A lot has been going on in this country politically, and perhaps the most important (and exciting) event coming up is Inauguration Day (January 20, 2021). In honor of this historic moment, the nonprofit Reading Partners has curated a list of books to help parents explain our country's democracy to their kids.
Reading Partners, an early literacy nonprofit, chose these books to help spark conversations about democracy and inspire children to learn about civic engagement. When kids understand how they can get involved, that helps quell "confusion - and even fear - around what has been a year of political uncertainties."
Let me know if you've read any of these books in the comments!
The main character, Grace, is shocked that there has never been a woman president. She decides to enter the school election. Readers are exposed to responsible campaigning practices, election conventions, the electoral college, and voting. In the end, Grace wins the election!
I read this book to my daughter the week of the election. I won't lie; I cried a bit at the end!
Duck for President by Doreen Cronin
Duck wants to make a change on his farm, so he hosts an election. Once he wins, he sees the work is hard. In an effort to improve work for the “boss” of the farm, he runs for mayor to make bigger changes. Again he wins, and again he learns leading is even harder at this level. And so it goes until he is president and learns a true appreciation for how much work goes into being a leader.
What’s the Big Deal About Elections by Rubi Shamir
A great informational text that shares fun and important facts about elections at a digestible level. Think everything from why elections are held on certain days, who was able to vote and when, and the formation of political parties.
Lillian’s Right to Vote by Jonah Winter
This book is a historical account of the struggles of African-Americans throughout history, celebrating the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Readers learn about the different policies in place that kept their vote silenced through discrimination and tests. Follow 100-year-old Lillian on her walk to the ballot box as she votes for the very first time.
If I Ran for President by Catherine Stier
This book dives into what it takes to be president, including understanding all of the challenges facing the country and the people you represent. Children will learn the vocabulary of the election process and understand the weight of responsibility for the president.
When You Grow Up to Vote by Eleanor Roosevelt
Originally published in 1932, this book written by Eleanor Roosevelt explains what our elected officials do, as well as each citizen’s role in a democracy. Updates have been made in the re-release to make it more inclusive through illustrations. The book also talks about all civil servant roles, not just elected officials. Firefighters, teachers, and garbage men are all highlighted and connected to why voting matters in their chosen field.
What Can a Citizen Do by Dave Eggers
This book explores what it means to be a citizen—that as a member of society we have a responsibility to be active and involved. Empowering messages about joining a cause, speaking up, or writing letters show how citizens have the chance to change the world.
Bold and Brave: Ten Heroes Who Won Women the Right to Vote by Kirsten Gillibrand
This book introduces young readers to ten American women who worked tirelessly for women’s rights. It focuses on the work of bold, brave activists and suffragists across history and, ultimately, looks optimistically to the future.
So You Want to be President by Judith St. George
The book offers a historical look at the first 41 presidents of the United States. Readers will have fun looking at who they were personally, as well as what they contributed to our national story.
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