O, Say Can You See?

Title: O, Say Can You See: America's Symbols, Landmarks, and Inspiring Words
Author: Sheila Keenan

Illustrator: Ann Boyajian
Type: Non-Fiction
Approximate Interest Level: 5th-12th
Publisher: Scholastic

Date of Publication: 2004
ISBN: 978-0439424509

Synopsis: A nonfiction compilation of the important places, interesting objects, inspiring words, and holidays that contribute to, or comprise American culture.  Each item is explained in detail using student-friendly language and illustrations.  The book includes a glossary, an index, and suggestions for further reading.

Lesson Plan link

Possible Teaching Points: 1) American symbols, 2) American history, 3) American holidays

America: A Patriotic Primer

Title: America: A Patriotic Primer
Author: Lynne Cheney

Illustrator: Robin Preiss Glasser
Type: Non-Fiction
Approximate Interest Level: 3rd-8th
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Date of Publication: 2002
ISBN: 978-0689851926

Synopsis: An alphabet book with American symbols, history, and trivia for each letter.  A wide range of topics are covered including, but not limited to, the Constitution, American heroes, Native Americans, rights, suffrage, and patriotism.

Lesson plan links

Possible Teaching Points: 1) civics, 2) American history, 3) American symbols 

Lady Liberty: A Biography

Title: Lady Liberty: A Biography
Author: Doreen Rappaport

Illustrator: Matt Tavares
Type: Non-Fiction
Approximate Interest Level: 2nd-12th
Publisher: Candlewick Press

Date of Publication: 2008
ISBN: 978-0-7636-2530-6

Synopsis: Each two-page spread in this book is devoted to a different person involved in the creation and erection of the Statue of Liberty.  People include: Edouard DeLaboulaye, Auguste Bartholdi, Marie Simon, Gustave Eiffel, Emma Lazarus, Charles P. Stone, Joseph Pulitzer, Florence DeForeest,  and Jose Marti.  The book provides a timeline of events, and links to more information about the Statue of Liberty. 

Lesson plan link

Possible Teaching Points: 1) Statue of Liberty, 2) American symbols, 3) immigration