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George Did It
Everyone wanted George Washington to be the president. He was responsible, led the army in a fight against the British, and helped write the Constitution. But being the president is a very important job, and George was too nervous. So, to everyone’s surprise, he said no! However, George had many supporters, and with the help of the cheering crowds and loyal advisers and dignitaries, George realized that he didn’t have time to think about how nervous he was, he just had to do his job. With little-known facts and a bit of humor, Suzanne Tripp Jurmain gives readers a glimpse into the more personal side of the first president of the United States.
40 pages, Paperback
First published December 29, 2005
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 10, 2009
I believe this book is written to inspire everyone that reads it! Rather than the usual books about presidents, this book focuses on George Washington and his fears about becoming president. It portrays George Washington in a very personable way with insecurities and doubts. But regardless of these things, George overcomes and after each accomplishment the book writes "George Did It!"
October 3, 2019
Leaders instill in their people a hope for success and a belief in themselves. Positive leaders empower people to accomplish their goals.
If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.
The true mark of a leader is the willingness to stick with a bold course of action.
A good objective of leadership is to help those who are doing poorly to do well and to help those who are doing well to do even better.
TRAVELED TO // Virginia & New York
MET ALONG THE WAY // George Washington, Martha Washington & The New American Goverment
December 1, 2018
George Did It by Suzanne Jurmain
12/1/18
5/5
Nonfiction: Biography, Grades 3-5
Another nonfiction book on George Washington! I usually do not enjoy reading nonfiction texts, however, this children's book was a great find! I learned new things about George Washington and his life. I think that this book would be a great tool to teach a lesson on George Washington to middle elementary students. I give it 5 stars!
12/1/18
5/5
Nonfiction: Biography, Grades 3-5
Another nonfiction book on George Washington! I usually do not enjoy reading nonfiction texts, however, this children's book was a great find! I learned new things about George Washington and his life. I think that this book would be a great tool to teach a lesson on George Washington to middle elementary students. I give it 5 stars!
December 23, 2017
"... whenever a big, important job had to be done, Americans asked George to do it."
An interesting account of Washington's reluctance to take on the highest position in the United States. Though brave in battle, George Washington worried about being president. Such uncertainty, such pressure.
It's a shame more politicians don't feel the pressure to do a good job for all Americans
An interesting account of Washington's reluctance to take on the highest position in the United States. Though brave in battle, George Washington worried about being president. Such uncertainty, such pressure.
It's a shame more politicians don't feel the pressure to do a good job for all Americans
January 29, 2019
I love the illustrations and the narritive-like text of this nonfiction. It makes a great read-aloud to K-2nd or read alone for grades 2-4. I really liked the focus on Washington's work ethic and reluctance to lead the nation. I do wish there was more information on his early life and friendships.
September 9, 2017
Wonderful, funny illustrations. Full of information. For example, George Washington couldn't afford to make the trip to New York City the election. He had to borrow the money from a neighbor.
February 1, 2021
This was a great read aloud (in two sittings) for my five year old.
February 20, 2025
George Washington is chosen as president. This picture book gives details about the weeks and days leading up to his inauguration. I quite enjoy Suzanne Jurmain's prose.
November 25, 2014
George Did It, by Suzanne Jurmain and Larry Day, is historical yet humorous story about how George Washington initially became president of the United States and his journey to Federal Hall in order to be inaugurated. While George Washington has almost been labeled as a mythological figure in American history, Jurmain adds a unique element to this story by revealing Washington’s more human side since his accomplishments were truly admirable in an ordinary citizen type of way. Throughout the story, Jurmain portrays Washington as both anxious and nervous to be the first president of the United States. While most readers can think of a time that they felt nervous about doing something, it sometimes forgetful to imagine that our country’s first forefather did as well at one point. In George Did It, Washington is characterized as being our most celebrated leader because it was evident from his days of being commander-in-chief of the Colonial Army that he could lead the United States in a positive direction.
What makes this story so motivating and special is that it can become particularly hard for children, even adults for that matter, to be able to relate on a personal level with influential leaders in history. However, Jurmain does the complete opposite of this by engaging the audience in a way that connects them to Washington through shared emotion. In addition, the author presents the factual information in an interesting way which keeps the interest of the readers by viewing history in an amusing light. What can appear to be a boring book for children who are not particularly fond of reading, Jurmain presents the style and tone that is not overly serious for the intended audience. Day comes into the picture by adding a brilliant touch of inspiration with cartoon-like illustrations that carry plenty of humor even on its own! George Did It is a perfect picture book to incorporate in the classroom for an introduction on Presidents or about the history of the United States.
