7 Books for Kids Who Love American History

Today is not only Ulysses S. Grant’s birthday (our 18th president for those who haven’t flexed that history muscle in a while – also the general who led the union to victory in the Civil War), but also the birthday of Samuel F. Morse – the man who invented the telegraph, and of course, Morse code! So, in celebration of all these historic birthdays, we thought we would compile a list of some fun children’s history books for you! For those of you who have budding history buffs in your nest, or perhaps would like to cultivate an appreciation for the roots of the US in your little ones, read on:

History for Little Pilgrims, by Michael McHugh

Young students will be presented with a lively overview of both American and world history. Children will learn about the nations, early explorers and cultures, the discovery of the Americas, and the growth and development of the United States. Numerous full-color illustrations, maps, and chapter questions help to ensure excellent student comprehension. Geography lessons are also included.

King George: What Was His Problem? Everything Your Schoolbooks Didn’t Tell You About the American Revolution, by Steve Sheinkin

This book is the brilliant creation of a former historical textbook writer frustrated that the books he wrote couldn’t contain all the cool, fun information he found out about political leaders of the past. What comes from that edited information is this amusing, yet highly informative middle grade guide book that shares little known facts about King George and the American Revolution. And it does it in a way that will your teen reader enthralled while also not overwhelming them with historical data. I wish all history books looked like this one when I was in school!

America the Beautiful: A Pop-up Book, by Robert Sabuda

Master paper engineer Robert Sabuda has interpreted the classic American anthem “America the Beautiful” in dazzling dimension. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Mount Rushmore to the Statue of Liberty, America has never looked more spectacular. This stunning keepsake masterpiece will be shared and admired by generations to come; indeed, it is a national treasure in and of itself.

Ben Franklin: His Wit and Wisdom from A-Z, by Alan Schroeder

Benjamin Franklin devised armonicas and bifocals, helped bring us the Constitution and signed the Declaration of Independence, and even experiment with electricity and invented the Franklin stove. He amassed enough noteworthy accomplishments to cover the entire alphabet from A to Z. This nontraditional tribute has information about a Founding Father who was as amusing as he was amazing.

Shh! We’re Writing the Constitution, by Jean Fritz

This engaging account of the 1787 Constitutional Convention shows how the Constitution came to be written and ratified. Interspersed within the facts are fun tidbits that bring key people and events to life. What makes this book a stand out is Fritz’s ability to simplify without condescending.

Worst of Friends: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and the True Story of an American Feud, by Suzanne Tripp Jurmain

Every child can relate to not always seeing eye to eye with a good friend. Which was exactly what happened between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams—two good friends with personalities that often contradicted each other. A fun glimpse for young readers into the important, yet sometimes volatile, relationship between two friends who finally learned how to work together to help forge what became our nation’s governmental structure.

Alexander Hamilton: The Outsider, by Jean Fritz

This is the book of all books for young readers about Alexander Hamilton. Written by a famed historical biographer, the book takes you on the ride of Hamilton’s life. Starting with his challenging younger years and the road to the treasury, you are amazed by all the obstacles Hamilton faced and overcame in his 47 years alive. This is the perfect biography for your young reader, or even their parent, interested in learning the backstory of Hamilton and why he is more than just the man on the $10 bill.

When looking at history, it is always important to consider how we can learn from our mistakes. That’s why we want to never leave any parent unprepared! With the McGruff Safe Kit, you can start taking steps to help protecting your family. Request yours today!

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