Betsy Ross

Children's Literature - Children's Literature

Betsy Ross was a woman worth knowing even if she hadn't been involved with designing the American flag. Although that fact has never been fully substantiated, there is no doubt that she did make flags for the patriots in her upholstery shop. Born into a Quaker family, Betsy was read out of the faith when she married Anglican John Ross. He was also a patriot and unfortunately died while defending ammunition stores. Betsy suffered through hard times during the Revolutionary War and eventually met and married John Ashburn, a patriot privateer who died in a British prison. She married a third time, raised a large family, and continued to support herself and her family through her upholstery business and died at the age of eighty-four. 2000, Chelsea House, Ages 8 up, $16.95 and $8.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6-These books offer a good combination of concise text and full-color illustrations that seem a perfect fit for this age group. Lutz describes her subject's boyhood in Scotland when, as a 13-year-old, he set out to sea, eventually settling in America, and concludes with Jones's attempt to fight for the Russian navy and his death at age 45. Betsy Ross receives equal attention from Miller, who traces her life from Quaker seamstress to the creator of the most recognized symbol of the new nation. She admits that Ross's claim to fame is questioned by some but concludes that whatever the truth, common people helped out in the War for Independence and made a difference. Both books have lists for further reading, but no sources are cited. Additional titles for biography sections.-Carol Fazioli, formerly at The Brearley School, New York City Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|