What makes this story so motivating and special is that it can become particularly hard for children, even adults for that matter, to be able to relate on a personal level with influential leaders in history. However, Jurmain does the complete opposite of this by engaging the audience in a way that connects them to Washington through shared emotion. In addition, the author presents the factual information in an interesting way which keeps the interest of the readers by viewing history in an amusing light. What can appear to be a boring book for children who are not particularly fond of reading, Jurmain presents the style and tone that is not overly serious for the intended audience. Day comes into the picture by adding a brilliant touch of inspiration with cartoon-like illustrations that carry plenty of humor even on its own! George Did It is a perfect picture book to incorporate in the classroom for an introduction on Presidents or about the history of the United States.
November 4, 2010
We can all remember a time when we felt nervous about doing something. What we didn't realize is that one of our country's forefathers at one time felt like that too. George Washington felt nervous about being the president, in fact it was a job he didn't want to have. In this highly informative book the reader takes goes on the journey of George Washington's presidency. Before the United States was even considered to be the United States, whenever something needed to be done the people went to George Washington. He was the commander-in-chief of the Colonial Army, he helped trained the soldiers to fight in the war, and he helped write the Constitution. However when they asked him to be president, he said no. After much convincing and the American people insisting on him being president George agreed to run. Unfortunately for him, fortunately for the newly formed U.S.A, George ran unopposed and won. And as they say the rest is history, George overcame his nerves and became one of our countries most celebrated leaders.
It is often hard for children, let alone adults, to relate to influential people in history let alone our country's first president However in this fictionalized true story the reader feels a connection to George Washington through a shared emotion. This book provides a wonderful history lesson for students on the first election, and how much the process has changed. It is appropriate as a read aloud for students in 1st grade and above.
It is often hard for children, let alone adults, to relate to influential people in history let alone our country's first president However in this fictionalized true story the reader feels a connection to George Washington through a shared emotion. This book provides a wonderful history lesson for students on the first election, and how much the process has changed. It is appropriate as a read aloud for students in 1st grade and above.
November 19, 2014
George Washington did a great number of very challenging things. He agreed to lead the rough and ready so-called Colonial Army against the British in an effort to win American independence from the British crown. Not only did he lead his untrained and unruly troops but he managed to win the war. One thing that George did not agree to do – at first – was to be named the president of this new country of his. Alas for poor George, his own feelings and wishes went by the wayside and with great reluctance George agreed to run in the presidential election. He won of course and a very unhappy man left his life in Virginia to begin his new job in New York City.
Young readers will be astonished to discover that the great and famous George Washington did not want to be the president and that he took on the job very reluctantly. They will come to appreciate what a true patriot this good man was for not only did he have to give up the life he craved, but he also has to take up a lifestyle that he did not like at all. He was a simple man with simple tastes and all the pomp and ceremony that went with being the president did not suit him. In addition to learning about George’s life it is fascinating to learn what the early days of the presidency were like and how new and unsure everything was at that time.
Young readers will be astonished to discover that the great and famous George Washington did not want to be the president and that he took on the job very reluctantly. They will come to appreciate what a true patriot this good man was for not only did he have to give up the life he craved, but he also has to take up a lifestyle that he did not like at all. He was a simple man with simple tastes and all the pomp and ceremony that went with being the president did not suit him. In addition to learning about George’s life it is fascinating to learn what the early days of the presidency were like and how new and unsure everything was at that time.
June 6, 2008
George Washington is an almost mythological figure in American history, but Jurmain has revealed his more human side here making his accomplishments seem even more admirable because they were done by "a plain, ordinary citizen like everybody else." Jurmain's focus is on exploring how Washington was a reluctant President who felt anxious over the huge responsibility the job entailed. The text has plenty of humor, but the illustrations, by Larry Day, carry plenty of humor on their own; I particularly enjoyed the illustration of Washington leaving the false teeth shop. Jurmain includes selected bibliographical references and a brief introduction. Although the length of the text limits it to a read-aloud audience of 2nd grade and up, George Did It would be a great introduction to a unit on Presidents or the formation of the United States. It could also be paired with John, Paul, George, and Ben by Lane Smith for a President's Day or Fourth of July storytime for older kids.
December 11, 2012
Genre: Junior book/Biographical
Summary: This book is the story about how George Washington came to be the first president of the United States. Through cartoon drawings and funny anecdotes the author tells the interesting history of the unsure man behind the prestigious portrait on our one dollar bill.
Critiques:
A. Tone and style
B. Factual information is given in a unique way that hooks the readers and makes them view history is a new amusing light. The tone is not overly serious and the style sets the mood that the author and reader are neighbors just chitchatting about ol' George. The comical illustration further add to the entertaining mood.
C. "In 1789, almost everyone in the country wanted George Washington to be the first president of the United states. Everyone-except George." The tone of the opening passages are light and engaging.
Curriculum connection: This would be a great book to incorporate with a social studies lesson about Important historical Americans or presidents.
Summary: This book is the story about how George Washington came to be the first president of the United States. Through cartoon drawings and funny anecdotes the author tells the interesting history of the unsure man behind the prestigious portrait on our one dollar bill.
