10 Must-Read American History Picture Books for Presidents’ Day
Picture books are a great way to introduce the history and accomplishments of America’s presidents. It can also spark meaningful conversations about the office of the Presidency. To help you pick out the perfect read-aloud book, I’ve gathered a list of some favorite American history picture books focused on Presidents Lincoln and Washington. I’ve also included several options about the path to the presidency and the role of the president.
This round-up of 10 great Presidents’ Day books for kids will educate and entertain your learners, from sweet and silly stories about their personal lives to informative biographies.
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Celebrate Presidents’ Day with these Fun and Educational Picture Books
1. Celebrating Presidents’ Day: What is a President? by Kimberly Jackson
This is a perfect choice for classroom activities during Presidents Day. This book is a comprehensive and interactive guide that provides students with a detailed look at the role and responsibilities of the President of the United States.
Through colorful illustrations, fun activities, and easy-to-understand text, students learn about the history of the presidency. They also learn about the qualifications and duties of the President and the impact of different presidents on American history.
As such, this book is an excellent resource for students of all ages to learn about the presidency and the political process in America.
Get the book: Celebrating Presidents’ Day: What is a President?
2. So You Want to Be the President by Judith St. George
With colorful illustrations, easy-to-understand text, and a wealth of historical information, you’ll love the style of this book. In addition, your students will learn about the requirements of becoming president and the many responsibilities of the job.
An excellent resource for students interested in learning more about the presidency and the political process in America.
Get the book: So You Want to Be the President
3. George Washington’s Teeth by Deborah Chandra & Madeleine Comora
George Washington’s Teeth is a fun and informative children’s book that uniquely explores Washington’s life. Through the story of Washington’s dental struggles, students will learn about the everyday life of the first president of the United States, the medical practices of the time, the role of dental hygiene in history…and the true story of Washington’s famous wooden teeth.
Get the book: George Washington’s Teeth
4. Tad Lincoln’s Restless Wriggle: Pandemonium & Patience in the President’s House by Beth Anderson
A delightful and historically accurate children’s book that brings the life of Abraham Lincoln’s youngest son, Tad, to life. Through the story of Tad’s mischievous and energetic nature, students will learn about the inner workings of the White House during the Civil War and the role of children in the presidential family.
Therefore, this book is a great way to give students a unique perspective on the Lincoln family and the Civil War era in America.
Get the book: Tad Lincoln’s Restless Wriggle: Pandemonium & Patience in the President’s House
5. If I Ran for President by Catherine Stier
An inspiring and engaging children’s book that encourages young readers to think about the importance of leadership and civic engagement.
The story of a young girl who runs for class president, this story teaches the political process and the value of standing up for what you believe in.
This book is a great way to inspire future leaders and spark a love for politics in your students.
Get the book: If I Ran for President
6. Dear Mr. Washington by Lynn Cullen
Dear Mr. Washington by Lynn Cullen is a fascinating historical fiction book that brings the life of George Washington to life in a unique and personal way. Written as a series of letters by a young enslaved man named Hercules, the book teaches about Washington’s life and legacy. However, it also teaches about the role of slavery in the early days of America.
This book is a great way to give students a deeper understanding of the founding father’s life and the history of America.
Get the book: Dear Mr. Washington
7. Duck for President by Doreen Cronin
A whimsical and entertaining children’s book that introduces students to the political process in a fun and engaging way. The story of a duck who runs for president, the book teaches about the aspects of the election process and the importance of leadership.
Despite its silly nature, this book will teach much about the election process. Also, it will be a hit with your students! It is a great way to make learning about politics fun and accessible.
I love this book so much. In fact, it is the read-aloud in my print-and-use Presidents’ Day Language Arts Lessons! Learn more about them or grab a copy by clicking below now.
Get the book: Duck for President
8. Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio
A charming and relatable children’s book that teaches young readers about the importance of civic engagement and leadership. The story of a girl named Grace, who runs for class president, Grace for President teaches about the political process. It also teaches the value of standing up for what you believe in.
This book is a great way to inspire future leaders and spark a love for politics in your students.
Get the book: Grace for President
9. Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President & the Country by Kathleen Krull
This a unique and captivating way to introduce your students to the life of Abraham Lincoln. First and foremost, this book will give your students a different perspective on Lincoln’s character, showing how his humor helped him through difficult times. When it comes to picture book biographies, this isn’t your average book. In fact, my kiddos asked me to read it several times they enjoyed it so much.
Through the witty and relatable text, students will learn about Lincoln’s personal struggles and how he used his wit and humor to connect with the American people and lead the country through a trying time.
Get the book: Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President & the Country
10. Looking at Lincoln by Maira Kalman
The perfect way to introduce your students to the life and legacy of one of America’s most iconic presidents. First, the vibrant illustrations and engaging text make Lincoln’s story come alive, making it a favorite amongst my list of picture books baout American history for kids. High-quality storytelling will transport your class back in time as they learn about Lincoln’s humble beginnings, transformative presidency, and enduring impact on American history.
Therefore, this book is a must-read for any Presidents’ Day curriculum and will leave a lasting impression on your students.
Get the book: Looking at Lincoln
Read-Alouds are a Great Way to Connect Literacy & Social Studies
Finally, if you’re looking for more great reads beyond these picture books about American history, check out my February Novel Study blog post. It’s got some great suggestions. In fact, you’ll even find a few for Presidents’ Day novel units.
Regardless of your next steps, plan to celebrate Presidents’ Day with a great picture book read aloud. After you’ve had a chance to look at this list, I’m sure you’ve got some great ideas that will inspire learning about American history. You can also find some great videos on Presidents’ Day in the companion post I wrote: 5 Presidents Day Videos Kids Love
