History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials

History Smashers #9

by Kate Messner, Falynn Koch (illustrator)

Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth about the Salem Witch Trials in the hit History Smashers nonfiction series. Perfect for fans of the I Survived books and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales.In 1692, a few paranoid Puritans accused their neighbors of being witches sending the town flying off the (broomstick) handle. Before it was all over, dozens of women in Salem, Massachusetts were executed—burned at the stake. RIGHT?WRONG! There was some serious witch worry, but no one in the United States was put on a pyre (though the truth isn't much better). And women weren’t the only ones caught in crossfire…maybe don’t read this one aloud to your dog.What really happened? The truth is historians aren’t totally sure. But it is certain that religious beliefs, a changing world, and a few super nosy neighbors collided to spell disaster for one New England town. No joke!From award-winning author Kate Messner comes the acclaimed nonfiction series that demolishes everything you thought you knew about history. And bust more puzzles of the past in History Christopher Columbus and the Taino People, The Mayflower, and The Underground Railroad among others!

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Middle Grade, Childrens, Historical, Juvenile, Graphic Novels

224 pages, Library Binding

Published August 13, 2024

About the author

Kate Messner is an award-winning author, TED 2012 speaker, and former middle school English teacher. Her books for kids include THE BRILLIANT FALL OF GIANNA Z.,SUGAR AND ICE, and EYE OF THE STORM (Walker/Bloomsbury Dec. 2010) the MARTY MCGUIRE series (Scholastic), SEA MONSTER'S FIRST DAY, and OVER AND UNDER THE SNOW (Chronicle, Books). Kate also wrote SPITFIRE and CHAMPLAIN AND THE SILENT ONE, both Lake Champlain historical novels published by North Country Books.

Kate lives with her family on Lake Champlain, where she loves to read, write, hike, swing on birch trees, and eat chocolate. She also hangs out in various places online.
Visit Kate's website: http://www.katemessner.com

Find Kate on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/KateMessner

...or follow her on Twitter - @katemessner

Reviews

[Manybooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now what many of us both young and old have read, have heard and have sometimes even internalised regarding the Salem Witch Trials generally seems to be that in 1692 a bunch of rabidly paranoid Puritans in the Thirteen Colonies (in what is now the state of Massachusetts of the United States of America) freaked out, accused their neighbours of practicing witchcraft and with the end result being that dozens of innocent women in Salem, Massachusetts, were arrested, tortured and burned at the stake as witches and sorceresses. Right? Well, actually kind of wrong, for as author Kate Messner clearly points out in the ninth instalment of her Middle Grade graphic novel hybrid non-fiction History Smashers series (of course titled as History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials and published in August 2024) that while there definitely was some serious witch worry and superstitions amongst the Puritans (in other words amongst the morons, amongst the religiously fanatical and ignorant) in late 17th century Massachusetts, no one in what would in 1776 become the USA has actually ever been put on a pyre and burned for witchcraft (albeit the truth is really not in any way better either, since during the Salem Witch Trials more than one-hundred innocents would be accused of witchcraft and with twenty executions by hanging, mostly of women, but also of six men and at least two dogs, but no cats it seems, which I personally find rather intriguing and strange since it is generally not canines but felines that are considered to be a witch's familiar).

So History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials just like with the previous eight History Smasher books presents Kate Messner's text and Falyn Koch's cartoon-like black and white artwork in an engagingly educational graphic novel hybrid style (nicely suitable for a reading audience of nine to twelve year olds, but that both my inner child and equally so adult me would definitely prefer more text, less images and not so many graphic novel sequences with History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials, although I do think that Messner's words and Koch's illustrations work really well together and should thus likely be a reading hit with today's middle grade readers, and especially considering how much into graphic novels they do seem to be). And with History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials both verbally and visually uncovering the myths regarding the Salem Witch Trials as well as pointing out what is historically true, showing for example and as already mentioned and alluded to above that while during the witch hunting crazes in the UK and in continental Europe (and which saw more than 40,000 women wrongfully executed from 1420 to 1780) accused witches were generally burned at the stake, this was obviously not the case for the Salem Witch Trials, that the accused both female and male were executed or rather wrongfully executed by hanging, and Kate Messner also sharing in History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials how and why the Salem Witch Trials likely materialised, explaining the history of witchcraft in Europe with its witch-hunting fervour and fever (both amongst Catholics and equally so amongst Protestants), the Puritan religion, and various societal fears, yes, History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials is both immensely readable and is also wonderfully educationally enlightening and as such also nicely and necessarily so revisionist (and that the many primary historical documents and eye-witness accounts Messner uses in History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials are both appreciated and also render History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials very solidly researched and which also makes the uncovering of myths related to what happened in 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts not only justified but also something necessary, something absolutely required).

