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The Courage of Sarah Noble
When Sarah Noble was eight years old she had her great adventure -- going with her father into the wilds of Connecticut to cook for him while he built a house.
There were Indians -- would they be friendly There were many times when Sarah had to say to herself, as her mother had said when she left home, Keep up your courage, Sarah Noble. Keep up your courage.
This charming story is true. Tales of faith and courage and friendship are told over and over again and so kept alive. Here Sarah's adventure is told simply, with feeling and without unnecessary detail.
Hardcover
First published January 1, 1954
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About the author
Alice Dalgliesh
71 books48 followersFamily: Born in Trinidad, British West Indies; naturalized U.S. citizen; died in Woodbury, CT; daughter of John and Alice (Haynes) Dalgliesh.
Educator, editor, book reviewer, and author, Dalgliesh was an elementary school teacher for nearly seventeen years, and later taught a course in children's literature at Columbia University. From 1934 to 1960 she served as children's book editor for Charles Scribner's Sons. In addition to her book reviews for such magazines as Saturday Review of Literature and Parents' Magazine, Dalgliesh wrote more than forty books for children (most illustrated by Katherine Milhous) and about children's literature.
She received a BA from Columbia University and taught at elementary schools for a while before writing her first book, A Happy School Year, in 1924. Among her books are Newbery Honor books The Silver Pencil (1944), The Bears on Hemlock Mountain (1952), and The Courage of Sarah Noble (1954). The writer Robert Heinlein and Dalgliesh, Heinlein's editor at Scribner's, had conflict in the 1950s. This was revealed in letters published in "Grumbles from the Grave" by Virginia Heinlein.
Educator, editor, book reviewer, and author, Dalgliesh was an elementary school teacher for nearly seventeen years, and later taught a course in children's literature at Columbia University. From 1934 to 1960 she served as children's book editor for Charles Scribner's Sons. In addition to her book reviews for such magazines as Saturday Review of Literature and Parents' Magazine, Dalgliesh wrote more than forty books for children (most illustrated by Katherine Milhous) and about children's literature.
She received a BA from Columbia University and taught at elementary schools for a while before writing her first book, A Happy School Year, in 1924. Among her books are Newbery Honor books The Silver Pencil (1944), The Bears on Hemlock Mountain (1952), and The Courage of Sarah Noble (1954). The writer Robert Heinlein and Dalgliesh, Heinlein's editor at Scribner's, had conflict in the 1950s. This was revealed in letters published in "Grumbles from the Grave" by Virginia Heinlein.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 570 reviews
October 4, 2011
I know this book has been criticized for portraying Native Americans in a negative light and propagating false information about them, but, considering that it is based on a true story and from the point of view of an 8-year-old pioneer girl in the 1700s, it is probably an accurate portrayal of what people would think or say about Native Americans at the time. The use of the term "Indians," while inaccurate at best and offensive at worst, was what people in the 1700s called them (or worse). I noticed that, while some reviewers criticized the Robinson mother for calling Indians "heathen savages" and the Robinson children saying they would kill you, cut your head off, skin you alive, and eat you, they failed to mention that Sarah's father later said to Sarah: "Mistress Robinson should teach her children to watch their words. She should watch her own." Yes, some of the things even the Nobles said and did are shocking to me, but it is because I am looking at what happened 300 years ago through very different lenses. We can't change history and shouldn't put thoughts and actions that didn't exist, and ignoring what the settlers believed and how they acted, no matter how ignorant it might have been, is hardly fair. Whether I like it or not, it is part of the history of my people.
I think this book offers an opportunity for parents and educators to discuss different points of view, to look at history in all its ugliness as well as beauty, and to contrast such stories with points of view from other peoples involved, including of course those of Native Americans of various tribes. We cannot change what happened, and trying to walk in peoples' shoes, even if it's really uncomfortable, can be enlightening.
I personally enjoyed this book, and I can't fault Sarah for being afraid to walk through unknown woods and encounter people of a culture so tremendously different from her own, even if her views were, yes, condescending at times. But I know better and can read without necessarily agreeing with the views depicted. As parents and educators, it's our responsibility to know what we're giving our kids to read and to use these books to teach our children right from wrong (presuming we ALL know exactly what is right and what is wrong, especially when it comes to history). I'm not saying that all books are okay to read to our children--I won't be reading Mein Kampf to my daughter any time soon to explain to her the evils of Naziism--but I do think this book is a good stepping stone for some healthy discussions about the birth of the nation of the USA.
On a side note, this book was first published in 1954. People were still calling Native Americans "Indians," and I'm not going claim to know how much of history had been revised then, but I know much more has come to light since then. Another interesting point of discussion.
I think this book offers an opportunity for parents and educators to discuss different points of view, to look at history in all its ugliness as well as beauty, and to contrast such stories with points of view from other peoples involved, including of course those of Native Americans of various tribes. We cannot change what happened, and trying to walk in peoples' shoes, even if it's really uncomfortable, can be enlightening.
