This inspiring story of Deborah Sampson is told beautifully with intricate, rich language; reading this script made me feel as though I was in the woods with this revolutionary hero. Keel shows this historical figure as the cunning, gritty, warrior she really was. When most of the Revolution is told from the perspective of male figures, being introduced to this female Revolutionist was refreshing and validating; every theater girl/woman should read this! The flexible style of storytelling allows for a variety of design, directing, and casting choices, perfect for any theater.

Setting aside the fascinating true story of Deborah Sampson, Keel manages to breathe life into her as a theatrical creation--part storyteller, narrator, emcee, and thematic guide--in a graceful and complex way. Equal parts relevant, humorous, insightful and moving, this play finally transcends its origins as simply a biographical document and becomes both an affirmation of present-day challenges facing any number of marginalized voices and a call to keep punching.