Hudson Berry Chapter, NSDAR plans book event April 18 for author and her time-traveling pup

Children’s author Karen Petit will share the story of her American Revolutionary War book, “Celebrate America! The People Declare Independence,” on Saturday, April 18, at the First Baptist Church in Honea Path.

The event, which is free and open to children and adults, will be held from 10 a.m. – noon at the church, located at 100 S. Main St. It is sponsored by the Hudson Berry Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, of Anderson.

She will be accompanied by the book’s main character — Louie, a charming Bichon Frisé, who time travels from modern-day America to colonial-era Philadelphia in the days leading up to the announcement of the Declaration of Independence.

When Petit was approached with the idea of writing a Revolutionary War-themed story for young readers, it felt like a natural fit — almost.

An established author with 10 published children’s books, Petit is known for her creative stories featuring her beloved dogs. But this time, she saw an opportunity to spotlight Louie.

“A 15-pound tornado of energy and mischief, Louie is the bad boy of the Bichons. I couldn’t imagine how he could be in a book on American history,” Petit said. “But the more I thought about the book, it seemed 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 period, 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.

Petit’s book, “Celebrate America: The People Declare Independence,” is the first book in a trilogy for children about the American Revolution.

Illustrated by 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.

Petit, Vice Regent of the Issaqueena Chapter, NSDAR in Greenwood, said the book is a way to bring history to life for young children.

“Through this series, I hope to spark children’s interest in learning more about our nation’s Revolutionary War history as we celebrate America 250! and helping them understand why our nation has the liberties and freedoms that we cherish today,” she said.

“Children love animals and can relate to them. Having the story told through Louie’s eyes is a way for children and their parents, grandparents or teachers to read a book together and talk about history,” Petit said. “This might inspire them to visit historic sites in their area and read more books about our nation’s important history. Louie doesn’t always travel to book events with me. It is a treat to have Louie share this day with readers.”

The Hudson Berry Chapter will provide patriotic coloring sheets for children at the event, which will include the book signing and author talk.