Revolutionary Prudence Wright: Leading the Minute Women in the Fight for Independence
Illustrated by Susan Reagan
Here is the first-ever picture book about female Revolutionary War activist Prudence Wright, who rallied the first and only group of “minute women” to fight the British, changing history in the process.
Prudence Wright had a spark of independence.
Annoyed when the British king held back freedoms in colonial Massachusetts, feisty and fearless Prudence had enough. She said no! to British goods, determined to rely on her resourcefulness and ingenuity to get by. And when British troops continued to threaten the lives of her family and community, she assembled and led the “minute women” of Pepperell to break free of tradition.
This untold story of a courageous and brave woman from the Revolutionary War continues to inspire today.
Downloads: Educator Guide
Precious Paper: Crafts and Foldables for Revolutionary Prudence Wright
BOOKTALK: Kid Lit for Growing Minds – What would you do? for students
Activities from TeachingBooks.net
Book Trailer:
Honors:
- 2023 Bank Street College of Education Best Books of the Year
- Kansas National Education Association Reading Circle Commission Recommended Title
- Museum of the American Revolution Summer Reading List: 2023 Young Readers Edition
Reviews:
⭐️ “…Reagan’s accomplished illustrations, executed in watercolor with digital drawing, add historical veracity to Anderson’s superbly documented, at times hair-raising narrative. The author explicitly situates Wright and her female comrades as pioneers who “proved themselves as full citizens” in an era before female enfranchisement…Vivid, absorbing, and inspiring. ~ Kirkus
⭐️ “…an important glimpse into the roles that women played during the time period, showing that they often had to step into traditional male roles while still fulfilling their own. Readers will love that aspect of the story as much as they will admire Prudence’s leadership and “spark of independence” and the way in which the women banded together…a welcome addition in classroom and school libraries where the Revolutionary War collections need refreshing and diversifying.” ~Youth Services Book Review
“…In compact and dramatic fashion, this book conveys the issues that provoked the Revolutionary War, the divisions it created within families, and the role-defying actions undertaken by women of the time. Fine-line and watercolor illustrations teem with energy and emotion, establishing a colonial feel to the pages and making excellent use of spots and varied perspectives…Recommended. ~School Library Connection
“…How Prudence rallied the townswomen to arm themselves, kept watch at a bridge she realized would be used by Tory spies, and captured two messengers who planned to pass along information for the British informs makes for a thrilling tale. Striking digital drawings and watercolors are filled with details in mostly subdued colors, such as gray, brown, tan, and burgundy. Back matter includes an afterword, author’s note, illustrator’s note, and an impressive bibliography for further research. VERDICT This piece of American history is presented in an attractive package that will be readily enjoyed by readers of all ages. ~School Library Journal
“Combining digital drawings with traditional watercolor washes, the illustrations are nicely composed, well researched, and suitably dramatic…Presently a little-known story from the American Revolution, this attractive, informative picture book will be an asset to history units related to the period.” —Booklist
Blog Posts, Articles, and Podcasts:
Unpacking the Power of Picture Books: blog review
Writing and Illustrating blog from Kathy Temean: the book journey
Nerdy Book Club blog: Bringing History Home
Picture Book Look podcast: Beth Anderson, illustrator Susan Reagan and editor Carolyn Yoder talk about REVOLUTIONARY PRUDENCE WRIGHT
GROG Blog: The Power of Imagery article
Publisher’s Weekly article: Books for Young Readers Celebrate Women’s History Month
Rochelle Melander’s blog: Teaching Revolutionary Prudence Wright
Confetti Moments PODCAST with Courtney Hinshaw
Hardcover | $18.99 Published by Calkins Creek/Astra Books for Young Readers
Feb 01, 2022 | 48 Pages | 10-1/2 x 9-1/2| 7-10 years | ISBN 9781644720578
Available at booksellers near you and IndieBound• Bookshop.org • Amazon • Barnes & Noble • Books a Million
For signed copies of my books, visit Old Firehouse Books HERE.
Beth Anderson, Children's Writer 