I personally enjoyed this book, and I can't fault Sarah for being afraid to walk through unknown woods and encounter people of a culture so tremendously different from her own, even if her views were, yes, condescending at times. But I know better and can read without necessarily agreeing with the views depicted. As parents and educators, it's our responsibility to know what we're giving our kids to read and to use these books to teach our children right from wrong (presuming we ALL know exactly what is right and what is wrong, especially when it comes to history). I'm not saying that all books are okay to read to our children--I won't be reading Mein Kampf to my daughter any time soon to explain to her the evils of Naziism--but I do think this book is a good stepping stone for some healthy discussions about the birth of the nation of the USA.
On a side note, this book was first published in 1954. People were still calling Native Americans "Indians," and I'm not going claim to know how much of history had been revised then, but I know much more has come to light since then. Another interesting point of discussion.
February 7, 2009
Summary: this tells the story of Sarah Noble who traveled with her father in 1707 to help build their family's new home in New Milford, CT. It is on the list of books not recommended by the Oyate website.
Response 1 (before reading the Oyate evaluation): As I am reading, I am going to record my predictions of what the Oyate reviewers will find disturbing:
- the purchase of the land by the white men
- the Robinson children's manner of talking about "the Indians" (p. 10-11) and Mrs. Robinson's use of the word "savages"
- Sarah's constant fear of them (not that she was scared so much as the treatment of her fear, the lack of critical discussion of why she is afraid of them or whether she should be)
- it is yet another book from the white perspective (contrast with just the first few pages of "The Birchbark House")
- Sarah's comment that the children she meets are hardly dressed and can't speak English (p. 266-28)
- the use of the word "Indian" to describe the people whose land they have moved to instead of respecting the differences among tribes and being specific (this is the way I learned about "Indians" in school - as one homogeneous group with no tribal or regional distinctions)
- the illustration on page 27
- John and Sarah Noble's renaming of a "tall Indian" whom he will call Tall John, since he cannot say his name (p. 32) and of his children whom Sarah renames Small John and Mary
Overall, there are many troubling images and terms in this story, but I do believe it accurately reflects the feelings of many white people in 1707. It was also written in 1954, which adds to its representation as well. This book, like "Little House on the Prairie," which is also on Oyate's "Not Recommended" list, do relate the way many people felt at that time, and perhaps the reason they are on the "Not Recommended" list is because they do so with no critical discussion of those feelings. For example, in Sarah Noble, it is reasonable that with her experiences and they stories she has heard, that Sarah Noble herself may be fearful of meeting "the Indians"; however, the author has no critical approach to these fears, and they are presented as if they are reasonable. This book, with all its troubling details, is perhaps most troubling in its overall voice and perspective: instead of helping other white readers to examine Sarah's fears and to think about what her arrival might also mean for the people who already live there, Sarah is presented as being courageous for having faced her fears and survived her hardships, and the contact she grows to have with "the Indians" is all rather condescending and one-sided.
Response 2 (after reading the Oyate evaluation): Reading Doris Seale's evaluation of this book was an excellent exercise in "insider/outsider" understanding for me. As an "outsider," I was able to pick up many of the problematic elements of the book, and I was also able to step back and view the problems in the perspective and overall presentation. I referred to the time period it depicts and to the time period in which it was written, and wondered what to do with this question. However, once I read Doris Seale's "insider" perspective, I realized that there is a depth to her evaluation that is definitely lacking in mine. While you could line up our points side by side and see that we wrote about many of the same details, she writes with a much more critical eye to the harm this book does. She evaluates the authenticity of details (which I certainly cannot do), but she also places this book in the larger context of how Native people have been presented in white literature over time, and she discusses the cumulative effect and harm this has caused. I am so glad I tried to evaluate this book on my own first, and I did ok; but it emphasized for me the power of listening to people represent themselves rather than being represented by others. Part of the point Seale makes is that Alice Dalgliesh made not attempts to research or depict "the Indians" and, had she done so, had she felt there was a need to do so, this might be a different book. This speaks to the point that one does not have to be an insider of a culture to write about it, but I feel one must first of all respect the complexities of that culture and one must also be critically aware of their own status in taking on the task of writing about another culture.
Response 1 (before reading the Oyate evaluation): As I am reading, I am going to record my predictions of what the Oyate reviewers will find disturbing:
- the purchase of the land by the white men
- the Robinson children's manner of talking about "the Indians" (p. 10-11) and Mrs. Robinson's use of the word "savages"
- Sarah's constant fear of them (not that she was scared so much as the treatment of her fear, the lack of critical discussion of why she is afraid of them or whether she should be)
- it is yet another book from the white perspective (contrast with just the first few pages of "The Birchbark House")
- Sarah's comment that the children she meets are hardly dressed and can't speak English (p. 266-28)
- the use of the word "Indian" to describe the people whose land they have moved to instead of respecting the differences among tribes and being specific (this is the way I learned about "Indians" in school - as one homogeneous group with no tribal or regional distinctions)
- the illustration on page 27
- John and Sarah Noble's renaming of a "tall Indian" whom he will call Tall John, since he cannot say his name (p. 32) and of his children whom Sarah renames Small John and Mary
Overall, there are many troubling images and terms in this story, but I do believe it accurately reflects the feelings of many white people in 1707. It was also written in 1954, which adds to its representation as well. This book, like "Little House on the Prairie," which is also on Oyate's "Not Recommended" list, do relate the way many people felt at that time, and perhaps the reason they are on the "Not Recommended" list is because they do so with no critical discussion of those feelings. For example, in Sarah Noble, it is reasonable that with her experiences and they stories she has heard, that Sarah Noble herself may be fearful of meeting "the Indians"; however, the author has no critical approach to these fears, and they are presented as if they are reasonable. This book, with all its troubling details, is perhaps most troubling in its overall voice and perspective: instead of helping other white readers to examine Sarah's fears and to think about what her arrival might also mean for the people who already live there, Sarah is presented as being courageous for having faced her fears and survived her hardships, and the contact she grows to have with "the Indians" is all rather condescending and one-sided.
