Independence Day: The Fourth of July, 2003
The following reviews were presented in our 2003 Independence Day feature.
Reviews
Apple Pie 4th of July
Janet S. Wong
Illustrated by Margaret Chodos-Irvine
In a lyrical look at a young Chinese-American girl's 4th of July in her family's convenience store, Wong paints a unique picture of the evolving diversity in U.S. culture. On a day that celebrates the independence of our nation, we mostly see patriotic portrayals of our Federalist period when European Americans and European culture dominated our society. This book shows that this holiday can be celebrated in a diversity of ways, including a trip through a Chinese buffet after a parade. The young girl doubts anyone will want Chinese food on such an American holiday, but her father points out that fireworks are Chinese. Folks do eventually come to enjoy their Chinese food. After the store closes, the family goes up to the roof to watch the fireworks and eat apple pie. This 4th of July book celebrates the diversity that is the true spirit of the freedom we are celebrating on Independence Day. 2002, Harcourt, Ages 3 to 7, $16.00. Reviewer: Alexandria LaFaye
ISBN: 015202543X
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2002; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Choices, 2003; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2002; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
2x2 Reading List, 2003; Texas
Fourth of July Fireworks
Patrick Merrick
With simple text and excellent illustrations, this book describes our Independence Day holiday and its characteristic colorful flashes of light known as fireworks. The beginning chapter sets the tone and following chapters identify the holiday's meaning, how the holiday began, and how it is celebrated with fireworks. The history, craft and mechanics of fireworks are also discussed. Safety considerations for fireworks complete this brief, information book. The book is one of a nonfiction series but it may also be read as a story. Each page of text is paired with an appropriate illustration, primarily color photographs. A table of contents, a glossary and an index are included. The book will augment nicely studies of U.S. history and holiday symbols. 2000, The Child's World, Ages 5 to 8, $22.79. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter
ISBN: 156766640X
Fourth of July Fireworks
Patrick Merrick
Let's celebrate Independence Day with a bang! Start this fun day with a parade, ball game, picnic, or party while the sun is shining. When the sun sets and all is quiet and dark--Pop, Bam, Boom--colorful lights explode in the sky. Every Fourth of July Americans celebrate, remembering the same day in 1776 when American colonists set forth the Declaration of Independence, breaking away from England to form a free country. Fireworks, or pyrotechnics, originated in China and are used all over the world to celebrate special occasions. Now they are our best-known Forth of July tradition. Find out more about the beautiful but dangerous workings of that magnificent combination of gunpowder, chemicals and fire. Review the glossary and index at the back of the book to reinforce new words and concepts. Marvel at the beautiful photographs that will remind you of fireworks past and make you look forward to the next big celebration. Part of the "Holiday Symbols" series. 2000, The Child's World, Ages 6 to 10, $22.79. Reviewer: Barbara Kennedy
ISBN: 156766640X
Fourth of July, Sparkly Sky
Joan Holub
Illustrated by Amanda Haley
If you are looking for a board book that will be appropriate for celebrating America's birthday then this one will do the trick. It is filled with red, white and blue and it highlights many of the activities that occur on the 4th of July. There may be picnics with lots of great activities and food like barbecue and apple pie. Towns and cites may have parades with floats and marching bands. When evening comes most places celebrate with a display of fireworks that usually draw plenty of oohs and ahs. Every page of this board book is filled with glitter that is sometimes difficult to see, but it does lend a tactile element to the book. 2003, Little Simon/Simon & Schuster, Ages 6 mo. to 3, $4.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-85718-7
God Bless America
Words and Music by Irving Berlin
Illustrations by Lynn Munsinger
With Flag Day and the Fourth of July holidays in mind, this book, which comes with a CD, may be a perfect family gift. The much beloved song introduced in 1938 is still one that people love to sing especially when America faces tragedies. The words may not be completely familiar so it is wonderful to have them presented in print and also on a CD with the song sung by Barbara Streisand (I always think of Kate Smith-so that reveals my age). The end papers by Munsinger show many famous places in the US and do indeed take us from shore to shore across this magnificent and vast country. Her kid friendly illustrations feature bear family raising their flag and waving them as they drive from New York to Washington DC and visit the prairies and mountains only to happily return home. The actual recording was made in 1992. The jacket copy notes that the Berlin estate donates all royalties from the song to the God Bless America Fund to benefit America's youth. 2002, HarperCollins, Ages 3 to 7, $15.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-06-009788-4
