Your little ones may identify the Fourth of July as a day that is filled with endless hot dogs, yummy cool desserts and lots of fun with family and friends. But, the historical significance behind this holiday shouldn't be dismissed, as I have always felt that it is very important for all of us to to take a moment to explain the reasons behind why this day is so very important, not only for our nations history, but for all of us who call the United States home. Here are a few tales that may help as you answer your little ones questions.
Filled with full color photos, this simple introduction (about 25 pages) about the history as well as the many traditions of the Fourth of July is a good fit for beginning readers between the ages of 4 to 7. I appreciated the informative details that the author as well as the publisher, places in this tale, including a handy index and reference section, to help your little ones discover more about this holiday.
The Fourth of July (Wonder Books-Level 2)
Written by Cynthia Klingel & Robert B. Noyed
Publisher: Child's World (2002)
For ages 6 and up
ISBN: 9781567669541
Retails (prices vary)
Accelerated Reader Book Level: 1.9
Accelerated Reader Points: 0.5
For many in my generation, we can recall reading Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's famous poem, published in 1861 in the Atlantic Monthly called, Paul Revere's Ride. His captivating prose recalled Revere's historic ride to Lexington during the nights of April 18th-19th in 1775, to warn the colonists that the British were on their way, and instantly, a legend was born. But, this wasn't all that defined the life of this American patriot, as Who Was Paul Revere? provides a great deal more of insight into one of the most fascinating figures in history.
Written by Roberta Edwards, Who Was Paul Revere?, an interesting overview that earns it's place among many in these well-known illustrated biography series. It is written in a way that children will be captivated about the life of Revere (who, we learn in this tale, that he was involved in numerous aspects of politics, industry, he even created false teeth from the tusks of hippos; to community service before his death in 1818 at the age of 83.
****Momma's tip: If your family is heading to, or lives near the Boston area, make it a point to take a trip back in time and visit The Paul Revere House. Please visit the following website for more information: http://www.paulreverehouse.org/index.html****
Who Was Paul Revere?
Written by Roberta Edwards & Illustrated by John O'Brien
Publisher: Grosset & Dunlap, a division of Penguin Books (2011)
Website: www.penguin.com
Retails for $4.49
For ages 8 thru 12
ISBN: 978-0448457154
Accelerated Reader Book Level: 4.8
Accelerated Reader Points: 1.0
Since I was young, I've always enjoyed reading accounts of what life was like for the pioneering Americans who traveled across the country during the mid 1800s, in search of new opportunities. The numerous hazards of these difficult, and downright dangerous journeys were overcome by their brave spirits and determination, which always amazed me. A Fourth of July on the Plains, written by Jean Van Leeuwen and illustrated by Henri Sorensen, is yet another uplifting story about the power and determination of the American spirit. Based on the diary of E.W. Conyers and Jesse A. Applegate's 1914 tale, Recollections of My Boyhood,
a young boy named Jesse and his family have embarked on a journey across the country by wagon to settle in Oregon, when they stop to celebrate the Fourth of July. Jesse and his family gather together with their fellow travelers give speeches, sewed a flag and enjoyed a gathering filled with food and good company that put to rest his apprehension that this Fourth of July just couldn't be the same on the plains as it was back in his hometown.
A Fourth of July on the Plains
Written by Jean Van Leeuwen & Illustrated by Henri Sorensen
Publisher: Dial (1997)
ISBN: 9780803717718
For ages 7 and up
Retails (prices vary)
Accelerated Reader Book Level: 4.0
Accelerated Reader Points: 0.5
Wishing you and your little ones a very Happy and safe 4th of July!
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