Saturnalia

Saturnalia is the one day of the year when masters and servants switch places. On the day of the ritual Narragansett Indian William and his adoptive family, the Curries, find themselves in the middle of much bigger events. Charlie Thurston narrates in a dignified tone that fits the historical period of the story. He gives the tithingman, a strict Puritan, a commanding voice, but softens his voice for many of the other characters, including William. Further, he expertly conveys the mix of emotions William feels as he is pulled between connecting with his past and enjoying his life in the "white man's world." Weaving together the interrelated vignettes in a way that differentiates the characters and situations, Thurston dramatizes how all the events come together on the Saturnalia. E.N. (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine

March 31, 1990
In this rich and alluring historical novel, Fleischman ( Joyful Noise , Graven Images , Paths of the Pale Horse ) examines the attitudes of Puritan society, while focusing on the White Man's treatment of Indians and servants. At the center of the story is William, a Narraganset Indian who has been taken under the wing of Mr. Currie, a kind-hearted printer. Others in the cast include neighboring Bostonians: a hypocritical tithingman, a self-important wigmaker trailed by his not-so-loyal manservant, and a woodcarver haunted by his past. The action takes place around the time of Saturnalia, the day on which ancient Romans traded places with their slaves. Although few townspeople practice the pagan ritual, on that day many experience ironic twists of fate. With exceptional skill, Fleischman evokes an aura of days gone by through a series of interrelated vignettes. Offering lyrical prose, resonant themes and a tragicomic tone, this story will captivate those who seek a challenging and enlightening read. Ages 12-up.