Not real sure why I set out to read Sid Fleischman novels with the exception of Whipping Boy, which is a fun read that highlights the literary device of irony, but I embarked on this tale and found it to be a decent read that will enlighten young readers on the ignorance of the settlers during the 17th century. This unique mystery looks at the injustices the legal system exercised based on superstitions and unfounded claims that led to animals, children, women and men suffering executions for witchcraft and wizardry. Fleischman has an uncanny ability to impart humor in the darkest of instances. This is a simple, yet complex read.