THE CLOTHESLINE CODE

What if a simple clothesline could change the course of history?

Eleven-year-old Maggie feels powerless. British soldiers march past her house. Her family whispers about danger. Everyone tells her to keep her head down and survive. But Maggie wants to do something that matters-she just doesn't know how.

Then she notices something strange about her neighbor's laundry line.

Mrs. Strong hangs her washing in careful patterns: a black petticoat here, white handkerchiefs there. It looks ordinary... but Maggie can't shake the feeling that it means something more. When she discovers the truth-that quiet, gentle Mrs. Strong is actually a spy for George Washington-Maggie realizes that the bravest heroes don't always carry muskets or shout from rooftops.

Sometimes they just hang laundry in the wind.

Based on the TRUE story of Anna Strong and the Culper Spy Ring, THE CLOTHESLINE CODE brings history to life through the eyes of a curious, determined girl who learns that courage comes in many forms-and that even kids can make a difference when they pay attention to the world around them.

✓ Historical adventure with real heroes
✓ Strong female characters who think their way through problems
✓ Spy stories with codes and secrets
✓ American history that feels exciting, not boring
✓ Books that show different kinds of bravery

EDUCATIONAL WITHOUT BEING PREACHY
Kids learn about the Revolutionary War, spy networks, and the often-forgotten contributions of women and ordinary people-all while enjoying a page-turning adventure.

AGE-APPROPRIATE TENSION
The stakes are real (this IS a war, after all), but the story focuses on intelligence, observation, and courage rather than violence. Perfect for middle-grade readers ready for historical fiction with depth.

VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS

• Sometimes the most important work happens quietly
• You don't have to be loud to be brave
• Young people CAN make a difference
• Keeping secrets can be an act of courage

ENGAGING EXTRAS
Complete with historical notes, code-breaking activities, discussion questions, and a charming map illustration, this book bridges the gap between entertainment and education.

"Finally, a historical fiction book my daughter couldn't put down! She's already asking if there are more books in the series."

"As a teacher, I love finding books that make history come alive. The Clothesline Code does exactly that."

"My son learned more about the Revolutionary War from this book than from his entire social studies unit!"

Anna Strong really existed. She really used her clothesline to send coded signals during the Revolutionary War. And her work with the Culper Spy Ring really did help America win independence-though her name stayed secret for almost 200 years.

This book imagines what might have happened if a curious young girl discovered her secret... and what that girl might have learned about courage, trust, and the power of paying attention.

Perfect for: • Independent readers ages 9-12 • Fans of historical fiction series • Classroom read-alouds and book clubs • Kids who love mysteries, codes, and smart heroines • Anyone who thinks history is boring (this will change their mind!)

The laundry is hung. The signal is sent. The adventure begins now.