Honest History Issue #32: Building America
No, this is not a picture book. Yes, this is a magazine. My list, my rules?
This was a really awesome visual way to explore the founding of our country with my kids and I highly recommend getting a copy of it.
Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Shawn Harris
Probably my favorite new-to-us discovery from the past year. Eggers takes the Statue of Liberty's right foot — which, it turns out, is mid-stride — and uses it to tell a story about what America is supposed to be: a country that does not stand still, that is always walking toward someone, that is, by design, in motion. I am in awe of his artistry and ability to turn educational content into true entertainment. A genuine masterpiece for kids.
We Came to America by Faith Ringgold
Ringgold's vivid, quilted-feeling art carries this short, powerful book about the many ways people have come to this country. It’s honest and I hope it subtly gives my kids (and all kids) the message that we all belong here.
Grover Cleveland, Again! by Ken Burns, illustrated by Gerald Kelley
A fun way for kids to learn the presidents in order, with little biographical nuggets for each. Heads up: it stops several presidents ago, so I'm currently on the hunt for one that includes the three most recent presidencies. If you know of a great one, please tell me in the comments.
My Fourth of July by Jerry Spinelli, illustrated by Larry Day
A small, classic-feeling picture book about one child's perfect 4th that captures the warm specific joy of the day.
Founding Mothers: Remembering the Ladies by Cokie Roberts, illustrated by Diane Goode
A great companion to all the Founding Fathers books out there, telling the stories of Abigail Adams, Martha Washington, Mercy Otis Warren, and the many women who shaped the revolution while history mostly forgot to write them down.
Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters by Barack Obama, illustrated by Loren Long
President Obama's love letter to his daughters, and to thirteen Americans, including Georgia O'Keeffe, Jackie Robinson, Helen Keller, and others whose qualities he sees in them. It's tender and patriotic in the best, most expansive sense of that word.