Five Picture Books for Presidents Day

When Washington Crossed the Delaware by Lynne Cheney with paintings by Peter M. Fiore
We love this book at our house. The paintings are beautiful and the text is both informational and inspiring. I think the historical quotes that Mrs. Cheney chose to include really bring a personal element to the story and contribute to its depth. This is one of those books that the patriot in me has a hard time reading without getting a little misty-eyed.

So You Want to Be President? by Judith St. George and illustrated by David Small
I love trivia and random facts. Did you know George H. W. Bush hates broccoli or that  William Taft had to have a special bathtub because he was so big? This book is full of interesting facts and humorous illustrations about all of the US presidents. It's a fun read and chances are your kids will like it too.

 Abraham Lincoln by Ingri and Edgar Parin D'Aulaire
Written in 1939, Abraham Lincoln was the Caldecott Medal winner for 1940 . It is written with young children in mind and covers the majority of Lincoln's life (but does not include his assasination) with special emphasis on his childhood. By today's standards some might consider it dated, but I think it is a sweet introduction for young readers to one of my personal heroes.

George vs. George: The American Revolution As Seen from Both Sides by Rosalyn Schanzer
The story of George Washington and King George is brought to life with clear and engaging text and beautiful, vibrant illustrations. George vs. George compares and contrasts the lives and times of these two powerful Revoutionary War leaders.  Schanzer does a great job of keeping the information interesting and accessible as well as presenting a fair and balanced view of both sides of the story.

Abe Lincoln's Dream by Lane Smith
From the illustrator of The Stinky Cheese Man comes this whimsical
story about a little girl visiting the White House who meets Lincoln's ghost. They go on a journey together swapping cheesy jokes and ultimately answering some of Lincoln's troubled questions about the state of the union. Abe Lincoln's Dream is filled with quirky illustrations and inspired by interesting bits of trivia and true stories and would be a fun and light addition to your President's Day reads. You can hear an interview with the author here.