Molly Pitcher: Young American Patriot (Graphic Biographies)

Description

Describes the legend of Revolutionary War heroine Molly Pitcher. Written in graphic-novel format.

Although even historians disagree about the actual personage (often thought to be Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley) presented here, the history captured in this graphic novel format should not be trivialized or dismissed by thoughts of "cartoons." While the format itself will actually draw readers from a wider range than a text-only presentation (even with occasional illustrations) may, it will also serve those more capable readers because of its facts and historical insights. During the late 18th century, the name Molly was used by shopkeepers as a form of respectful address. The author carefully explains this in the opening of the storyline but also reinforces (in the back matter) the information about how the 'Molly Pitcher' legend/story was very likely a compilation of many women who served/fought with the patriots during the American Revolutionary War. The history of the Battles at Brandywine Creek and Germantown in Pennsylvania is followed by the long and terrible winter the troops and many of their wives spent at Valley Forge. Later that year on June 28, 1778, the American soldiers caught up with the British near Monmouth County Courthouse, New Jersey. It was during this battle that Molly is credited with delivering water to her husband and other soldiers, thus earning her the name Pitcher. It was also here that she was thought to have taken over the firing of her husband's cannon after he collapsed (probably from heat exhaustion). These bare facts are the basis of the legend that grew around the name Molly Pitcher, but they were probably enhanced with the deeds of many other brave women who helped to secure freedom for the colonies. The historical facts in the back matter are accompanied by a glossary, useful Internet sites found through FactHound, a "Read More" section, a bibliography, and an index. For both its generalized terms and specific details, this is an extremely satisfactory look at the American Revolution for students who wish to expand their knowledge of a seminal time in the development of U.S. history. Part of the "Graphic Library" series, this book's reading level is rated as 4th grade with an interest level range from 3rd to 9th.-- "Children's Literature Comprehensive Database"