Response 2 (after reading the Oyate evaluation): Reading Doris Seale's evaluation of this book was an excellent exercise in "insider/outsider" understanding for me. As an "outsider," I was able to pick up many of the problematic elements of the book, and I was also able to step back and view the problems in the perspective and overall presentation. I referred to the time period it depicts and to the time period in which it was written, and wondered what to do with this question. However, once I read Doris Seale's "insider" perspective, I realized that there is a depth to her evaluation that is definitely lacking in mine. While you could line up our points side by side and see that we wrote about many of the same details, she writes with a much more critical eye to the harm this book does. She evaluates the authenticity of details (which I certainly cannot do), but she also places this book in the larger context of how Native people have been presented in white literature over time, and she discusses the cumulative effect and harm this has caused. I am so glad I tried to evaluate this book on my own first, and I did ok; but it emphasized for me the power of listening to people represent themselves rather than being represented by others. Part of the point Seale makes is that Alice Dalgliesh made not attempts to research or depict "the Indians" and, had she done so, had she felt there was a need to do so, this might be a different book. This speaks to the point that one does not have to be an insider of a culture to write about it, but I feel one must first of all respect the complexities of that culture and one must also be critically aware of their own status in taking on the task of writing about another culture.
January 10, 2012
The simple yet lovely writing structure and the beautiful black and brown illustrations by Leonard Weisgard places this book in my list of favorite childhood reads that spawned a lifelong love of historical fiction and non-fiction.
Sarah Noble was an 8 year old girl who traveled with her father to the Connecticut wilderness in 1707. They became the first white settlers in what is now New Milford, Connecticut.
I was somewhat surprised to find that this book is controversial for it's portrayal of native American/white relations. While there are a few deragotory references made by 1-2 secondary characters about the native American people, I felt author Dalgliesh made a point of making Sarah's father (and later Sarah) a voice of acceptance and love towards their native American neighbors. I also noted that this book was published in 1954 (not the most PC of decades), so I was willing to cut it some slack. Frankly, I'm a bit tired of having literature written 30+ years ago brought under the always-ready-to-take-offense PC police. It is what it is. I'd like to think we as human beings have enough smarts to take literature as a reflection of the time period it was written, and enjoy whatever simple joys and truths some of these little gems may hold (or conversely choose not to expose yourself or your children to them if it sticks in your crawl). I think even controversial literature can provide learning lessons and open a dialog towards greater understanding.
Personally, I was captivated by this simple little story, and am happy to give it the 5 stars I feel it deserves.
***
2012 personal reading challenge for the month of January:
Childhood favorites that influenced my subsequent reading life
Adult Equivalent:
Follow the River by James Alexander Thom
Sarah Noble was an 8 year old girl who traveled with her father to the Connecticut wilderness in 1707. They became the first white settlers in what is now New Milford, Connecticut.
I was somewhat surprised to find that this book is controversial for it's portrayal of native American/white relations. While there are a few deragotory references made by 1-2 secondary characters about the native American people, I felt author Dalgliesh made a point of making Sarah's father (and later Sarah) a voice of acceptance and love towards their native American neighbors. I also noted that this book was published in 1954 (not the most PC of decades), so I was willing to cut it some slack. Frankly, I'm a bit tired of having literature written 30+ years ago brought under the always-ready-to-take-offense PC police. It is what it is. I'd like to think we as human beings have enough smarts to take literature as a reflection of the time period it was written, and enjoy whatever simple joys and truths some of these little gems may hold (or conversely choose not to expose yourself or your children to them if it sticks in your crawl). I think even controversial literature can provide learning lessons and open a dialog towards greater understanding.
Personally, I was captivated by this simple little story, and am happy to give it the 5 stars I feel it deserves.
***
2012 personal reading challenge for the month of January:
Childhood favorites that influenced my subsequent reading life
Adult Equivalent:
Follow the River by James Alexander Thom
October 24, 2022
I don't know when I read this... just that I read it probably 6 or more times as a young girl. 😁
December 2, 2024
This was very good for a ya/jf book, though a tad inaccurate with Sarah Nobles story, from what I recall it was a bit darker and more violent but as this is for a specific age group, I can certainly see why it's a lot lighter in subject matter. The art within was very beautiful, and the author did a fair representation of the story. I can certainly see why this won the Newberry. 4.5 ⭐
March 15, 2026
I recently finished The Courage of Sarah Noble by Alice Dalgliesh, and I found it to be a deeply meaningful and quietly powerful little book. Though written for younger readers, it carries themes that resonate with adults as well: courage, trust, responsibility, and the importance of meeting the unfamiliar with an open heart.
