This remarkable audio drama, nicely directed by Shari Rigby, features a large cast of actors including Alex Kendrick (Facing the Giants, Fireproof) as General George Washington. The setting of these podcasts is the American Revolution, and the series focuses on the women who played a huge role in its success, despite many of the names not being well known. It is inspired by a book written by Heather Blanton.
One of the outstanding features of this eight-episode audio series is the use of sound. Everything from footsteps, horses neighing, the sounds of muskets firing shots, and the voices are all spot on. The music is dramatic and a nice feature of the series, sometimes playing quietly in the background and sometimes rising in pitch to illustrate dramatic moments. Each episode ranges from approximately 21 to 25 minutes and the listener will undoubtedly know a lot more about the American Revolution and the outstanding women who made a difference after giving a listen to these striking episodes. The total runtime is a bit over three hours in length, but the shortened episodes leave it to the listeners to enjoy at their leisure.
Episode one, titled “Abigail Adams: Remember the Ladies,” tells of one of the courageous ladies of the American Revolution. Winter’s bite has been relentless and the seizure of Boston in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a focal point. General George Washington is mentioned and 52 women with a cause is alluded to. The historical background is given, with Rev. George Whitefield having died. His inspirational sermons inspired both men and women. It’s stated that men’s names may be carved into stone, but defiant women were also a big cog in the Revolution – they were prophets, poets, spies and helped free a nation from monarchy and fear. A young woman named Abigail Smith meets John Adams, who will become her future husband. Interestingly, her first impression of Adams is a man who is “insufferable and full of himself!” The mention of God and prayer is a part of the episode, and the great quote: “When fear chases you, remember who goes before you” (God). A nice rendition of “Amazing Grace” is played during the episode. And a few scriptures are used, including 2 Peter 3:8 and Psalm 90:4. The fight for independence will continue in episode two.
Episode two is titled “Prudence Wright: The Price of Liberty.” It opens in the spring of 1775. And a letter to John Adams from Abigail, who writes the children are being taught about the cause for freedom. Prudence Wright is examined, called a mother of sorrow but strong-willed. There is the mention of Joan of Arc, and how that even the smallest voices matter. People continue to rebel against the king of England’s tyranny. It’s stated the people will have no other king other than Jesus. It is Prudence Wright who writes that “We cannot let hate consume us,” as she tries to remind people to keep the proper perspective. Troops in Boston prepare to attack as the sound of gunshots sound out in the audio drama. Prudence tells her mother that America is an “ordained (appointed) nation.” America is now at war with the crown. During one skirmish British soldiers are told, “You have been bested by women,” who sent secret notes and helped the Revolution’s intelligence.
In episode three, titled “Penelope Baker: The Signature Rebellion,” the drama opens on March 5, 1770. Penelope writes that it is cold in Boston. The drama is rife with taxes, protests, boycotts and she is not sure “what God will bring.” Penelope has sacrificed her husband for many years as he is stationed in Europe, and she has lost eight of nine children. Some of the highlights of this episode includes the Boston Massacre trial and the British firing on American soldiers. In addition, Parliament passes the “tea act.” Another historical mention is the famous quote of “taxation without representation.” Historical names such as Samuel Adams and Paul Revere are mentioned. Great quotes continue as in previous episodes. For example, “I’d rather lose comfort than lose courage.” A prayer of “Bless our efforts, Lord,” is lifted up to God. And Penelope gives the governor a taste of his own medicine.
Episode four is titled, “Phillis Wheatley: The Ink of Freedom.” She was the first African American woman who was enslaved in the colonies to publish a book of poems. She lives in Boston and writes a poem which she sends to General George Washington. Phillis offers a prayer for a man’s loss of a loved one. It’s stated that her name in the Greek means to “grow strong, flourish and to be healthy.” She states she is a “free woman” now (from slavery), and no one can take that away from her. Paul Revere is mentioned as “riding” in this episode.
Phillis has been impacted by Rev. George Whitefield, and she says that “Jesus is an impartial God – regardless of class, race, or gender” – he accepts all people. George Washington writes Phillis to let him know he respects her work.
In episode five, “Sybil Ludington: And the Fires Burn and Burn,” the terror of the British and bare cupboards is examined. The tyranny has affected many colonial families. The mysterious Agent 355 was walking alone in New York City, and British soldiers stopped her and asked her if she was “a lady of the night.” They grabbed her but she escaped. In another part of New York, 16 year-old Sybil Ludington’s father, Col. Henry Ludington, spoke about shielding sons and brothers from the British oppression. Sybil winds up riding out to warn American soldiers against the impending arrival of British soldiers in Danbury, CT. Over four hundred men arrived to stand up to them because of Sybil’s warning. Sybil told her mother she had ridden over 40 miles to warn them, and her mother told her it was twice the midnight ride of Paul Revere. General George Washington spoke of what Sybil had done and encouraged others to do the same.
In episode six, “Two Kettles Together: I Fight for Thee, and Liberty,” a Native American Oneida woman named Tyonajanagen (also known as Two Kettles Together), fights in one of the bloodiest battles in the war. British morale was kicked in the teeth. A comment says it succinctly and well: “Liberty is a fierce and bloody business.” Abigail Adams is mentioned as working on her farm to keep things going, as she continues to wait for John’s return.
In episode seven, “Deborah Sampson: The Hidden Patriot,” Deborah disguises herself as a man to serve in the Continental Army. One character refers to Deborah as “scrappy.” During her combat experience she is shot in the leg. It’s stated she cared about the cause, and her actions obviously reflect that. She suffered a head injury as well. It is stated that much-needed medicine was delivered to the battlefield.
In the final episode, episode eight, titled “Agent 355: The Lady,” the mysterious Agent 355 must take an important message to Washington. She’s called a spy and her horse is named “Trinity.” Her father says she is a “lady” but was called “for more.” A gunshot is heard in this episode, and a weeping woman has lost her father – another casualty of war. The battle continues in 1780. It’s stated that the battle is not an easy road to go down, but it is a “righteous one.” Another memorable quote is that trials will come but will not last forever. Benedict Arnold’s plot is revealed in this episode. It is quoted: ”Freedom will outlive us and freedom was worth fighting for.” To this day the true identity of Agent 355 remains a mystery. The eventual success of the American Revolution relied heavily on women of great strength and courage.
Content Analysis: The immersive audio episodes have a definite Christian worldview, as various scriptures are mentioned, and prayers are offered up to Christ. This is definitely appropriate for ages 12 and above, and parents will want to consult our content listing as some children a bit under 12 would be okay to listen to it. It is a series of historical events regarding America, and shows that God can use men, women, former slaves, and whomever He wishes.
Think About It: Good discussion points would include discussing the American Revolution and how women played a role in its success. Tyranny and freedom are also good discussion topics.
The Dove Take: This powerful immersive audio drama series features gripping battles, drama, and the pursuit of freedom, is suitable for Ages 12+ and possibly a few years younger. It has earned our Dove Seal for Ages 12+.
