Blood on the River: James Town 1607

Twelve-year-old Samuel Collier narrates his experiences from a street person and orphan in London with a limited future to becoming Captain John Smith's page heading to the New World. He describes the turbulent voyage to Virginia, the political intrigues of the early settlers, the ruthlessness of the Powhatan Indians, and the harrowing first winter. He learns he can be whomever he wants to be in the New World settlement of Jamestown! The lush Virginia shore is both beautiful and forbidding, and it's hard to know who is friend or foe.

Carbone explores themes of leadership, equality, and new beginnings with an even hand and solid documentation.

-- "The Horn Book"

Gripping historical fiction...meticulously drawn scenes...A strong, visceral story of the hardship and peril settlers faced, as well as the brutal realities of colonial conquest.

-- "Booklist"

Lively historical fiction at its best.

-- "Kirkus (starred review)"

Samuel's account of the voyage to Virginia, political intrigues among the settlers, and the harrowing first winter of the James Town settlement brings to life figures like Smith, Powhatan, and Pocahontas. Details about food and daily life add realism to the story, and quotes from historical sources begin each chapter.

-- "School Library Journal"

Elisa Carbone, a multi-award-winning author of novels for children and young adults, devotes much time to researching the historical facts that are the basis for her novels. Her passion for North Carolina's Outer Banks, which is the setting for her novel Storm Warriors, began with windsurfing and increased when she learned about the fascinating history of the Outer Banks. Her love of history is also evident in Stealing Freedom, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults. She is also the author of the highly acclaimed novel Starting School with an Enemy.Bryan Kennedy was born and raised on Long Island and has been working as an actor and comedian in New York for the past several years. He has done numerous theater productions, voiceovers, commercials, and audiobooks.

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