Happy Birthday, America
Mary Pope Osborne
Illustrations by Peter Catalanotto
"On the Fourth of July, Mom, Dad, Katie, Grandpa, Grandma, Aunt Beth, baby Jess, Bud the dog and I go to Memorial Park." The family spends the day celebrating the Fourth of July in time-honored ways. The young boy sells popcorn and pizza at the Pee Wee Football booth. Grandma sells raffle tickets for the American Legion. A pet parade, face painting, the Kiwani's penny pitch, balloons, firemen, ice cream and barbecued chicken cooked by the Knights of Columbus fill the day. And in the evening a blanket is spread under the stars where everyone sits to listen to the school band playing patriotic tunes and to a reading of the Declaration of Independence. As the last line of The Star Spangled Banner is sung the fireworks go off, burst and rain down "near the flag that is still there." This tale hints of earlier times when small town celebrations were, perhaps, more common than they are today. Grandparents, parents and small town kids may recognize this sort of old fashioned celebration, but it is unlikely to be familiar to those who live in today's cities and suburbs. Regrettably this book lacks the sizzle and excitement of a Fourth of July celebration. And illustrations that ought to sparkle don't. The colors are muddy and the pictures disconcertingly out of focus. The Fourth of July deserves better than this. 2003, Roaring Brook Press/The Millbrook Press, Ages 4 to 7, $22.90. Reviewer: Anita Barnes Lowen
ISBN: 0-7613-2761-4
ISBN: 0-7613-1675-2
Hats Off for the Fourth of July!
Harriet Ziefert
Illustrated by Gustaf Miller
Almost since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the Fourth of July has elicited joyous--and sometimes wild and wooly--celebrations. While assuming rather than stating the significance of this patriotic holiday, Ziefert's rhymed picture book catches its mood very well, indeed. She chooses to portray it through the small-town parade that most of us grew up with, catching the flavor through the repetitive rhyme of "music and drum." But it's illustrator Miller who sets this particular parade in his old hometown of Chatham, Massachusetts, giving the floats the zest of Minutemen and the sea. The parade is fun, but Miller excels in his endpaper illustrations of main street Chatham at morning and night, with a telltale lighthouse in the distance. This is a good starter book for involving preschoolers in the concept of American history. 2000, Viking, Ages 4 to 7, $15.99. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0670891185
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Independence Day
Helen Frost
As the opening note to parents and teachers states--the "National Holidays" series supports national social studies standards related to understanding events that celebrate the values and principles of American democracy. That said, this book successfully explains why and how we celebrate Independence Day. Full-color illustrations depict a parade, a family picnic and fireworks, which are popular ways of celebrating the holiday that honors the founding of the United States. The concluding pages contain a short glossary, a few books and Internet sites and a word list/index. 2000, Pebble Books/Capstone, Ages 4 to 7, $13.25. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0736805427
Independence Day
David F. Marx
What is Independence Day and why do we celebrate? Marx, in this "Rookie Read-about Holidays," explains that July Fourth is the birthday of the United States. Many years ago the people who lived here were part of England, but they wanted to be free. Unfortunately, Marx never explains why they wanted freedom. The book then jumps to the ways that Independence Day is celebrated--pancake breakfasts, picnic, parades, fireworks and a recurring display of the red, white and blue that make up the American flag. The pictures are very good and one of the cake decorated as an American flag is particularly attractive. There is a five-word picture glossary and an index. This is a book that will need to have the stage set better in order to understand this holiday. 2001, Children's Press, Ages 5 to 7, $19.00 and $5.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0516222325
Independence Day: Birthday of the United States
Elaine Landau
What is America's birthday all about? Why do we celebrate on July 4th? This wonderfully informative book provides answers to these questions and more about Independence Day. With details about America's beginning, the book combines the story with famous historic symbols, pictures and paintings. It also discusses the various ways to celebrate Independence Day and includes a suggested project and recipe for participating in the events. Finally, the book ends with a glossary, a bibliography and Internet addresses for further study. This is a great resource for young Americans just learning about our nation's history. Part of the "Finding Out about Holidays" series. 2001, Enslow, Ages 7 to 9, $18.95. Reviewer: Sheree Van Vreede
ISBN: 0766015718
Uncle Chente's Picnic
Diane Gonzales Bertrand
Illustrations by Pauline Rodriguez Howard
