Downright Dencey facts for kids
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| Author | Caroline Snedeker |
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| Illustrator | Maginel Wright Barney |
| Genre | Children's historical novel |
| Publisher | Doubleday |
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Publication date
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1927 |
| Pages | 314 |
| ISBN | 1-883937-79-5 |
| OCLC | 317855938 |
| Followed by | The Beckoning Road |
Downright Dencey is a children's historical novel. It was written by Caroline Dale Snedeker. The book was first published in 1927.
It was illustrated by Maginel Wright Barney. In 1928, Downright Dencey received a special award. It was a Newbery Honor book. This means it was recognized as one of the best children's books of the year.
Contents
What the Story is About
The story of Downright Dencey takes place in Nantucket, Massachusetts. This is an island off the coast of the United States. The time is shortly after the War of 1812.
The book is about an unusual friendship. It's between a girl named Dencey Coffyn and a boy named Jetsam. Dencey is a Quaker girl. Quakers are a religious group known for their peaceful ways. Jetsam is an adopted boy. He lives with the town's drunkard and is not well-liked by others.
How Their Friendship Started
Their friendship begins when Dencey accidentally hurts Jetsam with a stone. She feels very sorry and wants him to forgive her. To make up for it, Dencey offers to teach Jetsam to read. He accepts, and they start spending time together.
As they learn and play, their friendship grows stronger. However, Dencey's mother does not approve. She worries about Jetsam's reputation. He is an outcast in their community. His behavior is also different from what is expected of Quakers.
Challenges to Their Friendship
Dencey's mother tries to stop the friendship. She even punishes Dencey by sending her to her room. Dencey is only allowed bread and water. But Dencey refuses to give up on Jetsam. Their bond becomes even deeper.
Later in the story, Jetsam saves Dencey's life. She gets caught in a dangerous storm. Dencey was trying to stop Jetsam from taking a job. This job was with a bad man named Professor Snubshoe. Jetsam's brave act changes how Dencey's family sees him.
A New Beginning
Dencey's family decides to adopt Jetsam. They help him become a respected young man. As Dencey and Jetsam grow up, their feelings for each other change. They fall in love. In the end, Jetsam asks Dencey to marry him.
Main Characters
- Dionis "Dencey" Cofyn - She is the main character of the story. Dencey is seen as a bit rebellious. But her actions help to change a boy's life for the better.
- Jetsam - He is a young man who was not accepted by society. People treated him badly. But Dencey accepts him and helps him.
- Lydia - She is Dencey's mother. Lydia is a strong and religious woman. She cares deeply about her daughter's choices.
- Captain Tom Cofyn - He is Dencey's father. Captain Cofyn works at sea. When he returns home, he brings happiness to his family.
- Hopestill - She is Dencey's cousin. Hopestill is very religious and always follows the rules.
- Peggy - She is the maid who helps take care of the Cofyn family's home.
- Injun Jill - She is Jetsam's adopted mother. She lives as a beggar.
- Professor Snubshoe - He is a magician who is shown as an evil character in the story.
What Happens Next
A second book, called The Beckoning Road, was published in 1929. This book continues the story of Dencey's family. They move to Indiana and join a special community. This community is called New Harmony.
