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When You Grow Up to Vote: How Our Government Works for You
Eleanor Roosevelt’s book on citizenship for young people now revised and updated for a contemporary audience.
In the voice of one of the most iconic and beloved political figures of the twentieth century comes a book on citizenship for the future voters of the twenty-first century. Eleanor Roosevelt published the original edition of When You Grow Up to Vote in 1932, the same year her husband was elected president. The new edition has updated information and back matter as well as fresh, bold art from award-winning artist Grace Lin. Beginning with government workers like firefighters and garbage collectors, and moving up through local government to the national stage, this book explains that the people in government work the voter.
Fresh, contemporary, and even fun, When You Grow Up to Vote is the book parents and teachers need to talk to children about how our government is designed to work.
In the voice of one of the most iconic and beloved political figures of the twentieth century comes a book on citizenship for the future voters of the twenty-first century. Eleanor Roosevelt published the original edition of When You Grow Up to Vote in 1932, the same year her husband was elected president. The new edition has updated information and back matter as well as fresh, bold art from award-winning artist Grace Lin. Beginning with government workers like firefighters and garbage collectors, and moving up through local government to the national stage, this book explains that the people in government work the voter.
Fresh, contemporary, and even fun, When You Grow Up to Vote is the book parents and teachers need to talk to children about how our government is designed to work.
96 pages, Hardcover
Published September 25, 2018
6 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
About the author
Eleanor Roosevelt
140 books1,680 followersAnna Eleanor Roosevelt was an American political leader who used her influence as an active First Lady from 1933 to 1945 to promote the New Deal policies of her husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, as well as taking a prominent role as an advocate for civil rights. After her husband's death in 1945, she continued to be an internationally prominent author and speaker for the New Deal coalition. She was a suffragist who worked to enhance the status of working women, although she opposed the Equal Rights Amendment because she believed it would adversely affect women. In the 1940s, she was one of the co-founders of Freedom House and supported the formation of the United Nations. Eleanor Roosevelt founded the UN Association of the United States in 1943 to advance support for the formation of the UN. She was a delegate to the UN General Assembly from 1945 and 1952, a job for which she was appointed by President Harry S. Truman and confirmed by the United States Congress. During her time at the United Nations chaired the committee that drafted and approved the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. President Truman called her the "First Lady of the World" in tribute to her human rights achievements.
She was one of the most admired persons of the 20th century, according to Gallup's List of Widely Admired People.
She was one of the most admired persons of the 20th century, according to Gallup's List of Widely Admired People.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 4, 2020
A solid book about what happens when people vote. What kinds of jobs in the government people do and how taxpayer money is distributed. For upper elementary grades in my opinion.
November 4, 2018
Originally written in 1932, this book has been updated for today's world. Using simple, objective language, Mrs. Roosevelt deconstructs the different levels of government that exist in a democracy and how they operate, beginning at the local (town, city) level, then on to the state government, and finally the federal government. Each level covers the different jobs to which people are elected, the services they are expected to perform, and the importance of their jobs in the lives of their constituency. The importance of voting and what happens when a person goes to the polls is very nicely explained (and without any partisanship). In the end, young readers will understand just how elections impacts their lives, the life of their community, and of democracy as a whole. Admittedly, civics isn't always the most exciting subject for kids, but if you plan on teaching it, this is by far one of the best books on the rights and duties of citizenship I've ever used to teach kids. Grace Lin's colorful illustrations are simple, informative and reflect the diverse nation we are. My personal feeling is that to be a responsible voter, you need to be a responsible citizen and part of that is knowing and understanding how the government works and why your vote matters. As Eleanor Roosevelt wrote in 1932: "Someday...you are going to vote. You will help choose men and women to govern the country. But to vote well you will need to know about a great many things, interesting things."
February 5, 2019
Eleanor Roosevelt was a great person who did many great things, and I respect her. She was not a compelling children's book author, however. This book is boring.
November 30, 2018
I wish my Government teacher, in high school, had been brave enough to allow us to read Eleanor Roosevelt's book. Many people, in media, today, need to learn these facts before believing the bizarre ideas that are being claimed, about our government.
The book starts out by explaining all of the civic organizations that are paid for by our cities. The government offices are explained and how they are used. The various types of differences between different cities and states. Then, the book branches out to state government and finally explains how the government of the US is supposed to work.
The Constitution is easily explained and all of the amendments are also understandable. The idea of gerrymandering is shown to have been made illegal by the Supreme Court, even though the media, of today, explains that gerrymandering is alive and well. Something's wrong with this picture, but I'm not the one to grasp what's happening and why the media so easily accepts illegal practices as legal.
I'm ready to read more about Eleanor Roosevelt. She's depicted as having been the most active First Lady, to date. That's impressive! Also, the manner in which the book was updated demonstrates that Michelle Markel has done her research and insures that the book follows the guidelines set up by Eleanor Roosevelte, the original author.
The book starts out by explaining all of the civic organizations that are paid for by our cities. The government offices are explained and how they are used. The various types of differences between different cities and states. Then, the book branches out to state government and finally explains how the government of the US is supposed to work.
