In just a few days, many Americans will celebrate the 4th of July, the day when, in 1776, the thirteen colonies declared independence from the British Empire. Below is a selection of books for young readers who are curious to learn more about this moment in history.
American Girl: The Boston Tea Party (Rebecca Paley)
The Boston Tea Party recounts life in early colonial America leading up to the famous tea tax protest that pushed the American Patriots and the British closer to war. American Girl Felicity Merriman shares how she found herself caught in between the two sides of the American Revolution. (Ages 7-10; Grades 2-5)
I Survived the American Revolution (Lauren Tarshis)
British soldiers were everywhere. There was no escape.
Nathaniel Fox never imagined he'd find himself in the middle of a blood-soaked battlefield, fighting for his life. He was only eleven years old! He'd barely paid attention to the troubles between America and England. How could he, while being worked to the bone by his cruel uncle, Uriah Storch?
But when his uncle's rage forces him to flee the only home he knows, Nate is suddenly propelled toward a thrilling and dangerous journey into the heart of the Revolutionary War. He finds himself in New York City on the brink of what will be the biggest battle yet. (Ages 7-10; Grades 2-5)
The Crossing: How George Washington Saved the American Revolution (Jim Murphy)
With his engaging and timeless narrative prose, two-time Newbery Honor Book author Jim Murphy tells the awe-inspiring story of George Washington's glorious fight for an independent America. (Ages 8-12)
America the Beautiful: Together We Stand (Katherine Lee Bates)
From George Washington to Barack Obama, each of our presidents has had a unique vision of America. In America The Beautiful, these ideas are translated into gorgeous illustrations by such top artists as Bryan Collier, Jon J Muth, Diane Goode, Mary GrandPré, Raul Colon, Sonia Lynn Sadler, Yuyi Morales, John Hendrix, LeUyen Pham, and Chris Soentpiet. Each of these talented illustrators has found a unique way to interpret the values and beliefs that have built our great country. Through moving illustrations from some of the most distinguished artists, America The Beautiful integrates the lyrics of the familiar patriotic tune with inspiring presidential quotations. America The Beautiful will help teach children about our country's great leaders while highlighting American values such as diversity, unity, and freedom. (all ages)
Liberty (The Puppy Place #32) (Ellen Miles)
Welcome to the Puppy Place--where every puppy finds a home!
Charles and Lizzie Peterson love puppies. Their family fosters these young dogs, giving them love and proper care, until they can find the perfect forever home.
Lizzie and her family go to the beach for a July 4th weekend trip. Liberty, a golden retriever puppy, gets spooked by the fireworks display and loses her owners. Can the Petersons find her home, even while they are on vacation? (Ages 7-10)
George Washington's Spy: A Time Travel Adventure (Elvira Woodruff)
When Katie and her twin cousins step into a mysterious rowboat, Matt and his three buddies run to their rescue. But they are too late--and soon the seven are swept back in time--to Boston in 1775. The British have occupied the city, and George Washington and his troops are planning an attack. While the boys are trying to find their way to the girls after being separated, the boys become entangled with patriot spies. (Ages 8-12)
Those Rebels, John and Tom (Barbara Kerley, Illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham)
A brilliant portrait of two American heroes from the award-winning creators of The Extraordinary Mark Twain (According to Susy)! With their signature wit, impeccable research, and inventive presentation style, award winners Barbara Kerley and Edwin Fotheringham masterfully blend biography and history to create a brilliant portrait of two American heroes who bravely set aside their differences to join forces in the fight for our country’s freedom. (Ages 7-10)
