Daughter of Liberty, A True Story of The American Revolution

by Robert Quackenbush
Available from Amazon
****

Wyn Mabie was a young wife, and lived with her aunt and her family. Her husband was away in the Continental Army, and Wyn often took horseback rides at night to work out some of her tension. One evening as she was returning from a ride, she met General Washington. As they spoke, he mentioned his concern for some strategic papers still hidden in his previous headquarters, now occupied by the British. Wyn volunteers to ride through the British lines, somehow make her way into the building, retrieve the papers, and return them to the general, a mission on which Nathan Hale had failed and lost his life. After prayer with her family, this courageous young woman sets out. The rest of the book follows her journey, and details some of her narrow escapes and painful determination, finally seeing her safely back with the papers.

This is the true account of a Dutch woman who made a dangerous journey to help General Washington and the Continental Army. Written for 3^rd graders, the 55 page book is easy to read and understand. The author, Robert Quackenbush, is proud to present this story, as it is part of his own family heritage.

Morgan the Jersey Spy

by James Otis
Available from Amazon and A Beka Book
****

In 1781, fourteen year old cousins Guy Peyton and Louis Poindexter wish they could be serving in the Continental Army with their fathers, but they were instructed to stay home with their mothers. Their fathers did say that they could participate in helping the Patriot cause if something came up that they could do, but only with their mothers’ permission. Both fathers and sons thought this could hardly occur, and all were surprised.

Guy and Louis were living outside Yorktown, and were having fun at the river when a man in a British red uniform accosted them. Morgan was an American spy for the Patriot cause, having enlisted in the British army to gain information. He asked them to carry a message to their fathers concerning the plans of the British. After receiving permission from their mothers, the boys began on their adventure, which takes them right into the British lines in Yorktown. Their courage and character is tested in the danger that follows.

I was pleased to read that although the boys were anxious to be involved in the war, respect and obedience to their parents ranked a higher authority. Many children’s adventures involve escapades carried out in spite of not having their parents knowledge, approval or permission. This adventure is in no way less exciting because the boys honored their parents and their parents’ wishes.

Written for teens, this book provides an adventure along with plenty of information about both armies in Yorktown. More interesting and memorable than a simple history lesson, the story gives material that will stick with the reader. Some children younger than teens may enjoy the story if it is read aloud, and older ones will enjoy breezing through it. Those who read the works of G. A. Henty will find this an easier though not simplistic read, in the same vein as Henty’s.

Add this one to your history adventure shelf!