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

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

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Author(s)

Karen Blumenthal

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Publisher

Roaring Book Press

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

February 18, 2025

ISBN

978-1626723115

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A bold picture book biography about Mary Katharine Goddard, the only woman whose name is printed on the Declaration of Independence, by award-winning authors Karen Blumenthal and Jen McCartney, and illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley.

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.

Follow Mary's revolutionary journey in this captivating picture book biography perfect for fans of I DISSENT and COUNTING ON KATHERINE.

Editor review

1 review

Inspiring Picture Book Biography

March 09, 2025 (Updated: June 04, 2026)

Overall rating

5.0

Writing Style

5.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

Learning Value

5.0

Revolutionary Mary: The True Story of One Woman, The Declaration of Independence, and America's Fight for Freedom is a picture book biography that teaches readers the importance of Mary Katharine Goddard to colonial times.

Mary's brother ran a printing press and enlisted the help of his sister, who was more than capable of running the shop on her own. She even printed news of the American Revolution to pass out and drum up support for the cause. Mary's biggest contribution was printing the Declaration of Independence, and she is the only woman to have her name on this important document.

What I Liked: Mary's story is incredibly brave and inspiring. I loved learning about her pivotal role in American history. Illustrator Elizabeth Baddeley adds to the story with her beautiful illustrations. I appreciate when a book adds a lot more detailed information at the end of the book and this book did not disappoint. It gave us information on not only Mary Catherine Goddard but also what a printing press looked like in colonial times.

Revolutionary Mary is an inspiring picture book biography that readers who love American history will enjoy.