Inspired by the story of the first Native America to graduate from Harvard, the author weaves a fictionalized story around how he got there. The story is told from the viewpoint of Bethia Mayfield. In 1665, on Martha's Vineyard, young Bethia feels constrained by the limitations put on young girls. She desires to be educated and fulfill her potential. Bethia meets a young Native American boy, who she calls Caleb. Eventually, Bethia's father, a Christian minister, begins to tutor Caleb along with Bethia's older brother with the intent of qualifying for the best education the New World can offer, Harvard.
Told over the course of many years, the reader is carried along by Bethia's struggles and observations. It was a difficult time and place to live. I enjoyed being transported back in time but I'm glad I live when I do.
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