The thrilling true story of fourteen-year-old Madeleine de Verchères, who in 1692 defended her family's seigneury (a type of fortress) and its occupants from the fierce Mohawk Indians for an entire week with only the aid of her two younger brothers, an elderly servant, one faithful full-grown man and two cowardly soldiers who were of little help. Although the basic outline of the story is well-documented, this story fills in all of the interesting (and likely) details surrounding this event that is still commemorated near Montreal with a statue of this young heroine.

The story is exciting and, while not quite graphic, probably intense enough to make it unsuitable as a read-aloud for very young children. Children beyond fourth grade or so will find it interesting and exciting, with many details of bravery, clever strategies and God's providence.

The story is an excellent supplement for the study of Canadian and/or North American history. The authors portrayal of the interactions with the Indians are quite fair – placing a great deal of the blame for the cruelty of the Indians upon the heads of the white men (both from France and England) many of whom repeatedly betrayed their trust and used them for their own selfish interests.

Highly recommended. Also see our review of the audio version.