Critiques:
A. Tone and style
B. Factual information is given in a unique way that hooks the readers and makes them view history is a new amusing light. The tone is not overly serious and the style sets the mood that the author and reader are neighbors just chitchatting about ol' George. The comical illustration further add to the entertaining mood.
C. "In 1789, almost everyone in the country wanted George Washington to be the first president of the United states. Everyone-except George." The tone of the opening passages are light and engaging.
Curriculum connection: This would be a great book to incorporate with a social studies lesson about Important historical Americans or presidents.
March 16, 2015
George Did it is a picture book about the life of George Washington. It takes the reader through the accomplishments throughout George Washington's life and how he wanted to do certain things like be commander-in-chief of the army in the colonies and how he wanted to be a part of the signing of the Constitution but he was nervous when asked to be President. The American people wanted George Washington to be the first president but he said "No thank you". He did not was to have a job that important because he thought he was too old and wouldn't be able to do it. He does not want to move to New York and does not want the responsibility but he eventually agrees to becoming our country's first president.
Filled with many facts and historical events, this book is a fun and engaging read aloud for young readers studying biographies or our first president. I would recommend the book as a read aloud for grade K-3 or in guided reading groups for grades 4-6. I think it is a good way to get kids engaged in nonfiction text.
Filled with many facts and historical events, this book is a fun and engaging read aloud for young readers studying biographies or our first president. I would recommend the book as a read aloud for grade K-3 or in guided reading groups for grades 4-6. I think it is a good way to get kids engaged in nonfiction text.
October 31, 2022
This book nicely covers the beginning of the presidential scene, explaining how Washington became our first president. Reads well and has great illustrations!
Ages: 5 - 9
Cleanliness: nothing to note.
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Ages: 5 - 9
Cleanliness: nothing to note.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! And be sure to check out my bio page to learn a little about me and the Picture Book/Chapter Book Calendars I sell on Etsy!
December 10, 2012
Genre:Biography
Summary: This book tells how the first leader of our country was reluctant to accept the role and leadership of the United States of America.
Critique:
A) Historical correctness/ humor
B) this book tells the rather overshadowed view of George Washington when he was first told to be the leader of our country.
C) Specifically the book exemplifies this on the 8th page when the author writes"But when Americans asked George to be the first President, George said " NO THANK YOU"!
CC) this book would be great in classrooms 2-4. Students could create a graphic organizer of things they didn't know about the most famous American.
Summary: This book tells how the first leader of our country was reluctant to accept the role and leadership of the United States of America.
Critique:
A) Historical correctness/ humor
B) this book tells the rather overshadowed view of George Washington when he was first told to be the leader of our country.
C) Specifically the book exemplifies this on the 8th page when the author writes"But when Americans asked George to be the first President, George said " NO THANK YOU"!
CC) this book would be great in classrooms 2-4. Students could create a graphic organizer of things they didn't know about the most famous American.
September 5, 2008
Everyone wanted George Washington to be the first president, but when they asked him, he gave them a big "NO THANK YOU". Imagine that...he said he was tired, he said he wanted to spend time with his wife, he said he was too old, but the real reason was, he was nervous. But when the masses pleaded, begged and cojoled, he agreed only if it was necessary. Everyone decided it
WAS
necessary. So, George agreed and he was elected. As for carrying out his duty to country and countrymen, he did it!
May 4, 2012
AFter reading their book about Jefferson and Adams, I had to get this earlier one. Enjoyed all the history I learned and tidbits about Washington. (Was he really 6 feet tall? That surprises me.) I have actually learned most of my U.S. history through children's books. I would want to look further as to the accuracy of the facts, so I have some investigating to do. One thing I am curious about his the oath of office...is it still the same? Or have their been changes over the years? I feel like it is very similar, but I will let you know!!!
August 25, 2008
I really liked this book. It used the picture book format to convey interesting facts about how George Washington went from general to President of the United States. The pictures were cute and fun and also had some additional historical nuggets in them. Great for kids and adults.
December 2, 2008
Great book about George Washington and how he was a man who made things happen. Lots of interesting facts that kids and adults alike may not know about the Father of our Country. Wonderful resource for a biography report, or just to expand your knowledge of history.
Read
August 18, 2016George Washington was the favorite to become the president. Everyone thought that he was a great leader when he led the fight against the British and helped write the Constitution. At first he said no, but then he understood that he didn't have to be nervous about his job, he just had to do it.
April 24, 2008
I didn't like this book hardly at all. I just didn't like the more negative aspects it brought out about him rather than the positive.
April 15, 2010
Easy-to-understand stories, introduces new vocabulary in a helpful way, and has great illustrations. Perfect for a 2-4 grade classroom.
May 11, 2010
This title speaks to the reluctance that George Washington felt about becoming the first leader of our country. Offers up little-known facts about Washington and his road to the presidency.
February 14, 2011
Great biography about George Washington!
February 11, 2016
When Gorge Washington did not want to be the President, the first President, the entire nature persuaded him. Humor!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews