In honor of July 4th, I’ve collected a bevy of interesting, informative, and entertaining books to share with the children in your life. Kick back and enjoy!
Red, White, and BOOM!
Written by Lee Wardlaw
Illustrated by Huy Voun Lee
This picture book is a sweet and poetic celebration of fireworks and 4th of July fun. I especially love the diverse representation of children on the cover and throughout the book!
What is America?
Written by Michelle Medlock Adams
Illustrated by Amy Wummer
This PB poses questions in a humorous way but is a great springboard for discussing freedom and democracy.
The 50 States
Written by Gabrielle Balkan
Illustrated by Sol Linero
This infographic hardcover book contains “a curious collection of maps” with super cool details like ghost towns, swamp tours, and bacon donuts!! Plus serious details like reservations, battlefields, and state forests, all of which show the history and diversity of our great nation.
Hello, Fourth of July
Created by Martha Day Zscock
This simple book is a perfect way to introduce kids 2-5 to American traditions, symbols, and diversity.
The American Revolution: Great Battles for Boys
By Joe Giorello
Part of the Great Battles for Boys collection, this rollicking book is guaranteed to whet your 3rd-6th grade reader’s appetite for more! Written in a very folksy, approachable style, it will make them feel the yoke of King George III’s tyranny and yearn to join the fight for life, liberty, and justice for all!
America’s Black Founders
By Nancy L, Sanders
Perfect for 9 years old and up, this book highlights black individuals who deserve recognition for their contributions to our nation’s fight for freedom. This is a great historical reference book for home and classroom!
Paul Revere’s Ride
Written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Illustrated by Ted Rand
From Kirkus Reviews: “The clatter of hooves seems to echo in Rand’s evocative paintings of that famed midnight ride….”
Need I say more?!?
America the Beautiful
Written by Cholena Rose Dare
Illustrated by Katie Melrose
Geared toward kids 5-8, this gorgeous hardcover provides maps, fun state facts, info about National Parks, and more the whole family will enjoy. You’ll want to display this one on your coffee table!
The History of Juneteenth
Written by Arlisha Norwood
As we celebrate America’s freedom, I’d be remiss if I didn’t include this amazing history book. It will have you dancing and singing in celebration of slavery becoming illegal on June 19, 1865! This is guaranteed to inspire home and classroom discussions.
Let Liberty Rise!
By Chana Stiefel
Illustrated by Chuck Groenink
From Amazon: “How did 121,000 Americans save their most beloved icon? Here is an inspiring story about the power we have when we all work together!”
Your kids will love this rollicking true story!
THE JOURNEY OF the one and only Declaration of Independence
Written by Judith St. George
Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand
Educational and entertaining (giggle-producing, according to one reader), this history book will appeal to kids and adults alike. Well researched and beautifully illustrated, this belongs on every bookshelf, home, school, and library.
The Night Before the Fourth of July
Written by Natasha Wing
Illustrated by Amy Wummer
This rhyming picture book offers a great way to introduce preschoolers to this exciting holiday. This book has 1,010 mostly 5-star ratings on Amazon and is part of the super-popular “The Night Before” series.
Ladies of Liberty
Written by Cokie Roberts
Illustrated by Diane Goode
I couldn’t resist ending with this insightful book by celebrated journalist, political commentator, and news analyst Cokie Roberts that “pays homage to the heroic women whose patriotism and sacrifice helped create our nation.” (From Audiofile)
WRITERS' RUMPUS 
What a great collection of important books!
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SO important for kids to have books that remind them why we celebrate on July 4th.
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Donna,
I completely agree!
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Great choices! Thanks, Laura. Have added them to my reading list.
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These are great choices! Lots of new titles to add to my reading list. Thanks much!
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That’s great, Marty! I’m glad you liked my list! It was so fun choosing them.
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These sound great! I love reading about American history—it is one of my very favorite topics.
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Thank you, Hilary! I share your passion for learning about American history. I had so much fun picking these books out and think all American schoolchildren would benefit from and enjoy reading these.
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