The Fourth of July is right around the corner and so are family picnics and parades. So why not add great picture books to your family activities? These books are good for different ages as indicated at the end of each book, except for the last five books which are picture books good for all ages.
World War II (Scholastic Discover More Series), by Sean Callery, has a reference book layout that explains the lead-up to the war and how Europe was deeply impacted, as well as the war in the Pacific. There is also a section about the war in Africa and the Middle East. The last part of this exceptional book discusses the many aspects of the ending of the war including the fall of Berlin and Hiroshima. This book is good for ages 10 through adult.
The California Gold Rush (Cornerstones of Freedom series), by Peter Benoit, is an excellent book (as is the entire history series) that brings this period of American history to life for ages 9 and older. The discovery of gold on the west coast created a surge and shift in America’s population. The terrific and colorful illustrations, recreating the mid 1800’s, along with photos and interesting information will have kids ages 8 through 12 engaged to the very end.
By the Great Horn Spoon!, by Sid Fleischman, is a terrific historical fiction book that is set during the California Gold Rush. Even though this book was first published back in 1988, it remains pertinent, funny and delightful today. Jack’s dear aunt has to sell her mansion to pay her bills so Jack sets out with the butler to make it rich in California. He sets sail and the adventure begins. The way this story is written will definitely bring about an understanding of life back then and it would be a great read-aloud. This book is good for all ages.
Knit Your Bit: A World War I Story, by Deborah Hopkinson, and painted with pen, ink and watercolors by Steven Guarnaccia, is based on an actual event that spread across the country to help serve soldiers fighting during World War I. One family had their father fighting in Europe and Mikey wanted to do something important to help. His school teacher suggested they knit clothing. The boys felt knitting was for girls until the teacher made a competition out of it.
Miss Moore Thought Otherwise, by Jan Pinborough, and illustrated with acrylic by Debby Atwell, showcases how libraries used to allow only adults to check out books back in the early 1900’s. Not only were kids not allowed to check out books; they weren’t even allowed inside the library. But Miss Moore thought otherwise and this book shows how she changed all of this and allowed kids to enjoy touching and reading books.
Crankee Doodle, by Tom Angleberger, and illustrated with great humor by Cece Bell, is a hilarious book that discusses how and why Yankee Doodle would ride to town with a feather in his hat and call it macaroni! All this crazy clothing and noodles made Mr. Doodle upset and just a little cranky. But be sure to read the historical note at the back of the book which actually helps make sense of this funny nonsensical song.