Cover Image: What Does It Mean to Be American?

What Does It Mean to Be American?

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

I wanted to love this book. The illustrations are charming the sentiment of the book is sweet. This book shares the idea of the “American Dream” with children- allowing them to believe that being happy is an opportunity and working hard is what one does to reach their goals. There are moments in the book I really appreciate, but I just didn’t love it. I would read this to my students and also include some other books about the history of our country and the lives of marginalized Americans.

Was this review helpful?

We love the “What Does it Mean to be Kind?” Book at our house, so I knew I had to request the “What Does it Mean to be American?” book, too! This is a perfect book to introduce kids to the idea of equality, trying your best, supporting others, and diversity. It brings the book to a level that kids can understand, but at the end, explains things in more detail. For example, it talks about famous people who worked hard (Walt Disney, Susan B. Anthony, etc.) and gives examples of what they do.

It’s an inspiring book, good for kids starting at age 4-5, up through third grade or so. It’s an easy read, and I liked that it gave examples at the end. Honestly, I think there are some adults who should read this book, too!

4/5 stars from me!

Was this review helpful?

This book fills a void in Americana books for younger children. It expounds on the character traits and values that have defined the United States since its founding in kid-friendly text and illustrations. And as a bonus, includes excerpts from historical documents and examples of Americans who have exemplified those traits in the back of the book.


Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for providing a digital arc.

Was this review helpful?

This is an incredibly thoughtful and sweet, nonpartisan take on what it really means to be an American. It's not about the politics or the fireworks and apple pie, it's about holding on to those old (and, too often, forgotten) ideas that everyone deserves to be treated equally and with fairness and kindness. I think this is a great nonfiction read for anyone with small children, regardless of background, and could be a great asset in teaching the little ones about empathy and equality.

Was this review helpful?

I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this book, especially in this day and age. I was pleasantly surprised at how wonderful and caring this story was. What does it mean to be an American? It's not as black and white (or red, white, and blue) as you might think. It's about being accepting of every person around you, letting people in, and helping them when they need it. It's written for the younger kids as well as the older ones. We see what America stands for with the colorful and diverse illustrations before being given a more detailed history near the back of the book. This is an important book good for all ages.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this story and it's illustrations. America is so much more than this or that, and DiOrio and Yoran captured that perfectly. Mata's illustrations capture all the diversity that the US has to offer. Being an American is more than where one was born, it is about dreams and helping everyone reach for the stars. I think the questions and expanded discussion at the end of the book makes it a perfect addition to both home and school.

Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy.

Was this review helpful?

This book for younger children (Pre-K through grade 3 or so) looks to the values that ideally Americans share. With its appealing, multi-cultural illustrations and simple text, this book talks about what Americans aspire to be in terms of character and ways of behaving. It is a story that encourages children to think about what is important and the ways in which this includes valuing both oneself and others. A nice addition for school libraries.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. The views are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Excellent storybook. Kids will enjoy this simple to understand patriotic book. It speaks towards the importance of accepting and embracing our differences, honoring those that serve and protect us and cherishing our right to be different. The pictures represent our changing demographics and teach children what it means to live in a country surrounded by diversity. I will definitely buy this for my son.
Thank you Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

This is a wonderful educational title defining what it means to be an American. No matter how divided our country is at the moment, as Americans we still share many common beliefs and dreams.
This would make a great addition to a classroom or for a homeschooling family. I could see using this title in July when I focus more crafts and stories on patriotism.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, Little Pickle Press and NetGalley for this ARC, my opinions are my own.
LanaLcole@yahoo,com

Was this review helpful?