What is independence? Why is independence so special? Why do we need a day to celebrate independence?
As the Fourth of July comes closer, you might find your child asking you some—if not all— of the questions above. Breaking down a concept as important as Independence Day, and the need to celebrate it, might prove to be a challenge for younger children. Here are five easy-to-read picture books that will help make the learning process more fun:
“My Fourth of July”| by Jerry Spinelli, illustrated by Larry Day
Offering readers of all ages an award-winning tale by Newberry Medalist Jerry Spinelli and award-winning illustrator Larry Day, “My Fourth of July” provides parents and children a glimpse of small-town American cheer with the story of a responsible little boy who wants to join in Fourth of July celebrations but has a lot of tasks to complete before he can do so. This book shows children how they can contribute to holiday celebrations in a manner that is both fun, meaningful and truly “theirs.”
“Apple Pie Fourth of July”| by Janet S. Wong
Revolving around a common issue faced by young children, wherein they feel as though they don’t quite fit into a specific culture, “Apple Pie Fourth of July” shows how there is a place for everyone. Depicting a story that plays a somewhat formative role in the life of a little girl, our protagonist goes from feeling excluded to realizing that inclusion actually dwells within her. This book also advocates for representation of diverse celebrations, recognizing that there is no one way to celebrate independence.
“Hello, Fourth of July!” | written and illustrated by Martha Day Zschock
A funny-bone-tickling book that uses personification to its complete advantage, “Hello, Fourth of July” depicts Independence Day celebrations through the eyes of a parent and child eagle who are engulfed by the red, white and blue. Using this animal perspective to elevate the freshness of the narrative, this book invites young readers to join hands (or rather, wings) with the conquerors of the sky and explore the questions surrounding Independence Day together!
“Happy Birthday, America” | by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Peter Catalanotto
Just like you have your birthday every year and enjoy celebrating it with a cake, candles, your friends and the decorations of your choosing, America has her birthday, too, and loves celebrating it with the entire nation. This simple yet relatable analogy portrayed in “Happy Birthday, America” enables young minds to understand how Fourth of July is actually America’s birthday—and that the celebrations that occur on this date are meant to make her day special. Come, blow out the stars—which are the glowing candles—on America’s magnificent birthday cake!
“A is for America: A Patriotic Alphabet Book” | by Tanya Lee Stone
A book where learning about American history is actually as easy as learning your ABCs, “A is for America: A Patriotic Alphabet Book” uses a combination of rhyming couplets and vibrant illustrations to introduce young learners to the otherwise complex intricacies of American independence. Proving that music is truly the best connector, the book leads the reader through its diverse aspects by way of song and melody—all the way from the Constitution to the Declaration of Independence!
