The Hollow Tree

The Hollow Tree is a historical novel set in 1777 during the American Revolution. The story centers on fifteen-year-old Phoebe Olcott, who finds herself caught between the Patriot and Loyalist sides of the conflict after her father's death in battle. Living with her Loyalist aunt's family, Phoebe discovers a secret list of names that must be delivered to Fort Ticonderoga. Her mission leads her on a journey through the war-torn colonies, where she encounters both allies and enemies during her quest to complete her task. Phoebe's path intersects with Jem Morrissay and other Loyalist families who are fleeing to Upper Canada to escape persecution. The journey tests her courage, loyalty, and ability to survive in a dangerous landscape where trust is scarce and allegiances shift rapidly. The novel explores themes of identity and conviction during times of political upheaval, examining how ordinary people navigate extraordinary circumstances when forced to choose sides in a civil conflict.

Readers describe this YA historical novel as an engaging look at the American Revolution from a Canadian perspective, with particular praise for its portrayal of 15-year-old Phoebe's growth and resilience. Readers appreciate: - The historical detail and research into Loyalist settlements - Complex moral choices faced by characters - Educational value for teaching colonial history - Strong female protagonist - Vivid descriptions of frontier life Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in early chapters - Some historical elements feel forced into the narrative - Secondary characters need more development Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (137 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (12 ratings) "Brings the Loyalist perspective to life in a way textbooks never could" - Teacher review on Goodreads "Started slow but became impossible to put down" - Reader on Amazon "Would have liked more background on supporting characters" - LibraryThing review

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🌟 The original manuscript of "The Hollow Tree" took seven years to complete, including extensive historical research and multiple revisions. 🌟 Janet Lunn, born in Dallas, Texas, moved to Canada as a child and became one of Canada's most respected children's authors, receiving the Order of Canada in 1997. 🌟 The book's portrayal of divided loyalties during the American Revolution was influenced by real accounts of families split between Loyalist and Patriot causes, with an estimated 15-20% of colonists remaining loyal to Britain. 🌟 The novel is part of a loosely connected trilogy that includes "The Root Cellar" and "Shadow in Hawthorn Bay," each exploring different periods of Canadian history. 🌟 Real historical figures appear as minor characters in the story, including members of Butler's Rangers, a Loyalist military unit that operated along the New York-Canada frontier during the Revolution.