The Patriots and the Pox

This nonfiction picture book for young readers ages 7-10 reveals the true story of General George Washington’s brave decision to inoculate his troops against smallpox during the American Revolution.

1775

General George Washington and his ragtag army are preparing to battle the powerful British military when the first attack comes— from an enemy that is invisible and deadly—smallpox! 

The disease wreaks havoc on his troops, foils his plans, and threatens to extinguish hope for independence. Desperate to get smallpox under control, Washington faces an agonizing decision—one that could either destroy his army or save it. He knew what he had to do, but how? The fate of a nation was on the line. Here is a new look at a founding father that uniquely shows why vaccines remain important today.Beth Anderson is the author of many books, including Revolutionary Prudence Wright, Hiding in Plain Sight, and The Patriots and the Pox. Her title Lizzie Demands a Seat won the Bank Street Flora Stieglitz Straus Award and the Norman A. Sugarman Children’s Biography Honor Award.

Ashley Yazdani is a picture book author and illustrator, nature lover, craftswoman, and art educator. She is the author and illustrator of A Green Place to Be and Cosmic Wonder, and the illustrator of Of Walden Pond by Lesa Cline-Ransome.