What if you could journey back in time, witness historical events firsthand, and unearth the truth? Would such revelations reinforce or challenge our understanding of history? When five close friends discover a magical treehouse during a game of hide-and-seek, they soon realize that its enchanting powers extend beyond invisibility—it can transport them through time. Calling themselves the Tree House Club, Ashley, Emma, Keith, Aaron, and Harry embark on a thrilling adventure to uncover that history may not have unfolded as they were taught.

In Find Me in Time: Meeting Columbus, the first installment in L.T. Caton’s Find Me in Time series, the young protagonists travel back to 1492 and arrive at the island of Guanahani, now part of The Bahamas, just in time to witness Columbus’s arrival in the New World. However, they quickly learn that the historical narrative of a heroic discovery belies the brutal reality: a violent massacre of the indigenous Taíno people, driven by the Spaniards’ avaricious motives. Upon returning to the present, the group vows to share the truth about these tragic events.

Caton’s engaging work of historical fiction, aimed primarily at children and young readers, offers a concise and enlightening history lesson accessible to all. This compelling book provides an informative and eye-opening account of natural history, presented in a manner that is neither tedious nor traumatizing. The story is skillfully crafted, with a well-paced plot that smoothly transitions from one event to another. While the characters may not be intricate, their warm, genuine friendship dynamic underscores children’s inclusivity and open-mindedness when unencumbered by adult biases.

One of the most notable aspects of this book is the author’s ability to portray even harrowing historical events in a delicate yet honest manner. Accompanied by charming illustrations, Caton’s ingenious historical retelling and smooth storyline contain appealing visuals and, most importantly, its critique of the biased way history has often been recorded. It is recommended for young readers and adults, particularly those seeking to gain insight from the perspective of the conquered rather than the conquerors.

As the adage goes, history is written by the victors. So, with eager anticipation for the next installment in the Find Me in Time series, readers will undoubtedly look forward to joining the Tree House Club on their next captivating adventure.

Pages: 57 | ASIN : B0BVVDLFBS