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.

In a time when hope seems futile, this book tells stories of regular every day people who don’t feel mighty but did it anyway. It will inspire you to do just the next right thing no matter how small you feel like it is. This book made me laugh, cry and fist pump because I was so happy to hear these uplifting stories. Truly such a masterpiece. You can’t go wrong with anything Sharon McMahon does-love love love!

The Small and the Mighty is such a well written book, giving insight into incredible people who made a difference in American history, in the least boring way possible! Sharon is a master at her craft, the research in this book is incredibly thorough, and the writing is so enjoyable to read. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a quality, non-fluffy yet non-stuffy book to curl up with.

Sharon is a national treasure! Her writing style, knowledge, humor and actual facts make this book a must read for everyone! You will laugh, you will cry and you will learn things that are amazing. This should be required reading in all schools. This would make an incredible gift for someone you love. Don’t wait- read this book and enjoy every page! Thankful to have found the BEST book of the year! 🙏🏼♥️

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!

Sharon’s voice effortlessly weaves together history and the broad impact a single life can have while making it accessible for every reader. She uses her voice to help remind us that doing the next needed thing, focusing on the individuals in our neighborhoods and communities, is oftentimes the best way to create overarching change. Lastly, it’s a great reminder that sometimes change takes a long time, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth working towards. Beautifully written, engaging from the start, I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

Long time educator, Sharon McMahon, highlights the stories of Americans missed by mainstream history textbooks to remind us that seemingly ordinary lives are anything but. Throughout the book, McMahon infuses humanity with American history and shows readers that people are often complicated, but that doesn’t make those facts any less true. Part of what draws people to McMahon online is what makes this book great: her conversational style, orientation to the facts, and accessible approach. She makes history interesting and relatable in a way that feels connected to you and to today—this is not the history class of the past. This is more like when your parent hides vegetables in your favorite dish without you knowing, and you end up loving it. THE SMALL AND THE MIGHTY is beautiful in the way that it infuses hope into our vision for our country and each of our place within it, encouraging all of us to do our part—however small—to make a difference. It also does this while not shying away from the ugliness that litters our past and walks alongside us in the present. I highly recommend this for everyone: history lovers, those who think history is dull, narrative nonfiction lovers, teachers, and folks in between.

You definitely don't have to live in the US to love this book! I've heard many reference having trouble with the book jumping around - this is definitely Sharon's unique style. I love learning about all the little interconnected details. I found if I thought of it like a "you'll never believe this" moment in a letter from a friend, it was really easy to follow!

This was so good. Very interesting. Very encouraging. Learned so much. Definitely not dry history but rather a page turner. I really enjoyed it!

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!

I truly enjoyed every chapter of this book so I also purchased the audiobook! Such an amazing premise; no one tells a story quite like Sharon!