The story follows young Sarah Noble as she travels with her father into the wilderness to help build a new home. What struck me most was that Sarah’s courage is not dramatic or heroic in the usual sense. Instead, it is the everyday bravery of a child facing fear, loneliness, and the unknown. She remembers her mother’s advice to “keep up her courage,” and through that simple idea the story shows how inner strength can guide someone through difficult situations.
I also appreciated how the book portrays the meeting between settlers and Native Americans. Rather than presenting hostility or prejudice, the story emphasizes curiosity, kindness, and human connection. The Native Americans Sarah meets are portrayed sympathetically, and the heart of the story becomes a moment of friendship and trust between people from two different cultures. I saw no racism in the narrative; instead it felt like a gentle lesson about overcoming fear of the unfamiliar and recognizing shared humanity.
For such a short book, it leaves a lasting impression. It reminds readers that courage often means simply doing what is right despite being afraid, and that kindness can bridge cultural divides.
In the end, The Courage of Sarah Noble is a warm, thoughtful story that still speaks clearly today. It is simple, sincere, and memorable—a small classic that deserves to be read and appreciated.
The story follows young Sarah Noble as she travels with her father into the wilderness to help build a new home. What struck me most was that Sarah’s courage is not dramatic or heroic in the usual sense. Instead, it is the everyday bravery of a child facing fear, loneliness, and the unknown. She remembers her mother’s advice to “keep up her courage,” and through that simple idea the story shows how inner strength can guide someone through difficult situations.
I also appreciated how the book portrays the meeting between settlers and Native Americans. Rather than presenting hostility or prejudice, the story emphasizes curiosity, kindness, and human connection. The Native Americans Sarah meets are portrayed sympathetically, and the heart of the story becomes a moment of friendship and trust between people from two different cultures. I saw no racism in the narrative; instead it felt like a gentle lesson about overcoming fear of the unfamiliar and recognizing shared humanity.
For such a short book, it leaves a lasting impression. It reminds readers that courage often means simply doing what is right despite being afraid, and that kindness can bridge cultural divides.
In the end, The Courage of Sarah Noble is a warm, thoughtful story that still speaks clearly today. It is simple, sincere, and memorable—a small classic that deserves to be read and appreciated.
January 30, 2025
This is the first chapter book my Yr3 boy finished reading aloud (or sometimes to himself) and narrating to me. I worried he would balk at the girl main character but it didn’t faze him, he loved that they were the same age. He feels very proud of his accomplishment, as he should :)
September 30, 2021
Sarah Noble accompanies her father to the wilderness of Connecticut to build a new cabin before they are joined by the rest of the family. A Native American tribe lives nearby on the banks of the river, and Sarah befriends the native children. Through every step of their journey and as the family settles into their new home, Sarah's courage is tested, but she curtails her fears, and remains steadfast and resilient through it all.
I loved this book when I was a little girl! It truly inspired me with courage. I wanted to be just like Sarah, steadfast in the midst of new and anxious circumstances. And like Sarah, I was a child living in the middle of a culture different to my own, making friends with children who did not speak my language. Even as an adult, I am inspired by this beautiful story of friendship and courage!
I love the simple writing style. Every sentence is full of meaning and hidden depths, but the basic story is simple and straightforward. Sarah is a very insightful person, and she notices details around her that bring a lot of significance and worth to the story.
Each chapter is another little step on Sarah's journey, both in settling into a new land, and also her internal journey of finding out just how brave she can be. Her character development is delightful to see!
I love the way deep themes about family and culture are explored in this book, but in a plain and quiet way so that even a child can understand. Sarah compares her family's loving behavior to the way that other families behave and live. It's a powerful message of trust and kindness!
I just love everything about this book!
I loved this book when I was a little girl! It truly inspired me with courage. I wanted to be just like Sarah, steadfast in the midst of new and anxious circumstances. And like Sarah, I was a child living in the middle of a culture different to my own, making friends with children who did not speak my language. Even as an adult, I am inspired by this beautiful story of friendship and courage!
I love the simple writing style. Every sentence is full of meaning and hidden depths, but the basic story is simple and straightforward. Sarah is a very insightful person, and she notices details around her that bring a lot of significance and worth to the story.
Each chapter is another little step on Sarah's journey, both in settling into a new land, and also her internal journey of finding out just how brave she can be. Her character development is delightful to see!
I love the way deep themes about family and culture are explored in this book, but in a plain and quiet way so that even a child can understand. Sarah compares her family's loving behavior to the way that other families behave and live. It's a powerful message of trust and kindness!
I just love everything about this book!