Five stars for History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials (and with me also being very happy that Kate Messner includes detailed bibliographies, a time line, an index as well as an author's note and that this in my opinion and for me adds a further level of academic and intellectual validity and excellence to History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials). But just to say as a final word, albeit I do hugely appreciate and massively applaud how Messner in History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials compares late 17th century Massachusetts and the Puritan religious extremism that precipitated and led to the Salem Witch trials to the scare tactics Republican "senator" and paranoid psychopath Joseph McCarthy used in the Cold War era, well, I do wish that Kate Messner would go a bit further in History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials and also do the exact same regarding current book banning craze and fever in much of the United States of America (although I also know and realise that if this were the case, not only would History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials and the entire History Smashers series likely be challenged and banned, but that Messner herself would probably be herself facing huge levels of animosity and maybe even worse).

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review copy - digital copy via the library

Like other History Smashers books, this is an excellent look into the past in bite sized, delicious pieces. Young people will enjoy learning through this book. There are original sources, but there are also brief and often humorous summaries or explanations. There are also short retellings using comics and other ways of breaking up the text so it’s not a bunch of paragraphs.

Like others but the series, the myth busting is great because it gives readers the sense that they now know things that other people might not realize even adults in their lives. They are getting the scoop.

My students are always excited to see new books from this series. Highly recommended!

[Andrea Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is great, even for adults! So much information and no boring parts 😉

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with the other History Smashers titles, Salem Witch Trials introduces middle grade readers to a series of historical events. Messner provides background context about the Puritans and their beliefs and the social and economic conditions that allowed the accusations of witchcraft to flourish for a time. Using primary source quotes, comics, and very readable general text, readers learn about some of the people involved in the trials as accusers, judges, and victims. Sidebars highlighted in gray provide additional information about related events or additional details about the people and place. Messner is careful to point out the fact that a lot is not known and most likely will never be known because of the lack of available sources. After the horrible events that resulted in the deaths of over 20 innocent people, records were destroyed making it difficult to know all the what's, how's, and why's. Not only is the book very readable and engaging but it also points out the dangers of fear and ignorance. Other people and events reminiscent of the Salem witch trials are mentioned such as McCarthy's hunt for communists, as well as the ongoing risks of pride, fear, and ignorance. The final quotes from some of the victims are particularly powerful. Back matter includes sources, a timeline, and an index. A great book, both for teaching, and for young history lovers who want to better understand United States history. Highly recommended.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love these books so much!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very balanced. I love the connection to modern witch hunts. This was fairly heavy material but just right for my 9 and 11 year olds. Presented well but could hurt more tender souls.

[Hannah Showalter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to pick a History Smashers book to read for class next week, so naturally I picked one about the Salem Witch Trials. I would loooooved this series as a kid, such a cool way to learn more about history!

[Pru · Rating 5 out of 5]

A toddler tantrum at the local library resulted in this book coming home, and I just had to read it. It would've been rude not to. While intended for a much younger audience, I still learnt bits and pieces. Most accusations came from hearsay, neighbourly disputes, and literally dreams, yet many people were essentially murdered. What did stand out, though, is that while too many people died, the burning of witches was much more prevalent throughout Europe. It is an obvious easy read, with a side of knowledge.

[Kaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books was really entertaining while giving a more balanced look at historical events. Even as an adult, I learned things that I didn't know beforehand and some misconceptions I had were cleared up. I really like that Messner uses quotes from primary documents, but adds sections right afterward that translate them into more modern speak so that kids can understand what they just read. Overall, I think this series is a great one for kids that are into history and I can't wait to read more of them!

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating peek into the myths and lies surrounding the Salem Witch trials. Messner looks at all angles of this unfortunate event; from the fits and tantrums that started the trials, to the utter lack of evidence (and reliance on paranoia and fear of the Devil), and ridiculous tactics used in determining who was a witch (many tactics that were a lose-lose: throw a “witch” in the water, if they drown then they weren’t a witch, but if they can swim or float then they are a witch and are sentenced to death). While many documents were destroyed after the trials (an attempt to erase this moment from history), Messner thoroughly examines what was left of that time, but is upfront about the lack of answers that are available. It is interesting to read about the half-apologies made after the fact, by both judge and accusers.

