I'm Deborah Sampson: A Soldier in the War of the Revolution

by Patricia Clapp

Relates the experiences of the woman who disguised herself as a man in order to enlist and fight in the American Revolution.

Genres: Historical Fiction, 18th Century, Historical, Young Adult, American Revolutionary War

176 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1977

About the author

Patricia Clapp was born in Boston and attended the Columbia University School of Journalism. Her first novel, Constance: A Story of Early Plymouth, was a runner-up for the 1969 National Book Award for Children's Literature. Her other books include, I'm Deborah Sampson, King of the Dollhouse, Dr. Elizabeth, and Jane-Emily. She also authored many plays for children.

Reviews

[CLM · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read about a Massachusetts heroine!

My review:
https://perfectretort.blogspot.com/20...

[Hannah Bottenberg Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was in late elementary school and early middle school I was obsessed with the American Revolution and Deborah Sam(p)son was pretty much my ultimate hero. Needless to say this was my favorite book back then. My 5th grade teacher had it in his class room and when I moved to 6th grade my middle school's library had a copy. I'm not even sure how many times I read it but it was many. Not to mention I was very ADHD back then so for any book to hold my attention like this one did was a grand accomplishment.

the last I checked this book was no longer in print but I really wish that it was. It is a wonderful book that inspired me as a young girl to not be afraid of pursuing a dream. If you can manage to get a copy of this book I totally recommend it to anyone whether they're a middle grade student or not!

[Cinnamon · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the boy that Deborah Sampson was going to marry was killed during the American Revolution, she needed a direction in her life. She felt like she didn't have a home or a cause to turn to. So, she decided to pick up the cause that Robbie died fighting for, the freedom of the colonies. Deborah Sampson dressed as man, became Robert Shurieff, and joined the Continental Army, where she fought and was wounded in more than one battle. Fiction story based on real life events.

[Rosalind Fisher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hoping for more from this book. The story is based on real events and, although finely written and presented, appears to be rather constrained by them than inspired. It is presented as Deborah Sampson relating her tale and is an honest account such as she might well have given, bar a few modern flourishes, and it is perhaps because of this that the story failed to grab me and involve me in any meaningful way. I found myself reading dutifully what should have been a story engendering great passion and pain, and it felt like only half the book was there: just an outline, though a very fine one. However, I note that quite a few of the reviewers here really loved and were inspired by this book, so that is excellent.

[Graham Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crazy. Makes me want to read some nonfic about her.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this as a kid. Historical fiction based on the real-life Deborah Sampson, who fought in the Revolutionary War after her fiancé was killed

[Bekka · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the greatest book I've ever read, but interesting. It makes me want to see the real story of Deborah, and what her life was like. This seemed definitely whitewashed for a younger audience. The cover is atrocious! This very pretty girl dressed up in a soldiers hat - no way would she have ever passed! I've long been fascinated by the stories of women disguising themselves as men to fight in wars, I just wish this particular version had been told a bit better.

[Yasmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The best thing about Patricia Clapp's books is they have a little bit of romance in them...perfect for that 5th grade girl!

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book as a child. How many times did I check it out from the Loving Branch of the A2 library?!?!?

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not first reading: [March/April] 1997 With (above)