October 17, 2020
4 stars & 4/10 hearts. Ah, Sarah. This was one of my first “real books” and also one of the first books I learned to read English from. Many such books quickly get boring, but Sarah never was. I always loved her and her story and still do. This is a quick, sweet book, well done but easy to read. Sarah, her father, Tall John, his family, even Sarah’s mother… they are all so nice! I particularly love Tall John. Definitely one of the best children’s/beginning reader books!
A Favourite Quote: “‘Soon we shall have a fine house like Mistress Robertson’s.’
“‘No,’ said Sarah. ‘Like our own.’
“‘And why not like Mistress Robertson’s?’
“‘Because there is no love in that house,’ said Sarah.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Beyond the valley there were green hills, and beyond… and beyond… and beyond… more hills of a strange, soft and misty blue.
“The trees were of the dark green of firs and the light green of birches in springtime. And now they were friendly.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “A branch snapped in the darkness.
“‘Father?’
“‘Yes, Sarah?’
“‘Do not be afraid, Father, I think an owl… f-fell off a branch!’ ...
“Then came a strong odor that made Sarah choke.
“‘Father?’
“‘Yes, Sarah?’
“‘It is a SKUNK!’
“John Noble laughed out loud. ‘Indeed it is. And a good thing I have you here, Sarah, to keep me from being afraid of all these strange visitors.’”
A Favourite Quote: “‘Soon we shall have a fine house like Mistress Robertson’s.’
“‘No,’ said Sarah. ‘Like our own.’
“‘And why not like Mistress Robertson’s?’
“‘Because there is no love in that house,’ said Sarah.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Beyond the valley there were green hills, and beyond… and beyond… and beyond… more hills of a strange, soft and misty blue.
“The trees were of the dark green of firs and the light green of birches in springtime. And now they were friendly.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “A branch snapped in the darkness.
“‘Father?’
“‘Yes, Sarah?’
“‘Do not be afraid, Father, I think an owl… f-fell off a branch!’ ...
“Then came a strong odor that made Sarah choke.
“‘Father?’
“‘Yes, Sarah?’
“‘It is a SKUNK!’
“John Noble laughed out loud. ‘Indeed it is. And a good thing I have you here, Sarah, to keep me from being afraid of all these strange visitors.’”
August 17, 2019
This book is a treasure. Even though it was published in the mid-1950s, it does not feel dated, and the illustrations still seem to jump off of the pages.
I enjoyed reading it as an adult, and girls in grades 1-4 would probably enjoy it as much as I did.
I enjoyed reading it as an adult, and girls in grades 1-4 would probably enjoy it as much as I did.
May 12, 2022
Just read this with my brothers! It was a good story overall. But it was kinda annoying that they kept saying "keep up your courage Sarah Noble." It probably was repeated every two pages or less.
February 21, 2015
Really nice story. I will be sharing it with my 9 year old daughter. I was surprised at how contemporary the thought processes were, given the year it was published (1954). It has very good themes about inclusion, racism, and the courage it takes to embrace others different from you when your culture is against it--but simplistic enough that it is eminently readable.
May 12, 2018
I love this book
June 7, 2018
It's not that bad: A defense of Sarah Noble
Read in the most flattering light, Sarah Noble is a story of relationships conquering racism. There are many attitudes towards American Indians expressed in the novel, and the characters who have the most contact with the Indians become the least racist about them. For example, Sarah Noble is terrified of the Indians until she spends some time with them.
Some readers complain about the passage in which Sarah wonders whether she is allowed to pray for Indians. This is actually a great passage for showing changes in attitude. Sarah goes from a background of assuming that Indians are less than human to deciding to pray for them to ultimately feeling kinship for them. Authenticity is a bigger issue, though.
The authenticity problem
How accurate is this book, and how much should Alice Dalgliesh be held accountable? The most obvious issue with the book is that the Indians are never named by group. I infer that they are meant to be Wampanoag*, but it would have been more appropriate for Dalgliesh to be specific. Based on my limited knowledge and what I read on Wiki, Dalgliesh's story seems mostly reasonable. Experts prove me wrong, though.
According to American Indian historians, Dalgliesh's descriptions of the clothing, village size, lifestyle, and village structure are all way off.
In Dalgiesh's defense, there were probably not a lot of resources available when she wrote the book. Compared to other Newbery winners from the '50s, it fares okay. There are some honor books like The Corn Grows Ripe that are clearly more accurate, but also some real dogs like Amos Fortune, Free Man that are unbearably bad.
On second thought, this book shares a sense of fuzziness with The Bears on Hemlock Mountain. In that book, I kept wondering if the protagonists were Pennsylvania Dutch (aka German immigrants), but could find nothing specific. Ethnic details seem to be a failing for this author.
Recommended for: Nobody, really. "Not that bad" is hardly a good reason to pick up a book. I guess if you were teaching about American folklore and myth-making, it might be an interesting example.
* Turns out I guessed wrong, as you can see in the comments section.
Read in the most flattering light, Sarah Noble is a story of relationships conquering racism. There are many attitudes towards American Indians expressed in the novel, and the characters who have the most contact with the Indians become the least racist about them. For example, Sarah Noble is terrified of the Indians until she spends some time with them.
