story is incredibly compelling and though I knew of Pochontas's untimely death, I was captivated by the story and eager to know what happened to Neetah (a fictional character). I couldn't put the book down though I did not like the unhappy ending (though I appreciate the historical accuracy). This book is unforgettable and I highly recommend it for people ages 14 and up, especially adults who may have an interest in Native cultures.
January 31, 2014
I was one of those little girls running around pretending I was Pocahontas for several years after the Disney movie came out, even at the time knowing that not all of that movie was exactly true. But my imagination was stoked and I, like many, fell under the spell of this spectacular American legend. Getting more into the facts only increased the wonder and mystery. Yes, Pocahontas and her story is an incredible one.
Which makes it hard to believe this was a tough book to slog through.
The events of Pocahontas' life from girlhood to her untimely death are presented in story form, largely from the perspective of her loyal friend Neetah. It's a nice arrangement, giving us the Pocahontas story we crave as well as the story of a girl I liked even more than her famous friend. Though I'm not entirely sure where historical facts end and fiction begins Kudlinski paints a fascinating landscape of this time of early settlers. There is much harshness and misfortune on all parts, resulting in a gritty reading that ensnares the mind.
But despite this great and dramatic material, something in the magic of storytelling doesn't make it. Pocahontas is portrayed as a truly strong young woman who does her best to follow her visions and create peace who happens to be a tad boy-crazy, as some might say. Neetah is quieter, more attached to her native ways, and was the character I liked best. Again, good material for characters, but the girls never came alive for me. The storytelling is so stiff and rushed the characters drowned in the waves of one event after another. Though these events themselves interested me, I had trouble reading and often found myself distracted.
As far as historical fiction goes, this does a fine job in regards to historical events. The concepts? There was some great intent and lots of heart. But something was missing, something that could have risen the story and character elements above the slog of events to make this magical.
Which makes it hard to believe this was a tough book to slog through.
The events of Pocahontas' life from girlhood to her untimely death are presented in story form, largely from the perspective of her loyal friend Neetah. It's a nice arrangement, giving us the Pocahontas story we crave as well as the story of a girl I liked even more than her famous friend. Though I'm not entirely sure where historical facts end and fiction begins Kudlinski paints a fascinating landscape of this time of early settlers. There is much harshness and misfortune on all parts, resulting in a gritty reading that ensnares the mind.
But despite this great and dramatic material, something in the magic of storytelling doesn't make it. Pocahontas is portrayed as a truly strong young woman who does her best to follow her visions and create peace who happens to be a tad boy-crazy, as some might say. Neetah is quieter, more attached to her native ways, and was the character I liked best. Again, good material for characters, but the girls never came alive for me. The storytelling is so stiff and rushed the characters drowned in the waves of one event after another. Though these events themselves interested me, I had trouble reading and often found myself distracted.
As far as historical fiction goes, this does a fine job in regards to historical events. The concepts? There was some great intent and lots of heart. But something was missing, something that could have risen the story and character elements above the slog of events to make this magical.
August 31, 2015
My Lady Pocahontas is a historical fiction. While Pocahontas was a real person, Nuttagwon - later renamed Neetah, meaning friend - was a fictional character. The book is told through Neetah's point of view, who Pocahontas befriends in the beginning of the book.
I first learned about Pocahontas after watching the Disney cartoon. Growing up Pocahontas was my favorite Disney princess, and she still is. Though I was still a child when the movie was released, my parents did tell me that Pocahontas was a real person. And they told me what really happened to her.
My interest in Pocahontas has never weaned and although I have probably read everything there is to know about her, I still enjoy reading history and fictional books about her.
From what I read about Pocahontas, she was a interesting and in my opinion, courageous woman. She lived in a time of great change and I can't even begin to imagine how hard that would have been. I am sure she made some very hard choices in her short time on this earth. I only wish there were more known about her.
Like I said, in My Lady Pocahontas is seen through the eyes of Neetah, whose life changes rapidly after meeting Pocahontas. I felt that the book started off slow, but it did get better. Overall, I did like the story.
The characters weren't bad, but I didn't entirely like the portrayal of any of the characters.
I liked the author's note at the end and I think the author is right when she says that maybe people fascination with Pocahontas is because she inspires.
It was still a enjoyable read and those who are interested in Pocahontas will like it.
I first learned about Pocahontas after watching the Disney cartoon. Growing up Pocahontas was my favorite Disney princess, and she still is. Though I was still a child when the movie was released, my parents did tell me that Pocahontas was a real person. And they told me what really happened to her.
My interest in Pocahontas has never weaned and although I have probably read everything there is to know about her, I still enjoy reading history and fictional books about her.
From what I read about Pocahontas, she was a interesting and in my opinion, courageous woman. She lived in a time of great change and I can't even begin to imagine how hard that would have been. I am sure she made some very hard choices in her short time on this earth. I only wish there were more known about her.
Like I said, in My Lady Pocahontas is seen through the eyes of Neetah, whose life changes rapidly after meeting Pocahontas. I felt that the book started off slow, but it did get better. Overall, I did like the story.
The characters weren't bad, but I didn't entirely like the portrayal of any of the characters.
I liked the author's note at the end and I think the author is right when she says that maybe people fascination with Pocahontas is because she inspires.
It was still a enjoyable read and those who are interested in Pocahontas will like it.
