The Small and the Mighty: Twelve Unsung Americans Who Changed the Course of History, from the Founding to the Civil Rights Movement

“It is us, the small and the mighty, who make America great. Not again, but always.”
Sharon McMahon’s well-researched, vibrant, and compelling stories about twelve unsung Americans are written with the warmth, humor, passion, enthusiasm and clarity that earned her the moniker of “America’s favorite government teacher” from her social media followers.You will come away from this book with the realization that we each can make a difference. McMahon expertly weaves the stories of ordinary people rising above their life circumstances to do extraordinary things. We learn that they kept going by moving forward with courage and just doing the next right thing. McMahon’s superb storytelling inspires the reader with the conviction that a “more perfect Union” is possible if each of us, even if we feel small and ill-equipped, keeps doing the next right thing for our family, friends, and neighbors, where we are and with the resources available to us. As McMahon says, “It is us, the small and the mighty, who make America great. Not again, but always.”

History beyond the ordinary
This is one of the best books I have ever read. First of all it is highly researched and the author is an easy to read writer.This is the second and third and fourth ordinary folks behind the famous people we read about in history books. This is the hard workers from the suffrage movement and the segregated south and educators that we never knew about. This is about the hardest working and most dedicated and most forward thinking people you may have ever read about.

The perfect gift for anyone in your life
Everyone should read this book! You’ll learn so much about the history of the United States while hearing the stories of people who made true change in the nation. The Small and the Mighty is full of facts, humor, and emotion. So many history books are dull and hard to get through but this book is easy to read and you’ll not want to put it down! Do yourself a favor and get two copies- one to keep and one to give to a friend (I guarantee you’ll think of the perfect person to give a copy to while you’re reading!) This will be a go-to gift this holiday season, I’m sure! The audiobook version, read by the author, is also incredible. You’ll finish the book feeling like you’ve gained new friends in both the characters of the book and the author as well.

American’s Government Teacher Brings History to Life
Sharon McMahon’s The Small and Mighty is an absolute gem that breathes life into often overlooked snapshots of history, showing how seemingly minor events and individuals have had significant impacts on shaping the course of the United States. This book is a tribute to the average people who, through small but mighty actions, sparked a series of small actions that set off a chain reaction, ultimately leading to a major turning point in history.What truly sets this book apart is McMahon’s storytelling. She doesn’t just present historical facts; she brings you into the very scenes she’s describing, making you feel like you’re standing beside these figures, witnessing their contributions first-hand. Her vivid writing makes it easy to imagine the emotions and struggles of these individuals, even if you’re not a history buff.Her sense of humor and sassy tone at times (facts don’t need your approval to be a fact!) adds a layer of entertainment to the book. McMahon has mastered the art of throwing in random but fascinating tidbits that not only educate but also delight—like the unforgettable story involving Gouverneur Morris and a whale bone, which will forever change the way I think about whale bones!This book shows that it doesn’t take a revolutionary or a president to make a difference. Often, it’s the everyday people that have a profound effect on the nation’s direction. Through McMahon’s engaging and accessible writing style, you’re reminded that history is shaped by individuals who dared to act.Overall, The Small and Mighty is a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about the lesser-known aspects of U.S. history in a way that’s both informative and entertaining. The chapters a short, but all connect together, creating a story that could have been dry history lessons into an enjoyable and eye-opening experience. Highly recommend for everyone!

I loved the stories and the random facts throughout- but I did find it a bit hard to go back and forth between the people. You were submerged into a story and then there was a tangent… once I figured out that pattern, it was easier to follow. However, I love the hope and realization that you can do good in this world by just doing the “next best thing”.

If you are in need of a little dose of hope, please consider this book! I was looking forward to it so much and it still exceeded my expectations. I think it wouls make an excellent holiday gift this season!