a
chicken
was there.
The A Chicken Was There books bring history to life through a clever and unexpected narrator—a chicken who just happens to be present at some of the most important moments in history. Each book contains twenty-five short, engaging stories that place readers alongside famous figures, pivotal events, and everyday people as history unfolds. From the American Revolution and the Wild West to world-changing inventors, World War II, and beloved holiday traditions, these stories offer a fresh, humorous, and memorable way to experience the past.
Written with both entertainment and accessibility in mind, the series is especially welcoming for reluctant readers, while still delighting history lovers of all ages. The short-story format removes the intimidation of long novels, making the books ideal for classrooms, family reading, or independent exploration. By blending accurate historical moments with warmth, curiosity, and a feathered point of view, A Chicken Was There proves that history doesn’t have to be dry—it can be fun, engaging, and unforgettable.
Praise for A Chicken was There
Meet the Author
Arlene Davenport is a former middle-school English teacher and lifelong lover of history, storytelling, and chickens. Growing up on an apricot ranch in Northern California sparked her early fascination with all things feathered, a passion that followed her through years of missionary work in Southeast Asia and a long teaching career in the United States. Inspired by the simple observation that chickens seemed to appear wherever history happened, Arlene created the A Chicken Was There series to bring the past to life through short, engaging stories that appeal to both avid and reluctant readers alike. Now retired, she continues to write with the heart of an educator, hoping to spark curiosity, laughter, and a love of reading in readers of all ages.
