Maritcha: A Nineteenth-Century American Girl

"Maritcha: A Nineteenth-Century American Girl" is a powerful, true story based on the memoir of Maritcha Remond Lyons. It offers a unique window into the life of a free Black child growing up in New York City during the Civil War era. The book covers her daily experiences, significant historical events like the U.S.'s first World's Fair, and the terrifying 1863 Draft Riots, which forced her family to flee. It culminates in her courageous legal battle to attend a whites-only high school and her eventual triumph as the first Black graduate. Richly illustrated with historical photographs and maps, this book is ideal for children aged 7-11, providing a deeply personal and accessible introduction to themes of resilience, justice, and American history.

Based on an actual memoir written by Maritcha Remond Lyons, who was born and raised in New York City, this poignant story tells what it was like to be a black child born free during the days of slavery. Everyday experiences are interspersed with hight-point moments, such as visiting the U.S.'s first world's fair. Also included are the Draft Riots of 1863, when Maritcha and her siblings fled to Brooklyn while her parents stayed behind to protect their home. The book concludes with her fight to attend a whites-only high school in Providence, Rhode Island, and her triumphant victory, making her the first black person in its graduating class. The book includes photographs of Maritcha, her family, and friends, as well as archival and contemporary maps, photographs, and illustrations.