October 22, 2008
Not horrible, but kind of boring. It took to long and I didn't like how it was told out of Neetah's POV. Not only that, but Pocahontas is made to be just a girl who goes after different guys.
September 6, 2018
Beautifully written fictionalized account of the life of Pocahontas. Though this story is considered fiction, the author did extensive research on the life of this real Native American woman. Kudlinski visited European venues where Pocahontas is said to have visited; did extensive research into the person we know as Pocahontas.
The story took a chapter or two for me to get into but once I had read perhaps 30 pages I was hooked. The story is not romanticized; it is brutal and blunt and provides a window into what was a very tragic life. Though it is tragic, there is beauty and joy to be found between these two covers.
The story took a chapter or two for me to get into but once I had read perhaps 30 pages I was hooked. The story is not romanticized; it is brutal and blunt and provides a window into what was a very tragic life. Though it is tragic, there is beauty and joy to be found between these two covers.
March 23, 2020
This one is a tough one to review. It was a long story that seemed to have many different story lines and situations. I would recommend it if you’re into reading a fictional account of Pocahontas, and it gives her new life. I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re not interested in reading a simple historical fiction.
March 20, 2018
Amazing how she was able to live in both worlds.
September 6, 2016
Summary:
Neetah, Pocahontas's servant, tells her story of what she witnesses between Pocahontas and the new settlers. We see the trials that Pocahontas has to go through in order to walk this strange line between the newcomers and her tribe. Neetah is a little more reserved than Pocahontas who is both a representative of the tribe and a teenage girl. Overall, it is a real interpretation of what the 17th century was like. The description of rituals and diminishing food supplies are very real. There is a good blend or realism and fiction.
My thoughts:
Overall this is a very interesting tale. Neetah is a likeable narrator. Pocahontas is not the perfect girl we always think of her as being, but she is a teenager and that is definitely important. This is one of those times where I'd like to think we are getting the untold story. Since females were so often told only in their importance to men, this is a story that flips everything around. Pocahontas, although not the narrator, is the focus of the story. Her contribution to history is definitely highlighted more than her usefulness to the settlers. I was honestly hoping that this would be a riveting tale that I wouldn't be able to put down. Unfortunately, it's not. This reads much like a textbook. The storytelling is just not what it could have been. The pacing is very slow and it was difficult to finish. If it is difficult to finish for me, then I can't imagine a reluctant reader will get through it. While I will put this into my library, I can't imagine it's going to fly off the shelf, which is really too bad.
Neetah, Pocahontas's servant, tells her story of what she witnesses between Pocahontas and the new settlers. We see the trials that Pocahontas has to go through in order to walk this strange line between the newcomers and her tribe. Neetah is a little more reserved than Pocahontas who is both a representative of the tribe and a teenage girl. Overall, it is a real interpretation of what the 17th century was like. The description of rituals and diminishing food supplies are very real. There is a good blend or realism and fiction.
My thoughts:
Overall this is a very interesting tale. Neetah is a likeable narrator. Pocahontas is not the perfect girl we always think of her as being, but she is a teenager and that is definitely important. This is one of those times where I'd like to think we are getting the untold story. Since females were so often told only in their importance to men, this is a story that flips everything around. Pocahontas, although not the narrator, is the focus of the story. Her contribution to history is definitely highlighted more than her usefulness to the settlers. I was honestly hoping that this would be a riveting tale that I wouldn't be able to put down. Unfortunately, it's not. This reads much like a textbook. The storytelling is just not what it could have been. The pacing is very slow and it was difficult to finish. If it is difficult to finish for me, then I can't imagine a reluctant reader will get through it. While I will put this into my library, I can't imagine it's going to fly off the shelf, which is really too bad.
August 30, 2011
How could Pocahontas be so foolish?" Chawnzmit showed off to everyone, a clear sign of weakness in a man. He smelled, as all the strangers did. And he was rude! Seen through the eyes of Neetah, friend and adopted sister of Pocahontas, her story of bridging two cultures and bringing peace comes to life. From spy on the white men, to love and rejection, to conversion and a trip to England, Pocahontas struggled to fulfill her vision of the future and save her people.
March 19, 2010
This book was much better than I expected! I am actually glad I read it. It is definitely not the "Disney" Pocahontas story, which I was glad to see- way more historically accurate. I wouldn't say it was one of my most favorites ever but I would recommend it. I really liked the Pumunky (spelling?) words in the novel and the approach she took in telling this story.
February 12, 2016
An interesting take on who the true Pocahontas might have been. Unfortunately, this book wasn't a nail biter; it was easy to put down. Also, although the author says she wrote the book because she was fascinated by Pocahontas, the book actually shows her in a poor light, with Neetah being the star. Nonetheless, I like how the book spins the English in such a poor light; I'm embarrassed to be one.
July 19, 2016
Compelling! The cover makes it look like you're going to learn that Pocahontas was actually a dude in drag, but fear not: it's just another grand retelling of her story, this time from the POV of a companion.
March 13, 2010
SUCHHHHHHHH AAAA GOOOOOD BOOOOOOOOOOOOKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! its so hard to explain just take my word for it. ITS GRAND!!!!!!!! :D
March 27, 2010
This is a novel that was so good. I would like to read Kathleen V. Kudlinski again.
August 5, 2010
Wish there were half stars, I really didn't like the story, but found the history interesting.
February 18, 2014
An amazing book with a tragic ending
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews