Molly, by Golly! The Legend of Molly Williams, America's First Female Firefighter

This legendary tale introduces young readers to Molly Williams, an African American cook for New York City's Fire Company 11, who is considered to be the first known female firefighter in U.S. history. One winter day in 1818, when many of the firefighting volunteers are sick with influenza and a small wooden house is ablaze, Molly jumps into action and helps stop the blaze, proudly earning the nickname Volunteer Number 11. Relying on historic records and pictures and working closely with firefighting experts, Dianne Ochiltree and artist Kathleen Kemly not only bring this spunky and little-known heroine to life but also show how fires were fought in early America.

Dianne Ochiltree is the author of several award-winning picture books for the very young, including Ten Monkey Jamboree, Sixteen Runaway Pumpkins (Margaret K. McElderry Books) and Lull-a-bye, Little One (G.P. Putnam's Sons). Dianne lives in Sarasota, Florida, with her family and pets in a house by the bay. You can visit her at ochiltreebooks.com.

Kathleen Kemly's research for Molly, By Golly included a trip to the New York City Fire Museum. While in New York she was able to imagine Molly's life there and what the city was like many years ago. Kathleen illustrated You Can't Do That, Amelia! for Calkins Creek and A Fishing Surprise for Cooper Square Publishing, among others. Kathleen lives in Seattle and can be reached at kathleenkemly.com.