The Crdenas family makes great plans for a family picnic on July 4th when their truck-driving uncle is coming to visit. They prepare food, decorate the table and the backyard, and plan to watch the fireworks on TV. But plans must change. First a bad thunderstorm drives them from the yard, then lightning hits a transformer and the electricity fails. But they have a great time anyhow, helped by Uncle Chente's stories and the warmth of family togetherness. Howard's full-page scenes and vignettes on the facing dual-language text page use thin strokes of color to build forms and provide a sense of design unity, echoing that of the family. There is a sense of memory in the slight haziness of the texture. 2001, Piata Books/Arte Pblico Press, Ages 4 to 8, $14.95. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 1558853375
ISBN: 1558853383
Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence
Michael Burgan
Learning about American history is fun with this new title from the "We the People" series. This volume introduces young readers to the events leading up to the approval of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The author examines the political situation in America during the 1760s and 1770s and discusses the taxation debate, the Boston Tea Party, the First Continental Congress, the battles at Lexington and Concord, the Second Continental Congress, Thomas Jefferson's drafts of the declaration, the vote for independence and the ensuing celebration. Written in simple language, this introductory text contains a wealth of visual materials including sketches, maps, paintings, portraits, and reproductions of documents, including the original Declaration of Independence. This well-written and well-documented presentation also contains a glossary, a "Did You Know?" section, a timeline of important dates, a list of important people, a list of recommended books and web sites, a collection of useful addresses, and an index. 2001, Compass Point Books, Ages 9 to 12, $21.26. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0756500427
The Declaration of Independence
Sam Fink
The entire text of the declaration is separated into phrases, each accompanied by a drawing intended to help explain the meaning of the words. Fink often makes his point with a humorous approach but always maintains a reverence for the document. Some of the illustrations seem to take on the nature of political cartoons, and indeed could lead to a discussion of this type of editorial. The back pages contain the uninterrupted text of the Declaration of Independence, a chronology of events leading to the decision to separate from England, a helpful glossary, selected bibliography, books for further reading, and an index. There are three major websites: The National Archives and Records Administration, Library of Congress, and Independence Hall Association which can all enhance the learning process. It is a welcome addition to collections on colonial and revolutionary American history. Most of all, this is a book to be shared and read aloud by families. Make it a tradition to read it together every July 4th. 2002, Scholastic, Ages 8 to 15, $19.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0439407001
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002; Children's Literature; United States
Notable Children's Books, 2003; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, October 2002; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2002; Cahners; United States
The Declaration of Independence
Lora Polack Oberle
The first fact we learn about the nation's declaration of independence is that its signers were aristocrats in powdered wigs who met in broad daylight, not like revolutionaries we hear about today who must often meet in secret. Yet the men who planned independence in 1775 "risked their lives... and challenged a powerful nation to help found their own." In addition to conveying the atmosphere of the moments surrounding the Declaration of Independence, there is a healthy discussion of the differences of opinion about independence among colonists and even within families. We also learn fun bits of trivia that will appeal to young readers. Massachusetts delegate Samuel Adams "often wore the same suit and it usually looked rumpled. Before he went to the First Continental Congress, his friends bought him a new suit. They did not want him to embarrass their colony." Thomas Paine used the money from the sale of his famous booklet Common Sense to buy mittens for American soldiers. The series includes titles on the battles of Yorktown, Lexington and Concord, the Boston massacre and tea party and the U.S. Constitution. Each volume is indexed, with a list of Internet sites, places of interest, glossary and timeline. The text is clear and concise, laid out with numerous maps, etchings and other illustrations. This is an excellent early introduction to America's beginnings and perfect as well for older students at lower reading levels. Part of the "Let Freedom Ring" series. 2002, Capstone Press, Ages 10 to 15, $22.60. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0736810951
The Declaration of Independence
Lora Polack Oberle