The Constitution is easily explained and all of the amendments are also understandable. The idea of gerrymandering is shown to have been made illegal by the Supreme Court, even though the media, of today, explains that gerrymandering is alive and well. Something's wrong with this picture, but I'm not the one to grasp what's happening and why the media so easily accepts illegal practices as legal.
I'm ready to read more about Eleanor Roosevelt. She's depicted as having been the most active First Lady, to date. That's impressive! Also, the manner in which the book was updated demonstrates that Michelle Markel has done her research and insures that the book follows the guidelines set up by Eleanor Roosevelte, the original author.
November 15, 2020
The subtitle is actually the topic of this "moving up" level book - aimed at second- to fourth-grade readers, which is an update of Eleanor Roosevelt's book of the same title published in 1932. (The back cover has a quote from Ms. Roosevelt, "Someday, perhaps in ten or twelve years, you are going to vote.")
To help children relate to the bigger issues of government, it begins with what is probably meant to be a universally-appealing description of a firefighter, a police officer, and a garbage collector, before moving on to elected officials. Ms. Roosevelt, aiming her text at 6- to 8-year-olds, might not have intentionally obscured how frequently the police were used to protect corporations, wealthy individuals, & racist systems...even though she certainly may have observed it at the time - but the modern co-author Michelle Markel knew in 2018 that it was an issue that even children as young as 8 years old would be discussing.
Because Markel shied away from a simple acknowledgment of the obvious inequities of our justice system, and it was obvious by page 7, I think most conscious teachers and parents will find this work inadequate. Which is so disappointing - because Roosevelt & Markel present a succinctly simplified, child-friendly description of many other things about the U.S. government that most kids don't know, need to know, and won't learn even when they are adults and are voting!
So, I am hoping they revise it one more time, and include updates about the attacks on the Voting Rights Act, the recent progress we've made on gerrymandering, and recent discussions about the Electoral College. The five pages at the end that discuss those three topics are among the best pages in the book. When they do that, they should also re-write the 7n pages at the start of the book, and introduce the idea that exactly *who* the police are "protecting" and what *interests* are influencing them is a debatable point, worth examining.
It's not the worst book - and Grace Lin's illustrations - some in color, some in b&w, showing diverse human beings at all roles & levels of society & the government, are charming in some places, and clearly explanatory in others. (I didn't compare them to the original 1932 edition, but I can't imagine how anything could be better than these!)
To help children relate to the bigger issues of government, it begins with what is probably meant to be a universally-appealing description of a firefighter, a police officer, and a garbage collector, before moving on to elected officials. Ms. Roosevelt, aiming her text at 6- to 8-year-olds, might not have intentionally obscured how frequently the police were used to protect corporations, wealthy individuals, & racist systems...even though she certainly may have observed it at the time - but the modern co-author Michelle Markel knew in 2018 that it was an issue that even children as young as 8 years old would be discussing.
Because Markel shied away from a simple acknowledgment of the obvious inequities of our justice system, and it was obvious by page 7, I think most conscious teachers and parents will find this work inadequate. Which is so disappointing - because Roosevelt & Markel present a succinctly simplified, child-friendly description of many other things about the U.S. government that most kids don't know, need to know, and won't learn even when they are adults and are voting!
So, I am hoping they revise it one more time, and include updates about the attacks on the Voting Rights Act, the recent progress we've made on gerrymandering, and recent discussions about the Electoral College. The five pages at the end that discuss those three topics are among the best pages in the book. When they do that, they should also re-write the 7n pages at the start of the book, and introduce the idea that exactly *who* the police are "protecting" and what *interests* are influencing them is a debatable point, worth examining.
It's not the worst book - and Grace Lin's illustrations - some in color, some in b&w, showing diverse human beings at all roles & levels of society & the government, are charming in some places, and clearly explanatory in others. (I didn't compare them to the original 1932 edition, but I can't imagine how anything could be better than these!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2019
This review was originally written for The Baby Bookworm. Visit us for new picture books reviews daily!
Hello, friends! Our book today is When You Grow Up To Vote, written by Eleanor Roosevelt with Michelle Markel and illustrated by Grace Lin, a wonderfully informative chapter book that walks children through the structure of the US government and the effect we can have on it.
Originally published in 1932, this second edition has been updated to be more inclusive and to reflect changes in government since Roosevelt’s day. Starting with an introduction to government employees such as police, firefighters, and sanitation workers, the topics move up through city, state, and national government. Readers are introduced to how bills become laws, how the electoral college works (and how it can be manipulated through gerrymandering), and above all, the importance of making one’s voice heard by voting in elections.
Both timely and timeless. This was a chapter book, and definitely meant for an age group older than JJ’s, but we did choose some key passages to read together and I was so impressed. It’s amazing how Roosevelt’s voice and passion for government carries across decades, and Markel has done a wonderful job of providing necessary updates to the subject matter. The information covered is vital for any citizen, yet it’s approached in a way that simplifies it for – yet never talks down to – its reader. The illustrations bring diversity and visual interest to what can sometimes be dry topics, and fits perfectly without overwhelming. The length is absolutely for older bookworms, but it’s a great way to introduce little ones to their own important place in government. Baby Bookworm approved!
