At a glance
Calico Captive
Children's historical fiction
Calico Captive
288 pages · First published 2001
In 1754, young Miriam Willard dreams of a future with Phineas Whitney, a promising student preparing to attend Harvard. But when a raid on her family's New Hampshire settlement shatters their peaceful lives, Miriam, her sister Susanna, and their relatives are taken captive and forced on a grueling journey through the northern wilderness. Facing hunger, exhaustion, uncertainty, and the dangers of captivity, Miriam struggles to protect her family while holding on to hope. When they finally reach Montreal, she finds herself drawn into the unfamiliar world of French colonial society, where the wealthy Du Quesne family introduces her to unexpected comforts, complicated loyalties, and new romantic possibilities. Torn between the life she once imagined and the opportunities unfolding before her, Miriam must discover where her heart and future truly belong. Inspired by the real-life captivity of Susanna Willard Johnson and her family, this richly detailed historical novel offers a compelling blend of frontier adventure, courage, romance, and the search for home. Perfect for readers who enjoy early American history, resilient heroines, and immersive stories of survival and hope.
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Jump to the pours ↓Orchard Mulled Cider + Bramble & Honey Mead
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No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
An armed raid on a colonial settlement; captivity and forced separation from home; threats of violence and death; a grueling wilderness march involving hunger, exhaustion, and exposure to harsh conditions; the threat of enslavement or forced servitude; childbirth during captivity; family separation and uncertainty; wartime tensions between Indigenous, French, and British communities; fear, grief, and emotional distress; mild historical romance and courtship.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Orchard Mulled Cider
Warm apple cider and fragrant spices recall the comforts of home that Miriam carries in her heart as she journeys through an unfamiliar wilderness, determined to find courage amid uncertainty.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Warm the cider with spices and fruit for 5–10 minutes without boiling. Strain if desired and serve hot.
- Garnish: Cinnamon stick or orange slice.
- Glassware: Mug.
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Mug ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Bramble & Honey Mead
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Wild blackberries and golden honey evoke the rugged northern wilderness, where Miriam's courage is tested by captivity and hardship, yet hope remains as persistent as the promise of home.
What you'll need
- 4 oz blackberry mead
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How to mix it
- Pour ready-made blackberry mead into a small wine glass.
- Serve lightly chilled, or follow the serving guidance on your chosen bottle. No mixing or garnish needed.
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