7 Fun and Engaging Books About U.S. Presidents for Tweens
by Dena McMurdie
The other day, I was talking to a friend that moved to the United States as an adult. I asked her how she learned American history and she replied, “From reading children’s books.” I started laughing because that was how I learned it, too.
When I came to the United States from Canada as an adult, I had almost zero knowledge of American history or its presidents. That changed as my kids got older and started asking questions. Together, we read books about America’s complex history, its wars, and its leaders. Names that previously meant nothing to us became attached to the stories, events, and accomplishments of each president we read about. From their childhood adventures to the White House and beyond, my kids and I explored the lives of the American presidents with the help of some fantastic books.
Whether your child wants to learn more about our country’s leaders or you just want to brush up on your facts, reading children’s books about U.S. presidents is a fun and enjoyable way to do it. This reading list will help you get started.
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Kid Presidents: True Tales of Childhood from America's Presidents
Available from:My kids have read and re-read this collection of short childhood biographies of America's presidents. With full-color illustrations and captivating stories throughout the book, it's not hard to see why it's a favorite of young readers. Every president was once a child, and they dealt with siblings, bullies, and broken bones just like you and me.
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The Presidents Visual Encyclopedia
Available from:When you want to dive into the facts about the presidents, their wives, and major events in American history, this encyclopedia is the perfect resource. With dozens of entries, photographs, and facts, kids can explore the lives of every American president in this incredible reference book.
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Who HQ 3-Book Collection: Presidents
Available from:Chances are, your kids are already familiar with the popular Who Was? series. This collection features easy-to-read biographies of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln - three of the most important presidents in American history. With illustrations throughout the books, these biographies are both enjoyable and educational.
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Where Do Presidents Come From?
If your kids like graphic novels and humor, they'll love this funny book about American presidents. Kids will have so much fun reading the fun facts, jokes, and information, they won't even realize it's an educational book.
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Mad Libs for President
Available from:Let your silly side out with this hilarious activity book. Fill in the blanks of 21 short stories about elections, then read them aloud. Your kids will be in stitches as they recite their goofy creations.
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White House Kids
Available from:Whether they're the children of the president or of someone who works there, the White House has been home to many children over the last two centuries. Readers will learn what the White House offers its residents (like indoor bowling and full-time chefs), the weird rules of the house, and how the kids that live there spend their time.
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George Washington's Secret Six: Young Readers Adaptation
Available from:While your kids probably aren't ready to binge-watch the television series Turn, they'll go nuts over the story of George Washington's spy ring during the American Revolutionary War. Specifically adapted for young readers, this book takes you to the heart of the action and reveals the brilliant strategies George Washington used to win the war
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