After Samuel Collier is caught trying to steal the necklace that belonged to his dead mother, he is sent to Reverend Hunt's orphanage. Reverend Hunt is going to the New World to convert the Natives and takes Samuel along to work as a page for Captain John Smith. Samuel cannot believe his good fortune. He has heard that gold washes up on the shore; however, he soon learns that this adventure will not be easy. From the stormy sea voyage to first contact with the Natives, Samuel learns that the New World is beautiful and frightening. Samuel's account of those first years of the settlement, rife with political fighting, starvation, and sickness, are thrilling. Historical figures like Smith, Powhatan, and Pocahontas become real in this book. Included are author's notes, internet resources, and a teacher's link. This book is a nominee for the 2009-2010 California Young Reader Medal. If you are looking for historical fiction that is riveting, look no further than "Blood on the River James Town" 1607 by Elisa Carbone.