AMERICA: A Patriotic Primer
by Lynne Cheney
illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 0689851928
Ages 4-8
40 pages

This first thing you notice about this magnificent primer is the cover inspired by Joe Rosenthal's famous photograph of the heroic flag raising at Iwo Jima during World War II. Unlike the war weary faces of those courageous marines, the children are brimming with joy, secure in the knowledge that the flag they are planting will remain standing for all to enjoy in generations to come. And perhaps joy best describes how we all should feel when we think of the many freedoms that we have by being Americans --- joy, pride, and respect for the history of our country and the people who helped build it.

Lynne Cheney and Robin Glasser have created a wonderful opportunity for parents and teachers to share an understanding of America's heritage with their children through the simple words and remarkable illustrations of AMERICA: A Patriotic Primer. Based on Mrs. Cheney's idea of an alphabetical step through history, each of the 26 letters represents people or ideas that shaped the direction of our nation. Each alphabetical page also contains quotations, mural-like drawings and additional bits of information relating to a topic. These all serve to provide an excellent opportunity for children and adults to interact in discussing the meaning of all they see and read in the colorful pages.

Although the format is built around the basic ABC book, AMERICA is not just for the youngest children in the family --- it contains content suitable for a wide range of ages. Beginners can enjoy learning about some basics like the first Thanksgiving. Older children can be inspired by the accomplishments of Thomas Jefferson, Martin Luther King, Jr, and Susan B. Anthony. The well designed material and charming illustrations make AMERICA a book the family can learn from and enjoy for many years to come.

   --- Reviewed by Ann Bruns (BkPageWC@aol.com)

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