Of all the "Indian Captive" novel, such as "Mocassin Trail" and "The Light in the Forest", I found this to be the most thoroughly researched and most respectfully written. Originally published in 1941, it is based on the true-life story of Mary "Molly Jemison", who was captured and adopted by the Genesee in the 1750s. When given the opportunity to return to the white community, Molly chose to stay with her native family. At the age of 80, "she told her memories of her experiences in detail to James Everett Seaver, M.D. and the book was first published at Canandagua, NY in 1824." (p. xi)
My edition, published in 1995, includes an introduction by Arthur C. Parker, Director of the Rochester Museum of Arts. He explains that "not only did Miss Lenski make a study of the literature (regarding Molly's life), but visited the Indians, many of whom are descendants of the subject of her book. The book includes hand drawn sketches ,done by the author, all based on her studies "in the various museums containing Iroquois and especially Seneca objects" (p.viii).
As Seaver explains, many writers have ignored the necessity of having accurate knowledge of how the native people lived, and instead have "written purely from imagination, filling gaps with pre-conceived knowledge or basing it upon modern adaptions of European practices". (p. vii).
The result is a sensitive story which explores the divide between the two worlds at the time of the French and Indian War. Molly first feels extreme despair when separated from her family, only to learn to care fore the kind and loyal native family to whom she now belongs.
For teachers, this would be a good supplement on a unit about Native Americans. The author not only included sketches of artifacts used by the natives, but explains their uses, as Molly is taught skills for living as a productive member of the tribe, but also the traditions and beliefs of the native people. The author also shows the way that contact with Europeans began to change life for the natives, in both good and bad ways. ( )

Twelve-year-old Mary Jemison took her peaceful days on her family's farm in eastern Pennsylvania for granted. But on a spring day in 1758, something happened that changed her life forever. A band of warriors invaded the house and took the Jemison family captive. Mary was separated from her parents and brothers and sister. She traveled with the Indians to southern Ohio and later to a Seneca village on the Genesee River in what is now western New York.

Mary's new life was not easy. She missed her family terribly, and she was unaccustomed to Seneca ways. Several times she even tried to run away. But the Indians were kind to her and taught her many things about the earth, its plants, and its creatures. She became a sister to animals and to all growing things. Then Mary was finally given the chance to return to the world of white men. But she had also become a sister to the Indians. How could she leave them?

Based on a true story, here is the unforgettable tale of the legendary "White Woman of the Genesee."

“It don't matter what happens, if you're only strong and have great courage.”
― Lois Lenski, Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison

Most of my reviews are rather long. In the case of this book however, I can't really do that. I read this a long time ago and realized I did not really do a review. I really liked it and want to recommend it but I cannot go into specifics because it was read so long ago. I need to do a reread.

This is the story of Mary "Molly" Jemison. Mary was captured by Seneca Indians in a raid. Her family was killed but she was taken alive and adopted by the Senecas.

Eventually, Mary came to embrace the Indian customs and way of life and came to love her family.

I enjoyed reading the true story of Mary Jemison. I have an interest in Native American History and this book, which I read so long ago, was very educational as well as being a great read in general.

I should add that there is tragedy and some scenes that are difficult to deal with. The book is also illustrated with pictures and I loved it and would recommend it to anyone with an interest in the subject matter. ( )

A girl was taken from her home and family when a band of Indians came to her farm and took her captive.
She learned the Indian language and learned the way they lived. but when it came for her to pick
if she wanted to live with the white men. she thought, how could she leave the Indians she loved?. This is a great story to read.have fun!!! ( )

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