Meggy MacIntosh facts for kids
Meggy MacIntosh is an exciting children's historical novel written by Elizabeth Gray Vining. It tells the story of a brave young Scottish orphan named Meggy. Her adventure begins in 1775, a very important year in American history. Meggy finds herself caught up in the American Revolution in North Carolina. This happens even though she feels a strong connection to Flora MacDonald, who was a loyalist. The book was illustrated by Marguerite de Angeli. It was first published in 1930 and received a special award, a Newbery Honor, in 1931.
Contents
About Meggy MacIntosh
This novel takes readers back in time to 1775. Meggy MacIntosh is a young girl from Scotland who is an orphan. She travels to the American colonies and soon becomes part of a huge historical event. This event is the fight for American independence.
What is a Historical Novel?
A historical novel is a type of story that takes place in the past. It mixes real historical events and people with fictional characters and plots. Meggy MacIntosh is a great example. It teaches you about the American Revolution while telling an exciting story.
The American Revolution: A Quick Look
The American Revolution was a big war fought between 1775 and 1783. The thirteen American colonies wanted to become independent from Great Britain. They no longer wanted to be ruled by the British king. This fight for freedom changed the world.
Loyalists and Revolutionaries
During the American Revolution, people had to choose sides.
- Revolutionaries (also called Patriots) were people who wanted independence. They believed the colonies should govern themselves.
- Loyalists were people who wanted to stay loyal to the British king. They believed the colonies should remain part of Great Britain.
Meggy's story shows how difficult these choices were for people.
Who is Flora MacDonald?
Flora MacDonald was a real historical figure. She was a Scottish woman famous for helping a Scottish prince escape danger. She later moved to North Carolina. In Meggy MacIntosh, Flora MacDonald is a loyalist. This means she supported the British king during the Revolution. Meggy's connection to Flora makes her journey even more interesting.
Awards and Recognition
Meggy MacIntosh was recognized for its quality soon after it was published.
Newbery Honor
In 1931, Meggy MacIntosh received a Newbery Honor. The Newbery Medal is one of the most important awards for children's literature in the United States. A Newbery Honor means the book was a runner-up for the main award. This shows that the story was considered excellent and important for young readers.
