Over the years, I have found that children are sometimes left in the dark about the meaning behind Independence Day. With tomorrow being America’s day to celebrate all things about the land of the free and home of the brave, I thought kids and parents might like a few suggestions for books about our history, culture and traditional heritage.
Perhaps somewhere between the parades, fireworks and family get-togethers, your child might find a few moments to read about up on the country. To that end, here are a few books that ChildrensBookStore.com offers to patrons looking for some new reading to nurture patriotic, but critical, thinking.
Happy Independence Day to all of the young readers out there!
“Freedom Song: The Story of Henry “Box” Brown” by Sally Walker is the tale of an escape from slavery and the exhilarating taste of freedom.
“This Land is Your Land” by Woodie Guthrie is a book on the classic American ballad that every child learns and often loves to sing.
“Five 4ths of July” by Pat Hughs is a great read for youngsters who love adventure but may not appreciate America’s revolutionary past. Kids learn through the eyes of Jake as he is put into increasingly difficult situations that test his will and teach him about the origins of American culture.
“Uncle Sam’s America” by David Hewitt is a book that gives kids a patriotic peak at what America looked like in the early days.
“Pilgrims Don’t Wear Pink” by Stephanie Strohm is an amazing read for the tween girls out there, since its told in a way that will draw her interest but keep her learning at the same time.
A wonderful holiday selection for the little ones, loveable bear Corduroy is featured in the book “Corduroy’s 4th of July” by Don Freeman.
These and other great books about America are available here and you can watch a video of Whitney Houston’s famous rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” at Super Bowl XXV below.