President’s Day is February 17, 2020. Celebrate by reading some of these awesome books about presidents that honor those men who have shaped our nation.
My Little Golden Book About George Washington
by Lori H. Houran, illustrated by Viviana Garofoli
Best for Grades PreK-1
An account of how George Washington came to be the first president of the United States. It also shares details such as his love of fishing and horseback riding and includes an overview of the Revolutionary War.
P is For President
by Wendy Cheyette Lewison, illustrated by Valerio Fabbretti
Best for Grades PreK-1
Covers all the basics about the role of President of the United States, from how one is elected, to how he–or potentially she spends the day. It also includes memorable quirky facts, like how one president had a pet alligator.
What is the President’s Job?
by Allison Singer
Best for Grades K-2
With a collection of engaging photographs, this nonfiction reader gives information about the presidency, with attention to the different facets of the job, like working with Congress and other world leaders, acting as commander of the armed forces, and upholding various traditions.
Abe Lincoln: His Wit and Wisdom From A-Z
by Alan Schroeder, illustrated by John O’Brien
Best for Grades K-2
The story of our popular 16th president in an alphabet book format. Includes information about Abraham Lincoln from childhood through his early career to his tenure as president.
Dear Mr. Washington
by Lynn Cullen, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter
Best for Grades K-4
A colorful, funny story centered around George Washington’s correspondence with young Charlotte Stuart and her siblings. As her father (prominent painter Gilbert Stuart) attempts to paint Washington’s portrait, the children’s shenanigans throw the process off course.
Thomas Jefferson: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Everything
by Maira Kalman
Best for Grades K-4
Thomas Jefferson, our third president, accomplished great things, from writing the Declaration of Independence and doubling the size of the US with the Louisiana Purchase, to establishing the Library of Congress. His remarkable, complicated personality is brought to life in this book.
Nice Work, Franklin!
by Suzanne Tripp Jurmain, illustrated by Larry Day
Best for Grades K-4
Franklin Roosevelt was elected to an unprecedented four terms as the president of the United States. Famously stubborn, with strong humanitarian views, FDR served our country in times of worldwide economic depression and war. His accomplishments largely redefined the role of government in our country.
What Presidents Are Made Of
by Hanoch Piven
Best for Grades 3-5
A visually amazing book that weaves anecdotes of the charismatic personalities of some of our prominent presidents with whimsical collages made of everyday objects such as jelly beans, hot dogs, and more.
Who Was Theodore Roosevelt?
by Michael Burgan, illustrated by Jerry Hoare and Nancy Harrison
Best for Grades 3-7
In addition to being the youngest president ever elected, Teddy Roosevelt was also the first sitting president to win the Nobel Peace Prize, to ride in an automobile, and to fly in an airplane! He was also famous for being a naturalist, hunter, explorer, author, and soldier.
Dream Big Dreams: Photographs from Barack Obama’s Inspiring and Historic Presidency
by Pete Souza
Best for Grades 3-8
Chief Official White House Photographer Pete Souza organizes this collection of photos and reflections around themes such as “Be Kind and Respectful,” “Make Time for Family,” and “Show Compassion,” making for a different take on the role of President than traditional nonfiction titles.
Who Was Woodrow Wilson?
by Margaret Frith, illustrated by Andrew Thomson and Nancy Harrison
Best for Grades 3-7
Former professor, university president and governor of the state of New Jersey, Woodrow Wilson served two terms as president during a tenuous time in our country’s history. He was a born leader with progressive ideas who lived a life of magnificent accomplishment as well as heartbreaking personal tragedies.
Kid Presidents: True Tales of Childhood from America’s Presidents
by David Stabler, illustrated by Doogie Horner
Best for Grades 4-8
David Stabler introduces this title by promising, “This book proves that any kid can grow up to be president. Because every U.S. president started out as a regular kid. Just like you.” The relatable stories describe former leaders’ childhood hobbies, pranks, and run-ins with bullies.
Action Presidents #1: George Washington!
by Fred Van Lente, illustrated by Ryan Dunlavey
Best for Grades 4-8
This graphic novel format book features narrator Noah His-Turkey, pardoned by the White House and passionate about historical truth, who shares childhood anecdotes, Revolutionary War sequences, and interesting details. Also available: Action Presidents #2: Abraham Lincoln!
Rutherford B. Who Was He?
by Marilyn Singer and John Hendrix
Best for Grades 4 and up
A fun collection of illustrated verse that takes a new look at the American presidents. Packed with facts and historical references as well as human interest elements.
Our Country’s Presidents: A Complete Encyclopedia of the U.S. Presidency
by Ann Bausum
Best for Grades 4-8
A very complete and organized chronology with lots of timelines, lists, sidebars, artwork, maps, photos and fun facts to lighten the text.