The Sparrowhawk's crew set sail October 12 from London in hopes of reaching Jamestown, Virginia. On November 6 our ship crashed in fog on what the captain told us was a New England shore. So begins the journal of thirteen-year -old indentured servant Christopher Sears. Rescued by Indians, Chirstopher anf the crew are taken to Plimoth Plantation. There, the young boy finds a place for himself and begins detailing his life with the Pilgrims'the births, deaths, marriages, and the important role that the Indians play in the settlers' lives. When a ship arrives nearly a year later to take the stranded passengers to Jamestown. Christopher finds he doesn't want to leave. But he is still indentured to Captain Sibsey, who won't set him free. Can his new friends help him? Or will he be forced to leave the community that has given him a home? Careful research from historical accounts makes this an exciting story of one boy's coming of age as well as an informative reconstruction of the Pilgrims' daily life. "In this beautifully illustrated work, Bowen provides a well-researched, fictional diary of a young Plimoth settler named Christopher Sears, who documents the trials and tribulations of the year 1626. His diary is decorated with woodcuts...rich, powerful images inked with colors suitable to the time."-BL. "An enthralling account...Bowen's reputation rests secure as the crafter of scrupulously researched, beautifully illustrated stories."-K. Notable Children's Trade Book in Social Studies for 1995 (NCSS/CBC) 1994 "Pick of the Lists" (ABA) 1995 Children's Information Book Award (IRA) 1995 Teachers' Choices (IRA) Best Children's Book of 1994 (Parenting) Children's Books of 1994 (NY Public Library) 100 Books for Reading and Sharing 1994 (NY Public Library)