The bald eagle has symbolized freedom since the Great Seal was designed in 1782 – almost our nation’s beginning. Today we find bald eagles on dollar bills, stamps, flags, and more! Early readers will learn about the history and legacy of this powerful American image.
Since 1800, the White House has been the president’s home. In its halls, leaders sign treaties, the president gives speeches, and tourists learn about history. This fact-filled book teaches students about the past and present of the United States’ most famous building!
It was the War of 1812, and the Battle of Baltimore raged! The Americans’ valiant defense inspired Francis Scott Key to write a poem – and the Star-Spangled Banner was born. Readers will discover the origins of our national anthem in this engaging book.
The Founding Fathers dreamed of a nation that protected the rights of its people. Today, the Constitution and Bill of Rights still promise freedom for all. In this book, beginning readers will learn the basics of the Constitution and its role in the formation of our government.
At over 300 feet tall, the Statue of Liberty is a towering symbol of hope. The statue’s torch has lit the way to freedom for generations of Americans. This book examines the history and power of one of the United States’ most enduring monuments.
Did you know the Pledge of Allegiance began as a children’s magazine poem in 1892? Since then it has been recited in schools, courts, and more. This title introduces students to history and meaning of the Pledge.
In 1777, the United States flag had just 13 stars and stripes. How Old Glory has grown since then! Today, the flag flies over schools, libraries, government buildings, and more. Young readers will learn the flag’s symbolism and origins in this patriotic title.
Uh-oh, the car won’t start. Better call a mechanic! Mechanics test, care for, and repair the machines that keep our world running. This informative title helps readers understand the busy world of these community helpers.
Rain or shine, a farmer’s work is never done. Farmers grow crops, raise livestock, and gather eggs and milk. Young readers will get an inside look at a day in the life of these important community members!
Finding the right book can be daunting, but librarians are here to help! They buy books for the library, track down information, and even host read-a-louds. In this engaging title, beginning readers will learn all about how librarians support and shape our communities.
On June 19, 1865 – two years after the Emancipation Proclamation – Galveston, Texas became the last place in the country to learn the slaves were free. Today, Juneteenth is a joyful occasion with parades, speeches, music, and more! This engaging book teaches the fascinating origins and traditions of Juneteenth, honoring the freedom of African Americans.
With its 3,000-year-old beginnings, Passover is one of the world’s most ancient holidays. From the Exodus story to modern matzah bread hunts, this title showcases Passover’s long history and present-day traditions. Young readers will get an in-depth look at this celebration of freedom!
In the United States, Labor Day honors American workers. What started as a small labor union festival in 1882 has become a national holiday. Every first Monday in September, many schools and businesses close, and parades pop up across the country! This informative title explains the history and many transformations of Labor Day.
Where would we be without garbage collectors? They pick up our trash, help sort our recycling, and keep our neighborhoods clean. In this book, young readers will learn about the hardworking individuals who collect our trash.
Holi – the Hindu Festival of Colors – heralds the coming of spring. This vibrant title explores the ancient history and modern practices of this joyful holiday. Holi’s food, dance, music, and colors will captivate young readers.
With a top speed of 183 miles per hour, the 2015 Kawasaki Ninja H2 motorcycle is one impressive speed machine! But not all motorcycles are designed for speed. Some are made for cruising the country. Others go off road! This title allows young readers to explore the enticing world of motorcycles.
The wild reputation of Bodie was unmatched in the Old West. The California gold-mining town attracted a rough crowd. Bodie had gamblers, drinkers, gunslingers, and robbers all after riches. This high-interest children’s title includes a wealth of information about the gold rush that once made Bodie a “get rich” destination.
Craco’s historical happenings hint at a curse. The town faced a plague, then war, then earthquakes and landslides. In the end, the natural disasters dealt the final blow, causing Craco to physically collapse. In this book, young readers will discover a medieval town that eventually lost its uphill battle for survival.
Back in 1992, writer Mary Pope Osborne first invited readers to follow Jack and Annie into a tree house with magical books, and readers have been time traveling with these characters ever since! In this biography, elementary students will meet a talented literary travel agent.
Did you know that Gordon Korman’s mom typed his first book for him? This is because Gordon became a published author before he even graduated high school! This author profile for children introduces the lifelong writer responsible for sending troublemakers Boots and Bruno to Macdonald Hall.
Saint Patrick’s Day is the best day of the year to be Irish. The March 17th holiday celebrates Irish heritage and all its symbols—shamrocks, leprechauns, and more! Beginning readers will be seeing green in this origin story of Saint Patrick’s Day.
A groundhog named Phil is possibly the most sought-after meteorologist on February 2nd. Many people wait for his forecast to know how long winter might last. If he sees his shadow, the season will likely drag on for six more weeks. This title introduces beginning readers to an unusual weather-prediction tradition.
For kids, Halloween is all about the fun of pretending to be someone or something else. Many dress up like a funny character, scary creature, or famous person. Then they parade themselves door-to-door to fill bags of candy. This book gathers the basic facts about Halloween for young readers to enjoy!
Day of the Dead sounds like it should have a morbid, depressing tone. But the Latin American holiday is really focused on love and remembrance. Yes, people gather in cemeteries, but for dancing and decorating graves! This book shows kids a holiday that honors the lives of lost loved ones.
Earth Day is a call to be “green.” This means thinking like a conservationist about everything from what grocery bag to use to what type of transportation to take. Elementary students just might be inspired to clean up a park or plant a tree after this read.
