Can a fashion doll from England find friendship and happiness in colonial America?
When a beautiful doll, Polly Sumner, lands in Boston on a ship loaded with tea, she discovers growing discontent among the colonists over English taxes. One night, she has a front row seat for a parade of colonists, disguised as Mohawk Indians, heading to the docks to dump the tea.
Trouble was brewing! Soon, war breaks out, and Polly struggles to understand why and how that will affect her. As she watches fierce battles unfold, she learns all about the meanings of liberty and patriotism. Swept up in events that change the course of history, she becomes a part of that history herself, in this unique tale of friendship and adventure.
This is the story of Polly Sumner, a real doll, that will capture the heart and imagination of any child, and acquaint the young reader with important Revolutionary history, and the founding ideals of liberty and justice for all.
Polly Sumner: Witness to the Boston Tea Party, by Richard C. Wiggin, illustrated by Keith Favazza
Publisher: Lawley Enterprises LLC (April 18, 2023)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1958302200 (hardcover)
978-1958302224 (paperback)
978-1958302217 (ebook)
Pages: 52
Dimensions: 7 x 0.25 x 10 inches
Recommended Reading Level: An early-reader chapter book for ages 7-12
Recommended Grade Level: Grades 2-6. Meets Common Core and most state curriculum
standards for elementary grades.
BISAC Categories:
– Juvenile Fiction | Historical | United States – Colonial & Revolutionary Periods
– Juvenile Fiction | Historical | Military & Wars
– Juvenile Fiction | Toys, Dolls & Puppets
Polly Sumner: Witness to the Boston Tea Party is available at your local independent bookstore,
or historic site, or from most online booksellers.
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“Polly Sumner has seen many fascinating events, and has a great story to tell!”
— Robert J. Allison, Professor of History at Suffolk University; author of The Boston Tea Party
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“Polly Sumner: Witness to The Boston Tea Party by Richard C. Wiggin is an engaging and informative read. This riveting historical account transports readers back in time as the key events that led to America’s independence unfold. These pivotal moments in history are told from the perspective of Polly Sumner, a doll who traveled on a ship from Britain bringing tea to the colonists in Boston, Massachusetts. The colonists were unhappy about being taxed with the approval of King George and were trying to establish their independence from Britain. This led to the Boston Tea Party and other significant moments that ultimately resulted in America’s independence. Seeing these important events through Polly’s eyes makes it fun and accessible for children to learn about history. Rich and detailed illustrations by Keith Favazza provide a captivating visual account of the colonial era. A useful and interesting timeline of events and a glossary of terms are also included.
— Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Readers’ Favorite
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“An engaging story that kids will enjoy and connect with.”
— Vivian Kirkfield, author of Sweet Dreams, Sarah: From Slavery to Inventor and Pippa’s Passover Plate
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“From the first chapter, “Journey to America,” to the last chapter, “Through the Years,” the book will reintroduce you to the Boston Tea Party, which took place 250 years ago this year, as well as to the events surrounding it. “Readers’ Favorite recently gave this book five stars. This reviewer gives it that, plus more. Pour yourself a cup of tea, and get to know Polly Sumner, the English fashion doll with a stirring story to share.”
— Laurie McGill, Senior Editor, Antique Doll Collector magazine
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“A very fun book of Polly’s adventures, being part of the revolutionary story!”
— Josiah George, Assistant Creative and Production Manager, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
Excerpts from the Judges Critiques for the IBPA Ben Franklin Award:
“Polly Sumner: Witness to the Boston Tea Party” by Richard C. Wiggin is a delightful addition to the Young Reader Fiction category, catering to ages 8-12. The engaging illustrations, by Keith Favazza, specifically designed for younger readers, contribute to the book’s overall appeal. The well-written narrative, accompanied by a thoughtful timeline and glossary, ensures that young readers not only enjoy the story but also have access to helpful resources. Wiggin’s commendable research is evident in the accurate portrayal of historical events, adding an educational dimension to the narrative.
“Polly Sumner: Witness to the Boston Tea Party” stands out as an educational and entertaining read, making it an excellent resource for classrooms exploring early American history. . . this book has the potential to captivate young readers and contribute meaningfully to their learning experience.
This is a beautiful book with an elegantly illustrated cover with a wonderful tale of how America came to be from a doll’s point of view. . . Using the doll as a tool to tell the story of America’s journey to become a nation is quite clever, unique and wonderfully imaginative.
[The] illustrations are not only beautiful but also consistently produced throughout the interior, seamlessly integrating with the text to enhance the story.The illustrations are most excellently done in gray, black and white – they add a kind of color and interest.
A child reading this book can really enjoy the story . . . as they fall in love with the doll who became an American. They can enjoy reading and all the wonder of the places it takes them.
