Scared Sarah

Elizabeth Fisher is a former elementary-school principal in Toronto, who
spent 10 years as a teacher-librarian.

Although Scared Sarah is set in the pioneer world of 1836 Ontario,
children of today will be able to identify with the heroine’s fears.

Sarah has a lot to be scared about, from the teasing antics of her
brothers and sisters to the wild, scary world created by her own
imagination. Sarah’s mother tries to reassure her with stories from
her own childhood, as they walk through woods and marsh of the Ojibwa
encampment. But Sarah is too worried about the witches and bloodsuckers
lying in wait for her to listen. When they reach the encampment, Sarah
joins her friend Bright Eyes. As the two mothers trade and chat, Sarah
discovers why Bright Eyes is never afraid. He carries a pouch, said to
be magic, given to him by his grandfather.

During another visit, Sarah obtains the pouch without Bright Eyes’
knowledge and finds that the magic works for her, too. But her
conscience will not let her keep it and she resolves to return it. As
she travels to the Ojibwa camp, her usual fears—together with her
guilt—assail her. But Bright Eyes’ friendship is her shield, and she
manages to reach the camp. The return of the pouch and her friend’s
acknowledgement of her conquering her fears bring Scared Sarah to a
satisfying conclusion.

The colorful and detailed illustrations complement the story, which
has much to say about pioneer life and the lessons learned from Native
peoples. A glossary extends the knowledge children will gain from this
well-crafted book. Recommended.