I’ve been slowly growing our 4th of July book collection, and this year I added what are probably my very favorite books. Today I’m sharing what I think are MUST-HAVE 4th of July picture books for your family to enjoy this summer, along with a simple writing prompt for your young reader. It’s a fun way to drive home the things they may have learned about why celebrating the 4th of July is special and to get them thinking about why they love their country.
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Must Have 4th of July Picture Books
America, Why I Love Her (Little Duke Series) by John Wayne: Derived from a patriotic Grammy-nominated spoken word album recorded by “The Duke” in 1973. Now, we can join “Little Duke” on his journey through this great land and learn about true American values of love, freedom, compassion, honesty, family, unity, hope, liberty & justice, honor and peace.
Gingerbread for Liberty!: How a German Baker Helped Win the American Revolution by Mara Rockliff: Christopher Ludwick was a German-born American patriot with a big heart and a talent for baking. When cries of “Revolution!” began, Christopher was determined to help General George Washington and his hungry troops. Not with muskets or cannons, but with gingerbread!
I Pledge Allegiance by Pat Mora: Libby’s great aunt, Lobo, is from Mexico, but the United States has been her home for many years, and she wants to become a U.S. citizen. At the end of the week, Lobo will say the Pledge of Allegiance at a special ceremony. Libby is also learning the Pledge this week, at school—at the end of the week, she will stand up in front of everyone and lead the class in the Pledge. Libby and Lobo practice together—asking questions and sharing stories and memories—until they both stand tall and proud, with their hands over their hearts.
Our Flag Was Still There: The True Story of Mary Pickersgill and the Star-Spangled Banner by Jessie Hartland: The story of this giant flag begins in 1812 and stars a major on the eve of battle, a seamstress and her mighty helpers, and a poet named Francis Scott Key. This isn’t just the story of one flag. It’s the story of “The Star Spangled-Banner,” a poem that became our national anthem, too.
I hope you enjoy your 4th of July reading! To help my little one recall what he’s learned to love about his country I created this writing prompt and provided a free download for you to enjoy.
xo, Lauren