HISTORY SMASHERS: SALEM WITCH TRIALS is written in an upbeat, conversational and engaging tone that will pull middle-grade readers into the investigation of facts. Throughout the book, many moments are emphasized with comic-like illustrations that are amusing and informative. Many concepts are examined further for ease of understanding. Back matter includes a timeline, bibliography for further exploration, an authors note, index and image credits. Highly recommend!

[Jillian Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and easy to follow! Kids interested in this time period are going to devour this book. I loved how Messner includes actual quotes and then summarizes them for readers. What a perfect way to present the information and aid in kids deciphering that information. Included in the back is a list of books and websites for further reading and researching. Kids will also love the illustrations and graphic novel feel to some pages. Messner makes the subject accessible for many students in this way.

[Ellon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars (I really liked it)

This was a really interesting book. I love how Messner uses primary sources but then also explains what they are saying for younger readers to understand. I think this topic would be more appropriate for middle school than for my elementary school library though. I'm interested in reading more of the History Smashers series.

[Susan McGilvray · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE this series! Middle schoolers clear the name of one of the accused! These trials laid the groundwork for our 3 branches of government and the separation of church and state! So much fascinating information presented in a fun and engaging way. Buy all in the series for a school near you! ❤️

[Cara (Wilde Book Garden) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a broken record here but I love this nonfiction series so much. Interesting, informative, and a fantastic and approachable introduction for young readers on how we engage with history.

CW: Executions, misogyny, racism and xenophobia, grief

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a middle school teacher, I don't this is appropriate for 6th grade, but it would be ok for 7th and 8th as long as the students are warned about the fact that people were hanged. The history is fascinating, but it is such a sad story. However, it's timely and could inspire great conversations.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great addition to the History Smashers series. Students will be fascinated by this topic.

[Elise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entire series is fantastic. The latest installment did not disappoint.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a ton of books on the Salem Witch Trials, but it will never not be a fascinating subject to me. While this one didn't offer me a lot of new information, I'm guessing the majority of it will be new for most middle-graders. Messner gives an overview of what happened, a number of possibilities as to why it happened, and even a section on what occurred after the trials ended in 1693. That last one is unique, at least among the books I've read. It was interesting to learn about things like public apologies, renumeration (and no renumeration) for victims, what was learned about court procedures from the trial, and more. The book also compares the Salem Witch Trials to more modern scenarios, like the Holocaust, to help kids make the connection between what happened in 1692 and what has happened in the more recent past. It's not heavy-handed in its approach, but it still provides some stimulating food for thought.

HISTORY SMASHERS: SALEM WITCH TRIALS is written in an upbeat, conversational style with plenty of humor and sarcasm to appeal to its middle-grade audience. Kids should find it both approachable and intriguing. It teaches and entertains at the same time. While Messner never talks down to her young readers, she does explain complex terms and translate old-fashioned language into a more modern version, which strikes a nice balance that kids will appreciate.

The text is broken up and enhanced by lively comic strip-style illustrations that are eye-catching, information-giving, and amusing.

I definitely recommend this book to kids who are interested in the subject. It's interesting, approachable, and not too grim, despite some dark themes.

[Brooke - TheBrookeList · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Salem Witch Trials are part of our American lore in ways that they've seeped even into basic phrases we use daily (it's a witch hunt). Kate Messner is a stalwart champion of making history easier for kids, and she does a good job of trying to explain a complicated time in American History. The style of the History Smashers series is fun for kids - lots of cartoons and cute images, but more text heavy than a graphic novel. It is fun for middle grade readers, but takes a little work to get into and isn't especially narrative.

In the end, the book felt a little unsatisfying to me, but probably not because of any flaw of the author, but because I want clearer answers for what happened. Messner leaves us with a lot of unknowns and speculation, with is appropriate, but a little frustrating all the same.

Read as a nomination in the nonfiction book award category as a panelist for Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (Cybils Awards).

Nominated in Elementary nonfiction - I really think it's a better fit for the older elementary grades (probably 4th and up). There are so many references that aren't quite defined (like indentured servants). I can't help but feel it would just go well over the heads of many younger readers. Messner is a master of her craft, and the pictures make it feel a little like a graphic novel, but it is still quite text heavy and the content doesn't read like a story of in a narrative fashion that would keep younger readers going (or even, get them started).

[Tracy Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read other books about the Salem Witch Trials, so most of the info provided in this book was not new to me. I picked it up one day, thinking I'd give it a try, simply because I wanted to see how a "children's book" would compare to the adult version of the story I'd read about 2 years ago.

