REVOLUTIONARY MARY

The True Story of One Woman, the Declaration of Independence, and America's Fight for Freedom

Roaring Brook Press, February 2025

written by Karen Blumenthal and Jen McCartney

Who was Mary Katharine Goddard?

Born in 1738, she was homeschooled by her mother in reading and math. She took over her brother’s printing shop a few years later and became an expert in printing newspapers, essays, and posters.

When the American Revolution started, she published important news that helped the fight against the British – even if it meant that if she was caught, she’d be punished for treason. In 1776, Mary was asked to print the Declaration of Independence – she is the only woman whose name is on the Declaration.

That was Mary.

Praise for REVOLUTIONARY MARY:

The art enhances this tale tenfold by making readers feel and vicariously suffer the hard work Goddard endured…An excellent purchase recommended to any library seeking to embolden readers of a new kind of revolutionary leader. ~School Library Journal (starred review)

The tale is filled with details of America’s revolutionary period, insights into Mary’s character, and the printing process—“Whoosh!” “Pound!” “Crank!”—all greatly enhanced by bright, sharply delineated illustrations accompanied by sepia insets that provide further historical information….A fascinating look at a thoughtful, courageous woman. ~Kirkus