Author Visit with Jennifer Robin Barr

Join us for a lively discussion with author Jennifer Robin Barr and learn the real story behind her historical fiction book, THUNDER AND MERCY.

Click here to pre-order your copy of THUNDER AND MERCY directly from Main Point Books! Note in the comments if you will pick up the book at the library during the event.

THUNDER AND MERCY: The Story Behind the Story
THUNDER AND MERCY (Astra Publishing, July 2026) is a historical fiction mystery set in Philadelphia’s Mount Pleasant, a wedding gift from Benedict Arnold to his bride Peggy Shippen, and involves a shadowy prowler, a hidden ring, and mysterious spies. This presentation will discuss the real history behind THUNDER AND MERCY, both from the 1770s and 1970s, using images and primary sources to bring the past to life. It is both a history lesson and a storytelling experience that opens the door to key events, people, and details that directly inspired the narrative.

Q&A and book signing to follow the talk!

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Jennifer Robin Barr is a middle-grade historical fiction author from the Philadelphia-area. Her debut novel, GOODBYE, MR. SPALDING (Astra Publishing, 2019), was named a 2019 Top-10 Sports Books for Youth by the American Library Association. Her second novel, THUNDER AND MERCY (Astra Publishing, July 2026) has been named as a Junior Library Guild selection and received a starred review from School Library Journal. When she’s not writing, Jennifer spends her days with her family and advising students at a local college. Find her on Instagram @JenniferRBarr and www.JenniferRobinBarr.com.