Some readers complain about the passage in which Sarah wonders whether she is allowed to pray for Indians. This is actually a great passage for showing changes in attitude. Sarah goes from a background of assuming that Indians are less than human to deciding to pray for them to ultimately feeling kinship for them. Authenticity is a bigger issue, though.
The authenticity problem
How accurate is this book, and how much should Alice Dalgliesh be held accountable? The most obvious issue with the book is that the Indians are never named by group. I infer that they are meant to be Wampanoag*, but it would have been more appropriate for Dalgliesh to be specific. Based on my limited knowledge and what I read on Wiki, Dalgliesh's story seems mostly reasonable. Experts prove me wrong, though.
According to American Indian historians, Dalgliesh's descriptions of the clothing, village size, lifestyle, and village structure are all way off.
In Dalgiesh's defense, there were probably not a lot of resources available when she wrote the book. Compared to other Newbery winners from the '50s, it fares okay. There are some honor books like The Corn Grows Ripe that are clearly more accurate, but also some real dogs like Amos Fortune, Free Man that are unbearably bad.
On second thought, this book shares a sense of fuzziness with The Bears on Hemlock Mountain. In that book, I kept wondering if the protagonists were Pennsylvania Dutch (aka German immigrants), but could find nothing specific. Ethnic details seem to be a failing for this author.
Recommended for: Nobody, really. "Not that bad" is hardly a good reason to pick up a book. I guess if you were teaching about American folklore and myth-making, it might be an interesting example.
* Turns out I guessed wrong, as you can see in the comments section.
March 20, 2016
ZERO STARS, for its appalling depiction of Native Americans. In "The Courage of Sarah Noble", Sarah's courage is praised, but just what is it that Sarah is facing with such bravery? "Indians [who] will eat you." Sarah is afraid of things in the dark, because they might be Indians. She freezes "still as a rabbit in danger" when Indian children approach. When she finally musters up the much-applauded courage to interact, she can't be bothered with "the long, long names of the children, so she called the boy Small John and the girl Mary." There are billions of books in the world, and ones like this don't belong anywhere near my bookshelf.
February 16, 2024
The issues brought up for this book sound similar to the same concerns with Little House. However, in both books, I find that the racism of the time is described, not defended. When racist and derogatory remarks are made by Robinson and Sarah's mother, both are refuted by the characters we are more tied to - namely, Sarah and her father. I thought that introducing Sarah's mother immediately following the chapters where Sarah was so well cared for by Tall John and his family, was particularly brilliant. Here we have come to see Sarah overcome her own fears, and to love those who loved her and her father well, and then are abruptly brought face to face with these horrendous comments by Sarah's mother, with whom we have little to no emotional connection to in the story. We were as indignant as Sarah in refuting her mother's comments. This brought up excellent conversation for me and my children (ages 10, 8, and 6). I can see where some of the comments may be confusing for younger listeners, particularly because the concerning comments come from mothers or mother figures, but I'm very glad my older girls and I read this together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2022
Rating: 4.5 stars
This was SUCH a sweet story!! It reminded me a bit of a younger, shorter version of Caddie Woodlawn. Sarah was so sweet, and I loved her father and the Indians. This was a short little story that can easily be read in one sitting. It would make a lovely read-aloud book for little children. The style is simple and so is the story, but I just loved it so much. I wish I'd had it when I was little! I think it would probably be enjoyed most by ages 5-8, give or take a year or so. But it's definitely a book you could never be too old for, even though it is obviously a children's book. Really enjoyed this sweet story!
This was SUCH a sweet story!! It reminded me a bit of a younger, shorter version of Caddie Woodlawn. Sarah was so sweet, and I loved her father and the Indians. This was a short little story that can easily be read in one sitting. It would make a lovely read-aloud book for little children. The style is simple and so is the story, but I just loved it so much. I wish I'd had it when I was little! I think it would probably be enjoyed most by ages 5-8, give or take a year or so. But it's definitely a book you could never be too old for, even though it is obviously a children's book. Really enjoyed this sweet story!
May 19, 2025
Read-aloud with 5yo girl.
Why do children’s book always make me cry?
This story of the great love a little girl had for her father and her family, will stick with me. A story of bravery and selflessness, but also of extended welcome and kindness to those unlike you. I predict we will be returning to this story again and again.
Why do children’s book always make me cry?
This story of the great love a little girl had for her father and her family, will stick with me. A story of bravery and selflessness, but also of extended welcome and kindness to those unlike you. I predict we will be returning to this story again and again.
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June 17, 2020It has been a long time since I read it... I have to review it.
May 27, 2017
This review also appears on my blog, Read-at-Home Mom.
The Courage of Sarah Noble is a short chapter book set in 1707, which is suitable for second and third graders. It tells the story of a real child who accompanies her father into the wilderness to cook his meals while he builds their family a new home. Sarah is nervous, but reminds herself of her mother's advice to hold on to her courage. When Sarah's father goes back to bring the rest of the family to the new house, Sarah must stay behind with Tall John, an Indian who lives nearby, and his family. Since she does not speak their language or understand many of their customs, she once again finds herself feeling uncertain and needing to summon her courage.
