I loved American history as a child, read a lot and especially treasured books like
Elizabeth George Speare’s The Witch of Blackbird Pond and Calico Captive, Ann Finlayson’s Rebecca’s War and Robert Lawson’s Mr. Revere and I. These beautifully written books captured my imagination while also teaching me about the time in which they were set.

But my biggest influence was Robert Lawson’s Mr. Revere and I. Lawson’s delightfully funny, fresh and well written book, narrated by Paul Revere’s horse, details his relationship with both his owner, the intrepid Revere, and the emerging democracy. It captures the personalities of these historically important people, humanizes them and brings them alive. This book shaped the narrative for this musical as I wanted children to connect to a family and to see how historical or economic events (like a tax, a boycott, a protest, a meeting) can affect how one lives daily (making economic choices like not using sugar or not having the preferred choice of tea, for example).

I liked creating fictional characters that mixed with historical figures like Francis
Rotch, Paul Revere and John Hancock. I wanted to show how women engaged with the events
of the time and that all people, young and old, of every race and position, played a part in helping
to create America. The importance of nonviolent protesting, like boycotting or even dumping
products that were unfairly priced, as an agent for progressive change, is central to this story. I
am indebted to Robert Lawson and his creative talents for inspiring this musical.

Our hope for this musical is that elementary school teachers will incorporate Lawson’s book as
part of their lesson. We also hope performing the play will encourage a deep appreciation for all
aspects of American history, the importance of democracy and why our freedoms and laws
should be valued, respected, defended and understood.

– Deborah Potee