In the Shadows of the American Revolution: Felicitas de Gálvez
The first in a series of graphic novels about the often forgotten protagonists in the stories that forged a nation.
The Story
History taught you about George Washington and Paul Revere. But what about the heroes hidden in the shadows? When Camila, a 13-year-old living in Florida stumbles upon the story of Felicitas de Gálvez, she realizes the American Revolution was bigger than she ever imagined. Featuring historically accurate illustrations, Laura Hill Kahn brings 18th-century Louisiana to life for a new generation of history seekers.
Grounded in Real History
The Shot Heard Round the World
The Battles of Lexington and Concord mark the beginning of armed conflict between the colonies and Britain.
The Declaration of Independence
Fifty-six delegates sign one of history's most important documents, declaring the colonies free from British rule.
Allies make all the Difference
The conflict is truly global — Spain, France, and other European powers enter the fight, turning a colonial rebellion into a war that reshapes the entire Atlantic world.
Britain moves South
As the war drags on longer than the British anticipated, they turn their attention to the southern colonies.
Why Read Historical Shadows?
Real Events, Real People
Every historical figure and event in the story is real. Readers finish each chapter knowing more about actual history.
Graphic Novel Format
Vivid illustrated panels make history accessible and exciting for reluctant readers and history lovers alike.
Ages 8 and Up
Written and illustrated for young readers, but rich enough for adults who love history and adventure.
Research Notes Included
The book contains further reading suggestions an references.
"The past is full of voices waiting to be heard."
Laura Hill Kahn is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution whose work brings overlooked voices from the past to the page. She studied abroad in Spain during her undergraduate days — but it wasn't until years later that she discovered Spain's pivotal role in the American Revolution, a chapter of history her education had never mentioned.
Her debut graphic novel grew out of a simple question: whose stories aren't being told? The answer led her to Felicitas de Gálvez and the Spanish Gulf Coast — a world of spies, soldiers, and ordinary people whose courage helped shape a nation.
Laura lives in Virginia with her family. She invites the young and young at heart to dig deeper into the history they thought they knew.
Ready to Begin?
Find Historical Shadows at major book retailers and start your journey into 1776.