Picture book spotlights independent women at war

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

40 pages

16.99

The title Independent Dames might make you think Laurie Halse Anderson’s latest nonfiction picture book tells a contemporary feminist tale. But images by Matt Falkner make it readily apparent this book reflects the historical feminist spirit of women who picked up guns and banners to fight for the colonies during the American Revolution. In some cases, these women hid their gender underneath uniforms and men’s clothing. Other times, they fought in skirts, taking the place of injured and dead husbands and sons. In every case, the women took a stand to protect their homes, families and communities from tyranny. They fought for independence and freedom from British control. Without a history or knowledge of feminist principles, these women demonstrated true feminist action through their actions. In doing so they left a powerful and courageous legacy for today’s women and girls. As a School Library Journal review points out,  “Whether women were disguising themselves as men in order to be soldiers, raising money for suffering soldiers, sewing and knitting for the troops, or participating in protests or a boycott of British goods, their actions were significant.”

            Because their actions have often been consigned minimal mention in history and social studies books, it’s hard to say if these women have been cited as examples for including and developing more responsible roles for women in the contemporary armed forces. But the book makes it abundantly clear that women have always – even if unofficially – taken an active stance in times of war.

            This book may prove a welcome addition to grade school classrooms, offering all students insight into the motivation to fight for what we believe is good and just and right. But Anderson’s thorough research and engaging style as she takes readers through stories of people like Margaret Corbin who fired her dead husband’s canon until she herself was shot or Prudence Wright and Sarah Shattuck who guarded their village while their men fought at Concord and Lexington, even capturing a British spy, will make this a popular read. These are stories that may influence young girls to recognize the courage it takes to stand up against tyranny and to protect themselves, their communities, families and their homes.