Review: The Mapmaker’s Children
Eden and her husband have moved out of the city, hoping the slower pace will help them in their quest to have a baby. Their new house is old and full of character and Eden finds a few old things stored away in her pantry. A little investigation leads her to Sarah Brown, a strong woman from the past who wasn’t all that different than she is. Sarah’s father was the well known abolitionist, John Brown. He passed his values down to his children and Sarah uses her talents to help the Underground Railroad.
Sarah McCoy expertly weaves the stories of these two women together in her wonderful historical novel, The Mapmaker’s Children. Even though the two women lived a hundred and fifty years apart and lived very different lives, deep down inside they were very much alike – seeking to find value in their lives.
McCoy imagines a life for John Brown’s real daughter Sarah and gives readers a peek into the workings of the Underground Railroad. She spins a dual narrative with Eden and her struggle with infertility – a struggle so many women can relate to. I was engrossed with both stories but have to admit that I enjoyed Eden’s just a little bit more because of Cleo, a wonderful secondary character. Both women felt real to me, though, so I was invested in this gem right from the start. The Mapmaker’s Children will have broad appeal for both historical fiction readers and women’s fiction readers. This is a book you don’t want to miss!
I want to read this – love historical and women’s fiction.
It seems like weaving together the stories of two women separated by many years has become a common device, but I never get tired if it. This sounds like a good read.
I don’t read historical fiction much, but this sounds like the book to choose for someone looking for that genre.
I’m a big fan of novels that jump back and forth in time. This sounds like a particularly good one.
On my wishlist– good review! I read The Baker’s Daughter by her last year and it was one of my top 10 or so faves for 2014. This one I definitely need to get.
I’ve been hearing such good things about this book. I like the melding of two stories too. Have it on my list already.
I have been eyeing this one. I enjoy stories that take us back in time, while also showing us the present day world of characters through a second narrative. Thanks!
I would love to read this one!
I am so glad that you loved this one as much as I did!
Fascinating, and a book for me
I’m hoping to read this one soon. I have been hearing so much good stuff about this book.
It sounds really good!
I just put a hold on this one at the library the other day! It sounds good.
This sounds like the setting and the topics came together very well, in a heartfell manner. I’ll have to have a look at this one!
This sounds good Kathy.
(I’ve been pathetic with my reading and reviewing this month).
I like historical fiction. This one is definitely for me.
I really liked this one, I got it from my library and am reviewing it Wednesday, along with some wondrous words!
I enjoyed this one too!
It sounds good. I like the weaving of two stories together — separated by time.
I’m so glad you loved this one too. So did I. Her books are just amazing. Cleo was a great character wasn’t she. She seemed wise beyond her years.
I loved Cleo, too. The stories were integrated beautifully. Great review!
The dual storyline seems to be popular lately. I like the Underground Railroad aspect.
Thank you for the book review and the giveaway.
I saved your review to read after mine went up. 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed this one too, Kathy! It was so good!