Book details
Winds of L’Acadie
Description
For ages 10+. When sixteen-year-old Sarah from Toronto learns that she is to spend the summer with her grandparents in Nova Scotia, she is convinced that it will be the most tedious summer ever. She gets off to a rough start when she meets Luke, the nephew of her grandmother's friend, and one unfortunate event leads to another. Just when she thinks her summer cannot get much worse, she finds herself transported to Acadia in 1755. Here she meets Anne and learns much about the Acadian culture and history and the Acadians' relations with the Mi'kmac people. She also experiences the warmth she has always wanted of a closely knit family. When Sarah realises that the peace-loving Acadians are about to be torn from their homes and banished to distant shores, she is desperate to find a way to help them. Forced to abandon her pampered, stylish lifestyle, Sarah uncovers a strength and determination she did not know she possessed. Although Sarah has to come to terms with the fact that "you can't change history," she is willing to risk her life to do everything in her power to help her Acadian family, and finds a surprising ally in Luke. Winds of L'Acadie, a historical novel for readers ten and up, reveals a painful part of Canadian history through the relationship of two young women from different centuries.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
216 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Historical Adventure: 'Winds of L’Acadie' offers readers an exciting journey through time, combining elements of fantasy with historical events. This makes it a captivating read for anyone interested in history, particularly the Acadian deportation, while enjoying the thrill of time travel.
- Cultural Insight: Through the narrative, readers gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Acadians and the Mi'kmaq people. Lois Donovan weaves cultural details into the story, providing a deeper understanding of these communities and their historical experiences.
- Character Development: The protagonist, Sarah, is a relatable character whose personal growth throughout the book can inspire readers. As she learns about her heritage and faces various challenges, readers can find valuable lessons in resilience, courage, and identity.
- Educational Value: 'Winds of L’Acadie' is not only entertaining but also educational. It presents an opportunity for readers, especially younger audiences, to learn about a significant part of Canadian history in an engaging way, potentially sparking a lifelong interest in historical exploration and reading.