A timeline in this book spans the American historical period from 1775 to 1783. However, most attention is given to the steps leading up to the writing of the Declaration of Independence and its signing in Philadelphia. References are made to John Hancock, Samuel Adams, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Paine and John Adams as well as others who stepped up to meet the challenge of gaining independence from a stifling British government. Space is given to the explanation of the stand of the individual colonies on this issue. In addition, the Declaration of Independence is examined in regards to its contents and different sections. A complete understanding of this significant document is offered through the addition of a timeline, map, glossary and other available resources. Vocabulary words are aided by contextual explanations that increase the ease of reading this non-fiction, high interest book. This book is a must, along with others in the "Let Freedom Ring" series for schools wishing to adequately cover early historical America. 2002, Bridgestone Books/Capstone Press, Ages 10 to 18, $22.60. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury
ISBN: 0736810951
Give Me Liberty!: The Story of the Declaration of Independence
Russell Freedman
Russell Freedman is a national treasure. His photoessays give us an intimate glimpse into historic events and people. Beginning with the Boston Tea Party, there is a driving beat that compels the reader to pursue this adventure. Excellent reproductions of paintings, many in color, and other visuals make each chapter appealing and accessible. From the song heard in Boston taverns--"Rally, Mohawks! Bring your axes,/ and tell King George we'll pay no taxes/ on his foreign tea..." to the eloquent words, "We hold these truths to be self-evident...," that pace never slows. This is a well-designed, rich book that includes a chronology of events and a selected bibliography. 2000, Holiday House, Ages 11 up, $24.95. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
ISBN: 0823414485
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2001; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2000; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2001; Children's Literature; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2001; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, October 2000; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2000; Cahners; United States
Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Teachers' Choices, 2001; International Reading Association; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Utah Children's Book Awards, 2003; Utah
Give Me Liberty!: The Story of the Declaration of Independence
Russell Freedman
In these times when principles are questioned more than upheld, it is illuminating to return to our country's beginnings. Award-winning nonfiction writer, Russell Freedman does just that, and Freedman tells history like a story. His descriptions, well-selected quotations, and immediacy of style transport readers back in time. Freedman describes the forefathers through their actions, eccentricities and personalities. Men like Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson are introduced in the context of the events leading to, during and after the Revolutionary War when great men were searching for principles to define the new country. 2000, Holiday House, Ages 9 up, $24.95. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0823414485
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2001; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2000; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2001; Children's Literature; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2001; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, October 2000; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2000; Cahners; United States
Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Teachers' Choices, 2001; International Reading Association; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Utah Children's Book Awards, 2003; Utah
Words That Built A Nation
Marilyn Miller
From the Mayflower Compact and Patrick Henry's speech to the Second Virginia Convention to Ronald Reagan's farewell and Hilary Rodham Clinton's speech to the UN's Conference on Women, this book presents thirty-nine contemporary documents intended to illuminate such areas as civil rights, immigration, and the environment. Each segment is presented with a short note explaining the context of the speech or document followed by the text, a short paragraph about the author, and an interesting "response" that describe the consequences or events that followed. While many of these are available elsewhere, it is convenient to have segments from the Seneca Falls Convention, the Emancipation Proclamation, Chief Joseph's speech, the Monroe Doctrine, Cesar Chavez's speech to striking grape workers, and Shirley Chisholm's "I'd Rather Be Black Than Female" in one thematic place. Illustrated with photographs, etchings, and other artwork, the collection features an index and addresses of three archival websites. 1999, Scholastic, Ages 8 to 14, $18.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 059029881X
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2000; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, Fourteenth Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
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Added 07/01/03
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