The Best Patriotic Picture Books
Regardless of your political affiliation, I think we can all agree that what makes America such a special country is freedom. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom to live our lives the way we wish. We wanted to make a list of our favorite patriotic picture books to remind us why we celebrate the 4th of July.
In honor of the birth of the nation, we present you with a list of our favorite patriotic picture books. Enjoy your holiday and Happy 4th of July.
Patriotic Picture Books
President Taft is Stuck in the Bath
Author: Mac Barnett
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Year: 2016
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 4-8
More info: Bestselling Authors and Illustrator
Plot
This is the true story of President Taft getting stuck in the bath, and Mac Barnett’s storytelling adds a hilarious twist.
Chris Van Dusen’s illustrations enhance the story and take the book to the next level.
Why Kirsten loves it
This duo takes a true story and adds a special twist. It is the perfect pick for patriotic picture books, but also if you want to have a great laugh.
Find this book in: The Best Patriotic Picture Books / Children’s Books About Presidents
George Washington’s Teeth
Author: Deborah Chandra & Madeline Comora
Illustrator: Brock Cole
Year:
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More info:
Plot
The book tells the story of George Washington’s life from the time he lost his teeth. My kids thought it was funny and didn’t realize I was sneaking in a history lesson! It is based on Washington’s actual letters and diaries.
Why Jackie loves it
I picked this up a few months ago and immediately fell in love with this book. I am lucky enough to live near Valley Forge. Kirsten and I took all our kids, had a picnic, and read this book. The kids were all cracking up.
Find this book in: The Best Patriotic Picture Books / Children’s Books About Presidents
She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World
Author: Chelsea Clinton
Illustrator: Alexandra Boiger
Year: 2017
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 4 – 8
More info: Part of the She Persisted series
Plot
This picture book chronicles the lives of thirteen women who are at the center of America’s success on the world stage including Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Nellie Bly, Sally Ride, and Sonia Sotomayor.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love that a former First Daughter wrote this inspiring book about American women who shaped this great nation. Nothing says Patriotic kids’ books quite like the books that acknowledge women’s contributions to history.
I Am Abraham Lincoln
Author: Brad Meltzer
Illustrator: Christopher Eliopoulos
Year: 2014
Genre: Nonfiction Picture Book
Age: 4+
More info: Part of the Ordinary People Change the World Series
Plot
Arguably one of the most beloved presidents in US history, we couldn’t leave Abraham Lincoln off this list of patriotic picture books!
You cannot get more patriotic than Abraham Lincoln, and this is a perfect pick if you are looking for 4th of July books. This story is actually part of Brad Meltzer’s “I Am” series.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love the timeline of events in Lincoln’s history along with the adorable illustrations.
Find this book in: The Best Patriotic Picture Books / Children’s Books About Presidents
Locomotive
Author: Brian Floca
Illustrator: Brian Floca
Year: 2013
Genre: Nonfiction Picture Book
Age: 6 – 10
More info: Caldecott Medal Winner, Sibert Honor Book, New York Times Bestseller
Plot
Heavier on text but with richly detailed illustrations, this tale of the early American railroad is a Caldecott Winner.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love the retro feel and my train lovers ask me to read this on repeat!
Find this book in: Patriotic Picture Books / Best Books for 10-year-olds
Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters
Author: Barack Obama
Illustrator: Loren Long
Year: 2010
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 5+
More info:
Plot
In this letter to his daughters, Obama writes a tribute to thirteen Americans who shaped our nation. From Jackie Robinson to George Washington and Georgia O’Keeffe. This is a book that celebrates the creativity and differences that bring us together as one nation.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a moving and powerful book that is beautifully written and illustrated.
Find this book in: Children’s Books About Presidents / The Best Patriotic Picture Books
Larry Gets Lost in Philadelphia
Author: John Skewes and Michael Mullin
Illustrator: John Skewes
Year: 2013
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3 – 7
Plot
In this sweet story, you can see hundreds of historic sites around Philly. This adorable tale features the most famous sites as a dog roams the streets in search of his owner.
Why Kirsten loves it
I couldn’t write this list without including a book about my own wonderful city. After all, Philadelphia is the birthplace of freedom. Â
The Star-Spangled Banner
Author: Peter Spier
Illustrator: Pete Spier
Year: 2014
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 5 – 9
Plot
Famed author-illustrator Peter Spier is back with a tribute to the Star-Spangled Banner and the War of 1812, known as the “Second War of Independence.”
Trigger Warnings
This shows battle scenes from the War of 1812, but they are tasteful, not gruesome.
Why Kirsten loves it
What a beautifully illustrated version of the famous song. I adore reading it while singing along.
We the People: The Constitution of the United States
Author: Peter Spier
Illustrator: Peter Spier
Year: 2020
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 5 – 9
Plot
This is the second appearance of Peter Spier on our list. This illustrated version of The Constitution of the United States shows Americans from all walks of life and various times throughout our history.
Why Jackie loves it
The beautiful illustrations in this pick make it a must-read for every household.
