Books on the Declaration of Independence for Kids
Are you looking for great books on the Declaration of Independence for kids? So are we. :) Below are some excellent choices for introducing this important document to your students. Our list is short, but we're scouring the library shelves, the bookstores, the internet....looking for more great kids book on this important subject. If you know of one that we've overlooked, please let us know by clicking the link in the right hand column. We love getting book suggestions!
Declaration of Independence from A to Z
by Catherine Osornio & Layne Johnson
Using an alphabet book format, this
title touches on a range of events leading up to the Declaration of
Independence and its subsequent impacts (ie: A is
for America, B is for Boston Tea Party, C is for Continental
Congress...) This title
isn't a straightforward description of the document, but would be a
great supplemental or review title for teaching the Declaration of
Independence for kids!
In
our view, it's the illustrations that steal the show. We guarantee many
of Layne Johnson's vibrant, beautiful illustrations will make you feel
downright patriotic!
Interest Level: Grade 2-5
The Journey of the One and Only Declaration of Independence
by Judith St. George and Will Hillenbrand
A great title from the Caldecott Medal winning author of So You Want to be President. This title provides a fun and interesting look at the packed history of the Declaration of Independence, including all that this document has 'lived' through (ie: rolled up, copied, traveling by horseback, by sailing vessel, by mail truck, by railroad car, by military tank...) Judith St. George's lively prose and Hillenbrand's fantastic mixed media illustrations make this "a wonderful way to learn history." (SLJ, starred review)
Interest Level: Grade 3-6 DRA Level: 50 Lexile Measure: AD890L
The Declaration of Independence: The Words that Made America
Illustrated and inscribed by Sam Fink
This highly illustrated title presents the Declaration of Independence in kid-friendly portions, with each phrase from the Declaration paired with funny and educational illustration that illuminate the meaning or cleverly highlight the phrase. For example, a spread about the king being a tyrant shows an illustration of empty throne, with a note from the king saying that he is at Advanced Tyranny class.
We wholeheartedly agree with the review that called this "a fabulously readable surprise! " If you are teaching the Declaration of Independence for kids, this "clever and inspiring" (Publisher's Weekly), is just what you need to get your students engaged.
Give Me Liberty!: Story of the Declaration of Independence
by Russell Freedman
It's quite amazing that one person can generate this many fabulous history non-fiction books! In this title, Russell Freedman succeeds again, weaving drama and tension into his recounting of the events that lead up to the drafting of this document. He also covers key people and events, as well as the role and impact on larger groups like women and slaves. If you are teaching the Declaration of Independence for kids in the upper grades, this is a great resource.
-ALA Best Book for Young Adults
-NCSS Notable Social Studies Book
Interest Level: Grade 5-8
Lexile Measure: 1070L
We need more books on the Declaration of Independence for kids!
Can you help? We had three additional books listed, but then we deleted them since they weren't "best children's book" caliber. Now we really need to more! If you have books to share, please let us know!
