The British are coming. This "biography of a single day" captures the burning of the White House by the British during the War of 1812 from the viewpoint of the people who were there, including First Lady Dolley Madison, a British officer, and a nine-year-old slave. In the early hours before dawn, a cry went out that the British were advancing on Washington, D.C. America was two years into another war—The War of 1812. By nightfall on the 24th, British soldiers were setting fire to D.C., starting with the Navy Yard, then the Capitol and the White House, where First Lady Dolley Madison still kept watch. Jane Sutcliffe draws upon first-person accounts to recreate a compelling chronology of the events of August 24, 1814.
Jane Sutcliffe Books
This author crafts engaging nonfiction for young readers, bringing a passion for learning and libraries directly to school communities. Their work focuses on making factual information accessible and exciting, encouraging curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world. With a clear and enthusiastic voice, they demystify complex topics for children. The author's commitment to literacy and shared discovery shines through in every page.






Jesse Owens
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The biography chronicles Jesse Owens' journey from his humble beginnings in Alabama to becoming a track-and-field legend. It highlights his family's relocation to Cleveland and explores his remarkable athletic achievements, culminating in his historic four gold medals at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. The narrative emphasizes Owens' resilience and the significance of his accomplishments in the context of racial tensions and the global stage of the Olympics.
Michelangelo saw something—someone—special in the stone.No one wanted the “giant.” The hulking block of marble lay in the work yard, rained on, hacked at, and abandoned—until a young Michelangelo saw his David in it.Night and day, Michelangelo worked in secret, lovingly coaxing statue out of the stone. Its majesty endures even today.This is the story of how a neglected, discarded stone became a masterpiece for all time. It is also a story of how humans see themselves reflected in art.Back matter includes further information about David and a selected bibliography
Will's Words
- 40 pages
- 2 hours of reading
When Jane Sutcliffe sets out to write a book about William Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre, in her own words, she runs into a problem: Will's words keep popping up all over the place! What's an author to do? After all, Will is responsible for such familiar phrases as "what's done is done" and "too much of a good thing." He even helped turn "household words" into household words. But, Jane embraces her dilemma, writing about Shakespeare, his plays, and his famous phrases with glee. After all, what better words are there to use to write about the greatest writer in the English language than his very own? As readers will discover, "the long and the short of it" is this: Will changed the English language forever. Backmatter includes an author’s note, a bibliography, and a timeline.
When Jane Sutcliffe sets out to write a book about William Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre, in her own words, she runs into a problem: Will's words keep popping up all over the place! What's an author to do? After all, Will is responsible for such familiar phrases as "what's done is done" and "too much of a good thing." He even helped turn "household words" into household words. But, Jane embraces her dilemma, writing about Shakespeare, his plays, and his famous phrases with glee. After all, what better words are there to use to write about the greatest writer in the English language than his very own? As readers will discover, "the long and the short of it" is this: Will changed the English language forever. Backmatter includes an author’s note, a bibliography, and a timeline.
The White House Is Burning: August 24, 1814
- 128 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Set against the backdrop of the American Revolution, the narrative delves into the tensions and struggles faced by colonists as they navigate the impending conflict with British forces. It explores themes of loyalty, freedom, and the quest for independence, showcasing the diverse perspectives of individuals caught in the turmoil. Through vivid characters and historical events, the story captures the spirit of a nation on the brink of transformation, highlighting the sacrifices and resilience of those fighting for their beliefs.
Disasters in History: A Graphic Novel Collection
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
"True-life tragedies jump off the page in this dynamic collection of graphic novels. From the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor to the Great Chicago Fire and the space shuttle Challenger explosion, step back in timeto experience some of the worst disasters in history. With eight stories in all, this riveting collection helps readers understand how the most devastating events in history happened and provides valuable perspectives on the lessons that rose from the ashes of despair"--
Chester Nimitz and the Sea
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A very brief look at the life and career of the famous admiral.
Focusing on her remarkable athletic prowess, the book chronicles Babe Didrikson's journey from a young girl overcoming obstacles to becoming one of the greatest female athletes of the 20th century. It highlights her extraordinary achievements, including winning two gold medals and one silver at the 1932 Olympics, while showcasing her versatility across multiple sports. Her dedication and relentless training set her apart, making her an iconic figure in sports history.