Written by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by S.D. Schindler
Ages 8-10
Every inventor has to start somewhere, and one of the greatest innovators in our history was no exception. Ben Franklin developed his first invention while doing what he loved best: swimming! Barb Rosenstock's rhythmic, whimsical style is the perfect complement to S. D. Schindler's pen and ink and watercolor illustrations.
Written by Peggy Thomas, illustrated by Layne Johnson
Ages 9-11
This picture book for older readers focuses on George Washington as farmer, inventor, and scientist. Infused with excerpts from George's letters and diaries, the narrative makes a convincing case for Washington's place as the nation's First Farmer. He invented a combination plow-tiller-harrow, tested different fertilizers, and bred donkeys and horses to create strong mules.
Written by Kate Hannigan, illustrated by Alison Jay
Ages 7-10
Written in the same vein as the recent best-selling titles I DISSENT and SHE PERSISTED, here is a picture-book biography of Belva Lockwood, a lawyer, activist and presidential candidate who devoted her life to overcoming obstacles and demanding equality for women.
Written by Selene Castrovilla, illustrated by Drazen Kozjan
Ages 8-12
Young fans of the smash Broadway hit "Hamilton" will enjoy this narrative nonfiction picture book about the important friendship between George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette during the Revolutionary War. Lafayette has come to America to offer his services to the patriotic cause.
Written by Selene Castrovilla, illustrated by John O'Brien
Ages 9-11
Gravely injured and with little chance for more military honors, Major General Benedict Arnold seeks reward and recognition another way. He contacts Major John André, the new head of British intelligence and another man determined to prove himself.
Written by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by John O'Brien
Ages 8-11
As soon as Thomas Jefferson learned to read, he found his passion: books, books, and more books! Before, during, and after the American Revolution, Jefferson collected thousands of books on hundreds of subjects. In fact, his massive collection eventually helped rebuild the Library of Congress—now the largest library in the world.
Written by Peggy Thomas, illustrated by Stacy Innerst
Ages 9-12
In this meticulously researched picture book for older readers, author Peggy Thomas uncovers Jefferson's passion for agriculture and his country. And Stacy Innerst's incredibly original illustrations offer the right balance of reverence and whimsy. This is Thomas Jefferson as he's never been seen before!
Written by J. Patrick Lewis, and George Ella Lyon
Ages 10+
The powerful poems in this poignant collection weave together multiple voices to tell the story of the March on Washington, DC, in 1963. From the woman singing through a terrifying bus ride to DC, to the teenager who came partly because his father told him, “Don’t you dare go to that march,” to the young child riding above the crowd on her father’s shoulders, each voice brings a unique perspective to this tale.
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