Patriotic Picture Books for the 4th of July!

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.

It is important to note that America wasn’t always free. We celebrate the 4th of July every year to remember how we became the Land of the Free. 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

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George Washington’s Teeth by Deborah Chandra

I picked this up a few months ago at Cathy’s Half Priced Books. 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!

America the Beautiful by Katharine Bates and Wendell Minor

Katharine Bates’s famous tune, American the Beautiful,  is set against gorgeous illustrations of our country. There is a guide at the end of the book that explains each illustrated area of the country as well as a map.

President Taft is Stuck in the Bath by Mac Barnett and Chris Van Dusen

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. (You know Chris Van Dusen is our favorite!)

Locomotive by Brian Floca

Heavier on text but with richly detailed illustrations, this tale of the early American railroad is a Caldecott Winner. I love the retro feel and my train lovers ask me to read this on repeat!

She Persisted: 13 American Woman Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton

If you follow us on Instagram, you know how excited I was when my mom picked this up for my kids. I love that a former First Daughter wrote this inspiring book of American women who shaped this great nation.

I am Abraham Lincoln by Brad Meltzer 

Arguably one of the most beloved President in US history, we couldn’t leave Abraham Lincoln off this list! This story is actually part of Brad Meltzer’s “I Am” series.

Of Thee I Sing by Barack Obama

President Obama’s moving tribute to his daughters covers famous Americans who made an impact on our culture. From Georgia O’Keefe to Jackie Robinson to Helen Keller this book celebrates American achievement and should absolutely be on your bookshelves!

Larry Gets Lost in Philadelphia by John Skewes

We couldn’t write this list and leave out a book about our own wonderful city. Philadelphia is the birth place of freedom.  You can see hundreds of historic sites around town. This adorable tale features the most famous sites as a dog roams the streets in search of his owner.

The Star-Spangled Banner by Peter Spier

A beautifully illustrated version of the famous song. Warning, it does show battle scenes from the American Revolution, but they are tasteful, not gruesome.

We the People by Peter Spier

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.