Book signing Aug. 2 features new children’s book on Declaration of Independence

Children’s author Karen Petit will be at M. Judson Booksellers in Greenville on Saturday, Aug. 2, a pivotal date as the nation marks the 249th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The date is significant because Petit is the author of a new children’s book, “Celebrate America! The People Declare Independence,” which focuses on the announcement of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

The book signing will be from 10 a.m. – noon at the bookstore, located at 130 South Main St., Greenville.

“Most people associate the Declaration of Independence with July 4,” said Petit, who was approached with the idea of writing a Revolutionary War-themed story for young readers in 2022. “However, the document wasn’t officially signed until nearly a month later, and that is when we see the beautiful signatures of the 56 signers of the official copy proclaiming our independence.”

Petit, an established author with more than 10 children’s books, is known for her creative stories featuring her beloved dogs. But this time, she saw an opportunity to spotlight a different furry companion: her Bichon Frisé, Louie.

“A 15-pound tornado of energy and mischief, Louie is the bad boy of the Bichons,” Petit said. “I couldn’t imagine him in a story that has such amazing history. But the more I thought about the book, it seemed likely that Louie — who creates so much chaos at home — might be the perfect fit for the chaos of war.”

Incorporating Louie into a story set during the American Revolution, however, brought new challenges. Bichons weren’t found in America during that time, so Petit had to stretch her imagination — while staying historically accurate — to find a way to bring Louie into the narrative in a meaningful and believable way.

The result was a fresh, engaging tale that introduces young readers to history through a charming and unexpected lens.
Alongside Petit’s carefully researched historical narrative, is the story of Louie, an adorable white Bichon Frisé, who time travels through a portal and lands in the midst of a harsh war between Great Britain and the American colonies fighting for independence.

Illustrated by Greenwood artist Bonner Abercrombie, the book features vibrant, historically accurate artwork that complements Petit’s storytelling, adding visual depth and charm to a narrative that resonates with readers of all ages.

The book is the first in a trilogy for young readers. The second book, “Celebrate America! The Revolutionary War Years,” will be published in 2026.

The response from the South Carolina Daughters of the American Revolution has been overwhelmingly positive, with chapters already using the book in activities leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

Petit, a member of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) and Vice Regent of the Issaqueena Chapter, in Greenwood, saw the book as a way to bring history to life for young children while also honoring veterans in the South Carolina National Guard. She is donating a portion of the sales from her books to the SCDAR Regent Alice Caskey’s special project supporting the Guard.

For more information, check out the Facebook page, Celebrate America with Louie, or contact Petit at [email protected].