The language is very clear and easy to understand, except when letters or other documents are presented... however, something I really appreciated was a cute little addition under every bit of info that was spelled out in old-timey language: "In Other Words." Each time there was something declared or whatever, in that Puritan language and with the wack-a-doo spelling they used, there is an explanation in plain terms, right below it. That was exactly what this particular book needed--it would've been handy when I was reading that adult book, lol!

This book is part of a series of historical books: History Smashers. This was my first time learning of this series, but I appreciate that my library carries them. Fun pictures, but it wasn't quite a graphic novel. It was an enjoyable read!

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

HISTORY SMASHERS: THE SALEM WITCH HUNT is the latest installment in Kate Messner’s middle grade myth-busting series. This book shows how the religious beliefs of a few led to wild accusations about others in their Massachusetts community. The author uses a variety of source materials to debunk the oft-repeated stories of the Salem Witch Hunt and in the process, shows how the events left a legacy seen today in the separation of our judicial branch from the legislative and executive branches and the use of the term “witch hunt.” Readers will be engaged by the author’s clear explanation of the events and the introduction to the various players involved in them. Accompanying artwork, including some comic panel style illustrations, help to make content accessible to readers. Great way to introduce readers to a fascinating and formative time in United States history!

Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC of the book to read.

[Maura · Rating 4 out of 5]

My 11 year old son and I devoured this newest HISTORY SMASHERS installment over a series of bedtime reads. I almost always learn something new whenever I read a Kate Messner book, but this one didn't include (for me) any really new or surprising content, but as expected, my 11 year old was fairly riveted by the history that was mostly new to him. He had no preconceived myths in his mind that needed to be smashed, but still thoroughly enjoyed the read.

Though the scattering of sidebar features, comic strip elements, and call-outs breaks up the length of the text in a way that makes it more digestible to upper elementary school readers, I found some of the call-outs and sidebars to be strangely placed or unusually long, sometimes intruding into the chronological narrative in a somewhat distracting way. My son really enjoyed the illustrations.

Highly recommended for elementary and middle school libraries, especially where other HISTORY SMASHERS books circulate well.

[Murray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Part of the History Smashers series that looks at famous historical events and debunks some of the commonly held beliefs. For example none of the women and men who were found guilty of witchcraft were burned at the stake, they were either hanged or kept in prison. Also some of the accused operated outside the bounds of Puritan beliefs as one woman, Bridget Bishop, owned a tavern and allowed gambling. A good introduction to the Salem witch trials with a large bibliography at books end if middle grade readers wanted a more in depth look at what happened. Recommended to middle grade readers who like history books.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll probably check out more of these books in the History Smashers series that Messner puts out because this one was slick. I liked the approach (I listened to the audiobook) on delivering the information and "smashing history" by delineating what can be proven versus what has been said throughout history that perpetuates because it sounds like a good story.

Messner's clear chronology helps keep the pace and then connecting it to literature (McCarthyism and The Crucible) especially enriches the information.

Whether a reader is 10 or 100, it's a solid delivery if anyone wanted to know about this point in time.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a myth busting, well written history of the Salem witch trials told in easy to understand and engaging text. Mixed in with the narrative are graphic novel passages as well as other illustrations, all in black and white. Messner covers events leading up to and after the trials so that kids get the background and a well-rounded view of what actually happened and why. Check out the rest of her History Smashers series! Highly recommended for middle grade and older students.

[H. Woodward · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great read. It could be used by a teacher to brush up before teaching a unit on the Salem Witch Trials or by a middle school/ early high school student who needs a nonfiction read. I really enjoy Messner’s humor and clear prose. Keeps reader interest and provides a well detailed account of history. Why can’t we use these for students instead of textbooks? Life would be substantially improved. Well done work by a reliable author. Definite recommend for classroom library!

[T.P. Jagger · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a highly entertaining and informative nonfiction read, and the repeated incorporation of primary-source material was an excellent touch. Less than 24 hours after finishing, I was at the local library checking out another 4 books from the series.

[KayKay · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.6 stars.
Not my favorite in the series. While the content was well-researched and oroganized, but I found the repetition of the crazy stories told by the accusers was too much. Otherwise, Kate Messner presented a comprehensive book about the Salem Witch Trials.

I recommend it.

[Alicia]

Nothing new presented in this book, everything I remember from HS history. Good if you don’t have that knowledge.

[Jennifer Lacey Neset · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an in-depth look at the Salem Witch Trials. It is written in a way that is engaging for students. The book includes elements of a graphic novel intermingled with the text.