The Candle Star by Michelle Isenhoff: Book Review

As I began to read, The Candle Star by Michelle Isenhoff, I was again enthralled by her magnificent talent as a wordsmith.  She has a real talent for stringing together words in beautiful patterns that capture the mind and reveal the essence of the story.

My thoughts on The Candle Star:  This is a historical novel set immediately prior to the Civil War in the United States.  Emily is a true Southern Belle accustomed to the luxuries of wealthy plantation life as the daughter of the house.  She does, however, have a very independent streak and is not at all agreeable to the typical selection of a gentleman for her to marry, settle down with, and have a family.  She wants to paint, and she wants to choose her own life.

Her parents ship her North to her uncle, and she begins to learn what life is all about outside the setting of the plantation.  School - in a classroom and not with a tutor. House work.  Mucking out the horse stable.

Emily soon learns that in Michigan there is a difference in that not only is it extremely cold with snow and ice, it is totally different socially.  She meets Malachi, a young free black boy who also goes to school.  She has to work along side of Julia, a free black kitchen maid, in the kitchen cooking and cleaning.

Emily learns about bounty hunters and suffering, escaping slaves.  The Underground Railroad is carrying cargo and the hunters are seeking to disrupt it's traffic.

Author Information:  "I write for kids.  In my books, you can expect adventure and substance, but I'll always respect the innocence of our children."  Michelle Isenhoff's website

I previously reviewed The Color of Freedom by Michelle Isenhoff here on Chat With Vera.  Please read my review of this excellent book, too.

Michelle Isenhoff provided a complimentary copy of The Candle Star in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.