For the time period in which it was written and the age group whom it targets, this book is a decent introduction into life in the early American wilderness. Though some characters express stereotypical fears and concerns about the native people living near them, these are put down by Sarah's father and shown to be foolish and insensitive things to say. Perhaps Sarah and her father are a little too kind and a little too enlightened to be realistic, but this is a chapter book for beginning readers, and the sunny outlook is certainly age appropriate. There are reviews all over Goodreads condemning this book as racist for all sorts of reasons, many of which contradict each other. Instead of finding a way to be offended, as is the popular thing to do these days, I'd rather look at the book as a product of its time and use it in the way I believe it was intended - to introduce concepts of tolerance and kindness to young kids for whom this age-old subject matter is brand-new territory.
The Courage of Sarah Noble is a short chapter book set in 1707, which is suitable for second and third graders. It tells the story of a real child who accompanies her father into the wilderness to cook his meals while he builds their family a new home. Sarah is nervous, but reminds herself of her mother's advice to hold on to her courage. When Sarah's father goes back to bring the rest of the family to the new house, Sarah must stay behind with Tall John, an Indian who lives nearby, and his family. Since she does not speak their language or understand many of their customs, she once again finds herself feeling uncertain and needing to summon her courage.
For the time period in which it was written and the age group whom it targets, this book is a decent introduction into life in the early American wilderness. Though some characters express stereotypical fears and concerns about the native people living near them, these are put down by Sarah's father and shown to be foolish and insensitive things to say. Perhaps Sarah and her father are a little too kind and a little too enlightened to be realistic, but this is a chapter book for beginning readers, and the sunny outlook is certainly age appropriate. There are reviews all over Goodreads condemning this book as racist for all sorts of reasons, many of which contradict each other. Instead of finding a way to be offended, as is the popular thing to do these days, I'd rather look at the book as a product of its time and use it in the way I believe it was intended - to introduce concepts of tolerance and kindness to young kids for whom this age-old subject matter is brand-new territory.
February 2, 2021
I'm having a hard time rating this book. I appreciate its message of tolerance and friendship with people who appear different from oneself. I like the caring relationship between Sarah and her father. I also like the focus on finding courage within oneself when things get scary.
However, the writing strikes me as outdated, oddly detached, and stilted. Despite Sarah's new understanding of the "Indians" as friendly neighbors, they are portrayed as one-dimensional accessories to the story, rather than fully fleshed characters. The relationship between Sarah and her father feels oddly modern. And simultaneously the story reads like an old-timey Sunday school story: cloying, and holier than thou, and condescending. And the friendship extended by the "Indian" family to the settlers is not in fact returned in equal measure.
I don't mean to judge a 70 year old book, or a 300 year old story, by today's standards. There are many aspects of the story that I don't like (such as Sarah's refusal to learn her "foster family's" names when they learn hers just fine); but then these details are probably fairly accurate, and that's not the author's fault. However, I still wouldn't choose to recommend this book to kids, just because there are so many better children's books available.
At the very least it would have been nice for Sarah's parents to express a modicum of gratitude towards "Tall John" and his family for the care and love they have given Sarah. I'm pretty sure the concept of gratitude for free childcare provided by complete strangers existed even in 1707 and 1954.
However, the writing strikes me as outdated, oddly detached, and stilted. Despite Sarah's new understanding of the "Indians" as friendly neighbors, they are portrayed as one-dimensional accessories to the story, rather than fully fleshed characters. The relationship between Sarah and her father feels oddly modern. And simultaneously the story reads like an old-timey Sunday school story: cloying, and holier than thou, and condescending. And the friendship extended by the "Indian" family to the settlers is not in fact returned in equal measure.
I don't mean to judge a 70 year old book, or a 300 year old story, by today's standards. There are many aspects of the story that I don't like (such as Sarah's refusal to learn her "foster family's" names when they learn hers just fine); but then these details are probably fairly accurate, and that's not the author's fault. However, I still wouldn't choose to recommend this book to kids, just because there are so many better children's books available.
At the very least it would have been nice for Sarah's parents to express a modicum of gratitude towards "Tall John" and his family for the care and love they have given Sarah. I'm pretty sure the concept of gratitude for free childcare provided by complete strangers existed even in 1707 and 1954.
February 14, 2020
A great, first chapter book to introduce to your children!
Cleanliness:
Religious & Supernatural - 1 Incident: Mentions that the Indians pray to "their Great Spirit" as Sarah prays to hers.
Violence - 1 Incident: Two boys tease a girl about how Indians will chop off her head or skin her alive.
Illustrations - 1 Incident: Some naked Indian children (some with loincloths /some without)
Conversation Topics - 1 Incident: Mentions children not wearing clothes.
Parent Takeaway
A story about courage, responsibility and doing what's right.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! You’ll see my updates as I’m reading and know which books I’m liking and what I’m not finishing and why. You’ll also be able to utilize my library for looking up titles to see whether the book you’re thinking about reading next has any objectionable content or not. From swear words, to romance, to bad attitudes (in children’s books), I cover it all!
