Mount Vernon’s Magnificent Menagerie

By Linda Burgess. Illustrated by Maggie Dunlap. ISBN 978-0-931917-31-8. Copyright 2012. Hardcover with 48 pages including 25 colorful, high-gloss spot varnish illustrations. Published by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association. Available exclusively from the Shops at Mount Vernon.

When Vulcan, George Washington’s favorite foxhound, hears a mysterious visitor is expected at a big Mount Vernon party that night, he heads out to hunt down clues to the guest’s identity. As the excitement mounts, Vulcan gets help piecing the mystery together from canines Gunner, Pilot, Sweet Lips, Captain, and Madam Moose, as well as donkeys King of Malta and Royal Gift, plus assorted other unusually named four-legged and feathered friends. All of the characters in this well-researched book really were a part of life at Mount Vernon in George Washington’s time.
“This charming book, created by a mother and daughter team, is sure to make you smile and to pique your curiosity about early American history. From cover to cover, you’ll be enchanted by Maggie Dunlap’s bouncy and beguiling illustrations. And Linda Burgess’s story – told from the viewpoint of the animals at George Washington’s Mount Vernon – is fresh, intriguing, enlightening, and funny-bone-tickling funny. After reading it, you’ll want to visit Washington’s home, and then read the book again!” says Valerie Tripp, author of many books in the American Girl series.
For young readers age 4 through 10.

This book is from the recommendedGeorge Washington Reading Pin Resource Listfor Scouts. By successfully reading one or more of the books on the list about the life of George Washington, your Scouts can earn a special George Washington Reading Pin.