A parent might reach for this book when their child finds history class dull or asks if girls were heroes in the 'old days'. This graphic novel tells the legendary story of Molly Pitcher, a woman who supported soldiers during the American Revolution's Battle of Monmouth. When her husband is wounded, she bravely takes his place at the cannon. It highlights themes of bravery, resilience, and doing what's right, even when you're afraid. The comic format makes this piece of history exciting and accessible for kids 8-12, especially reluctant readers, and offers a powerful role model who proves heroism isn't limited by gender.
The chaos and noise of battle could be intense for sensitive readers.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with the violence of war. Injury is shown (Molly's husband is wounded) and death is implied in battle scenes, but the graphic novel format keeps it from being gory. The approach is historical and secular. The resolution is hopeful, focusing on Molly's heroism and recognition, but it is set against the grim reality of a deadly battle.
Ideal Reader
A 9-year-old who loves action-adventure comics but whose parents want to introduce more historical content. It's also perfect for a child, particularly a girl, learning about the American Revolution who is looking for stories beyond the well-known founding fathers.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss the realities of war, as the illustrations depict battle, cannons firing, and soldiers collapsing from heat or injury. Previewing the battle sequence (pages 14-23) is a good idea to gauge if the intensity is right for your child. It's helpful to provide context that this was a real and dangerous event. A parent has just heard their child say, "History is boring and it's all about old guys," or is looking for a way to channel their child's love of superheroes into a nonfiction reading experience.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will likely focus on the action and Molly's 'superhero' moment at the cannon. They will see a clear story of good versus evil and a brave hero. An older reader (10-12) may grasp more nuance, such as the harsh conditions soldiers faced, the vital role of women in non-combat (and combat) roles, and the concept of how legends are born from real events.
What Makes It Special
Its primary differentiator is the graphic novel format, which makes a historical biography dynamic and highly accessible, especially for visual learners or reluctant readers. Unlike many history books that mention Molly Pitcher in a brief sidebar, this book puts her legendary actions front and center, offering a compelling, female-led narrative of the Revolution.
Read plot summary
This graphic novel recounts the legend of Molly Pitcher during the American Revolutionary War. At the Battle of Monmouth, Mary Hays (the historical basis for Molly) carries water to exhausted and overheated soldiers. When her husband, a cannoneer, is injured, she steps in and takes his place, bravely firing the cannon at the British forces. Her actions earn her the respect of the soldiers and the attention of General George Washington, cementing her status as a folk hero.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Molly's first job was carrying water, which seemed small but was very important. What are some small jobs in our family or classroom that are actually very important?
2
When Molly's husband was injured, she could have run away, but she chose to take his place at the cannon. Why do you think she made that choice? What would you have been most scared of in that moment?
3
The story says Molly Pitcher might be a legend based on a real person named Mary Hays. What is the difference between a legend and a true story? Why do we tell legends?
4
General Washington noticed Molly's bravery. Do you think it's important for leaders to notice when people do brave things? Why?