Cleanliness:
Religious & Supernatural - 1 Incident: Mentions that the Indians pray to "their Great Spirit" as Sarah prays to hers.
Violence - 1 Incident: Two boys tease a girl about how Indians will chop off her head or skin her alive.
Illustrations - 1 Incident: Some naked Indian children (some with loincloths /some without)
Conversation Topics - 1 Incident: Mentions children not wearing clothes.
Parent Takeaway
A story about courage, responsibility and doing what's right.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! You’ll see my updates as I’m reading and know which books I’m liking and what I’m not finishing and why. You’ll also be able to utilize my library for looking up titles to see whether the book you’re thinking about reading next has any objectionable content or not. From swear words, to romance, to bad attitudes (in children’s books), I cover it all!
February 12, 2020
This was our first finish today. We listened to the #audible audiobook to finish it out. It is our read for our #readingwithhistory adventure through BookShark Level 3. It is also the current Literature Study for my 8-year-old Princess from Memoria Press Simply Classical. We listened to it so that all could hear it (10, 8, 5, and 2.5). My oldest remembered adoring the book when she first learned to read chapter books.
This is a friendly story of adventure and interaction with Indians of North America with the fact if a poor attitude and loveless home being the antagonist. Sarah Noble is a good example with holding on to her courage. As a parent reading this and seeing how her father and mother react to certain decisions is quite interesting.
We read this after The Thanksgiving Story and The Bears on Hemlock Mountain by the same author. It is a shame that our collection of Dalgleish books ends here. Whatever will we read next?
We own a vintage sepia toned jacketed hardcover of this novel as well as the Audible audiobook. We also have access to a Kindle copy in a trial to Freetime Unlimited.
This is a friendly story of adventure and interaction with Indians of North America with the fact if a poor attitude and loveless home being the antagonist. Sarah Noble is a good example with holding on to her courage. As a parent reading this and seeing how her father and mother react to certain decisions is quite interesting.
We read this after The Thanksgiving Story and The Bears on Hemlock Mountain by the same author. It is a shame that our collection of Dalgleish books ends here. Whatever will we read next?
We own a vintage sepia toned jacketed hardcover of this novel as well as the Audible audiobook. We also have access to a Kindle copy in a trial to Freetime Unlimited.
January 13, 2014
I'm seriously rethinking my goal of reading all Newbery medal and honor books. Some of the early ones are very silly and not worth the time spent in reading them.
This was a Newbery honor book from 1955 regarding a young nine year old girl who travels in the wilderness with her father to stake claim to land cleared by American Indians. Sarah befriends the Indians and stays with them when her father returns home to fetch the rest of the family to live in the house newly built with the help of the Indians.
Perhaps at the time it was written it was refreshing to see American Indians portrayed positively. I was born in 1952 and as a child remember playing cowboys and indians with plastic figures. The Indians were always the bad guys.
Many Western tv shows were a hit in the 1950's and the heros were the white men who traveled west, killing the Indians. ( )
This was a Newbery honor book from 1955 regarding a young nine year old girl who travels in the wilderness with her father to stake claim to land cleared by American Indians. Sarah befriends the Indians and stays with them when her father returns home to fetch the rest of the family to live in the house newly built with the help of the Indians.
Perhaps at the time it was written it was refreshing to see American Indians portrayed positively. I was born in 1952 and as a child remember playing cowboys and indians with plastic figures. The Indians were always the bad guys.
Many Western tv shows were a hit in the 1950's and the heros were the white men who traveled west, killing the Indians. ( )
December 17, 2025
I recently found this in the children's library I work at and remembered it as my favorite book of third grade. I was thrilled to be able to read it again. I'd forgotten that it is based on a true story, making it all the more important. I love Sarah's character development as she continuously faces challenges that most eight year olds would not have to face. Living in the woods with her father to cook with him, far away from her home and family, she learns to fend for herself. When her father needs to retrieve the rest of the family, he leaves her alone with a Native American family. This challenge forces her to pull out all of her courage. This is a beautiful story that I definitely recommend. Being less than 100 pages, it is the perfect length for a child of about Sarah's age.
October 27, 2022
In the early 1700's a Father brings his daughter Sarah with him to land they will settle. He leaves behind his wife and other children and will fetch them with their belongings after the cabin is built.
Sarah's courage is tested when her Father leaves her to stay with a Native American family while he travels back to fetch Sarah's mother and siblings. Sarah adapts to living with her Native American family and realizes even though people may speak and look differently there are universal values of kindness, caring, respect and acceptance of another culture/race.
Sarah's courage is tested when her Father leaves her to stay with a Native American family while he travels back to fetch Sarah's mother and siblings. Sarah adapts to living with her Native American family and realizes even though people may speak and look differently there are universal values of kindness, caring, respect and acceptance of another culture/race.
May 17, 2024
A precious little book about a girl who kept her courage and found beautiful friendships.
June 11, 2025
This was great!!!
August 4, 2023
Listened to this book while on the road...very old fashioned roles of women, but I appreciated Sarah's growth in her understanding of a new culture.
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