Critique of A Stitch in Time

There were many wonderful characters involved with the story. Hannah, the oldest daughter of the Chelmsford family, was very interesting. She acted as a mother, sister and a friend to most of her siblings. She tried to keep her family together during their times of trouble. She often seemed puzzled and didn't know what to do, but eventually things came out fine.

Abby was fun-loving and brightened up the scene. Both Nate Videau and Richard Lander were understanding sea captains whose love for Hannah and Abby was great. Mary Lander and Lawrence were inspiring and good, listening friends.

Thankful, the youngest daughter, was always wrecking things, and she was always sneaking around with secrets, ruining people's times or snooping around. She was the favorite of her father, Nathaniel Chelmsford and always felt superior to her brothers and sisters.

Besides the terrible Thankful, there was Mr. Leonard who always after something with his tricks and work with the horrible mill. Mr. Chelmsford was so stubborn, he didn't want to let his children grow up and leave. He was a very brutal man and never gave anyone a chance.

Ann Rinaldi did a good job with the characters. They were very believable, and I eventually came to either pity or relate to them.

Some of the scenes were very powerful. Hannah would always regret her decision not to wed Louis, but her love for her old friend Richard grew and grew. And Richard's understanding of the child Night Song and the way he handled the angry mob at the party was amazing. Hannah brought many changes to different people's lives, some good and some not so good.

This novel helped me realize how great our families are and not to keep secrets. Secrets could cause terrible things to happen if hidden away. I suggest that everyone read this novel enabling them to learn more about the great days of sailing in Salem during the late 1700's and to enjoy a really good book.