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
