Ochiltree, Dianne. Molly, By Golly!

Ochiltree, Dianne.  Molly, By Golly!      Boyd's Mills/Calkins Creek    2012  unp  $16.95  978-1-59078-721-2      elem  History       E-BNe    

This picture book tells the story of Molly Williams, the first female firefighter in America.  The African American cook donned firefighting gear when many of the other volunteers were sick with influenza and helped save the Van Horn family.  This book is a delight on so many levels, and intertwines both African American and women’s history.  The story reads well, both aloud and on the page.  The historical information is fascinating.  Readers will learn how difficult it was to put out a fire in New York City at the turn of the 19th century.  The warm watercolor illustrations, especially those of Molly herself, are lush and give a wonderful flavor to the story.  Appended at the end of the narrative are the author’s note about the research, and the answers to four frequently asked questions.  The bibliographical information provides supplemental information for both children and adults and includes places to visit in addition to books and websites.  It is an engaging and informative book, and a delight to share for both Black History Month and Women’s History Month.       

Women’s History, Black History                              --Pat Naismith