The Only Woman Whose Name Is on the Declaration of Independence
A TRUE TALE WITH
A CHERRY ON TOP
Christy Ottaviano Books (pub.1.25.2022) 40 pages
Author: Ella Schwartz
Illustrator: Dow Phumiruk
Character: Mary Katharine Goddard
Overview:
"Born in 1738, Mary Katharine Goddard came of age in colonial Connecticut as the burgeoning nation prepared for the American Revolution. As a businesswoman and a newspaper publisher, Goddard paved the way for influential Revolutionary media. Her remarkable accomplishments as a woman defied societal norms and set the stage for a free and open press.
When the Continental Congress decreed that the Declaration of Independence be widely distributed, one person rose to the occasion and printed the document—boldly inserting her name at the bottom with a printing credit: Mary Katharine Goddard."
Tantalizing taste:
"Most parents in colonial America thought girls should only learn to cook, sew, and take care of the house, but Mary Katharine's parents disagreed. They wanted their daughter to have the same education as her brother, William. Mary Katharine learned how to read and write just as well as her brother. They were mostly taught by their mother, who encouraged the Goddard children to study Latin, ancient history, and classic literature. As a young girl, Mary Katharine realized that knowledge made her powerful."
And something more: In the interview of Dow and Ella on John Schu's Watch. Connect. Read. Dow shares more about this inspiring and beautifully illustrated book: "I am grateful for talented authors like Ella. Her meticulous research shines a light on Mary Katharine's life and accomplishments. I am also grateful for our editor Christy Ottaviano (Christy Ottaviano Books), who champions so many stories of influential and brave women like Mary Katharine."
And I agree! I too am grateful for the wonderful Christy Ottaviano.Christy was the editor of the children's picture book biography that Dow and I did together, MAYA LIN: Artist - Architect of Light and Lines, which shares the story of another inspiring and influential woman.