Adventure Awaits! Young Readers Time-Travel to 1776 – With Help from One Curious Pup

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

Petit, an established author with more than 10 published 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. “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 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” officially launched in February during a Literary Luncheon hosted by Nancy Herritage, State Librarian of the South Carolina State Society Daughters of the American Revolution (SCDAR). Petit was also the featured speaker for the SCDAR’s “Books and Breakfast” program during the 129th State Conference in Columbia on March 22.

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 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 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 local 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 generously donated a portion of the proceeds from her book sales to State Regent Alice Caskey’s special project supporting the Guard.

Petit and Abercrombie have been invited to appear at several speaking engagements, including the Greenwood Museum (Saturday, April 12, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.), and Historic Cokesbury College (Sunday, April 13, 2-4 p.m.).

Community members will have the opportunity to meet the author and illustrator and purchase copies for their own collection. And if you’re lucky, you might even be greeted by Petit’s adorable Bichon, Louie, who just may accompany her!

— Submitted by Deb Crenshaw-Nygro, Issaqueena Chapter, Publicity Chair