Sybil's Night Ride
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The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that a young girl saves the day in this true Revolutionary War story.
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Strong and AWESOME!
What's the story?
Redcoat spies and thieves lurk everywhere; the British are burning New York! Sixteen-year-old Sybil Ludington races against time to muster the patriots to action in this true Revolutionary War story. She and her colt, Star, brave dangerous elements to sound the alarm. Because of Sybil's courage on that stormy night, four hundred militiamen push back the Redcoats.
Is it any good?
Young readers will cuddle close and hold their breath, and older children will read faster as Sybil braves the dangers to warn the patriots. Period vocabulary terms such as breeches, muskets, and grist mill help create the 18th-century atmosphere, and readers will appreciate the author's notes and archival map.
Although the childlike renderings may appeal to some, the characters and settings appear stiff and conjure the feel of stylized colonial paintings. Kids will love the vivid verbs and sense of action. Young girls, especially, will appreciate this little-known event in American history. During a time of distrust, and with danger lurking at every turn in the road, a young girl fights her fears to help her family and her nation.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about Sybil's bravery. Paul Revere is well known for his similar ride; why is Sybil less well known? Do you think you would have been able to do what she did?
Book details
- Author: Karen B. Winnick
- Illustrator: Karen B. Winnick
- Genre: Historical Fiction
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Boyds Mills Press
- Publication date: January 1, 2000
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 7
- Number of pages: 30
- Last updated: July 12, 2017
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