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The true story of Mary Bowser, a former slave-turned-spy who delivered key intelligence secrets during the Civil War. Readers uncover secrets using codes hidden in the book and spycraft materials included.
About the author
Each book in the SPY ON HISTORY series will be written by a different children's book writer under the pen name Enigma Alberti.
Summary
Your Mission: Find Mary’s secret diary using spycraft stools to uncover hidden codes!
It’s a true story of bravery: Mary Bowser was an African American spy for the Union who worked as a maid in the mansion of Confederate Jefferson Davis. From hair-raising close calls when she almost gets caught to how she uses her photographic memory to “steal” top secret documents. Mary’s story reads like a gripping novel.
It’s a mystery to solve: This hardcover library edition does not include any removable spy tools; a canny reader will unravel clues embedded in the text and illustrations to solve the book’s ultimate mystery and experience history in a whole new way.
Foreword
The true story of Mary Bowser, a former slave-turned-spy who delivered key intelligence secrets during the Civil War. Readers uncover secrets using codes hidden in the book and spycraft materials included.
Additional text
"A gripping story that offers a window into a pivotal time in U.S. history and puts a face to a little-known figure." — Publishers Weekly
"A thrilling read for lovers of history and mystery." — Shelf Awareness
"Structurally immersive, feminist friendly, beginner's chapter book focused on equality, female empowerment, freedom, and overcoming odds." — Bust.com
"This innovative interactive history book is sure to fascinate young would-be spies and detectives." — A Mighty Girl
"Alongside it being a great story, this will rise to the challenge to any curious-minded wannabe spies." — Black Girl Nerds
"Sometimes, a very special book comes along that allows your mind, and the kids' minds, to actively exercise and expand while tromping through a story and learning some history. Mary Bowser and the Civil War Spy Ring...is one such book." — Geek Dad
"This is a great introduction for Civil War buffs-in-the-making, young biography fans, and kids who are just learning to appreciate thrillers as a genre." — The Bookworm Sez