(Note: A copy of this book was provided to The Baby Bookworm by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)
Be sure to check out The Baby Bookworm for more reviews!
February 25, 2019
When You Grow Up to Vote by Eleanor Roosevelt and Michelle Markel, 83 pages. Roaring Brook Press, 2018. $20. Content: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
This nonfiction book breaks down the steps that make our country run. Each branch of government and how they run are simply explained. Other lesser known branches of government are covered including cabinet positions and police and garbage collectors. There are other explanation pertaining to the government at the back including gerrymandering, check and balances and the timeline of the amendments.
I enjoyed this basic explanation of the government and think this information would be great for all citizens. That said, it’s confusing who the intended audience is because the pictures give it a younger feel, but the information would help middle and high school students and might be a bit above the comprehension of younger readers. This book would be great for teachers. My other random complaint is the book says it’s written by Eleanor Roosevelt but there has been a lot of changes to our government since her time and those changes are reflected in the book making it confusing as to what parts she wrote.
C. Peterson
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
This nonfiction book breaks down the steps that make our country run. Each branch of government and how they run are simply explained. Other lesser known branches of government are covered including cabinet positions and police and garbage collectors. There are other explanation pertaining to the government at the back including gerrymandering, check and balances and the timeline of the amendments.
I enjoyed this basic explanation of the government and think this information would be great for all citizens. That said, it’s confusing who the intended audience is because the pictures give it a younger feel, but the information would help middle and high school students and might be a bit above the comprehension of younger readers. This book would be great for teachers. My other random complaint is the book says it’s written by Eleanor Roosevelt but there has been a lot of changes to our government since her time and those changes are reflected in the book making it confusing as to what parts she wrote.
C. Peterson
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
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November 26, 20192. When You Grow UP to Vote introduces kids to the US Government. It covers all aspects of our government and how it is running. Not only does this book educate children about the different branches of government, but it leads up to the most important part, voting!
3. The theme in the book centers around politics and citizenship.
4. I thought this book was pretty cool. I’m not a politic person and know the bare minimum from what I learned in school. I was able to learn so much about the steps that make our country run. Each branch of government and how they run. Every history teacher should have this book.
5. This book could easily be used in a History class as fun, alternatives to learn about not only the voting process but about how a community works as well. I would use this book as a tool to go into depth about government branches and processes. Also, how everything works together to keep our country running.
3. The theme in the book centers around politics and citizenship.
4. I thought this book was pretty cool. I’m not a politic person and know the bare minimum from what I learned in school. I was able to learn so much about the steps that make our country run. Each branch of government and how they run. Every history teacher should have this book.
5. This book could easily be used in a History class as fun, alternatives to learn about not only the voting process but about how a community works as well. I would use this book as a tool to go into depth about government branches and processes. Also, how everything works together to keep our country running.
January 14, 2019
A primer for young readers about the United States government, from local to federal, including discussion of some government employees.
In my mind, it is never too early to start learning about our government and how it works. Voting is a right but also a privilege. A right that should be approached thoughtfully and, one hopes, after careful research, reading, and education on issues. Eleanor Roosevelt’s book, updated by Michelle Markel with helpful illustrations by Grace Lin, is a terrific introduction to our government’s structure and the voting process. My only complaint is that I really, really would like to see Mrs. Roosevelt’s original book now so I could see what was her writing and what was updated. Some changes are obvious: there have been changes in our government after all. But, are her words still in this book? Or just her overall idea of the book?
In my mind, it is never too early to start learning about our government and how it works. Voting is a right but also a privilege. A right that should be approached thoughtfully and, one hopes, after careful research, reading, and education on issues. Eleanor Roosevelt’s book, updated by Michelle Markel with helpful illustrations by Grace Lin, is a terrific introduction to our government’s structure and the voting process. My only complaint is that I really, really would like to see Mrs. Roosevelt’s original book now so I could see what was her writing and what was updated. Some changes are obvious: there have been changes in our government after all. But, are her words still in this book? Or just her overall idea of the book?
November 11, 2021
Government is complex and very grown-up. Using Eleanor Roosevelt's original ideas for how to break it down, author Michelle Markel relates big, complicated aspects of government to ideas that any child can understand. Using short chapters, informative illustrations, and a gradual approach to content, Markel explains how government works and how it works for us. Who is in charge of the police? Who pays for trash collection? How does voting work? Why does the President have so many Secretaries? These are all questions that are often part of adult conversations; thanks to this book they can now be discussed with young people as well.
November 17, 2018
My great-granddaughter is named for Eleanor Roosevelt, so I wanted to get her a book by her namesake to prime the pump for when she gets old enough to start thinking about how the world around her functions. She's only 4 months now, but you can't start too early on this stuff, right? ;) And this is a good basic primer on how Democracy works, by one with the authority to remind us all of what it takes to keep our Democracy alive.
December 28, 2018
As a guide to basic government organization this is well done. Selling it under the guise that Eleanor Roosevelt wrote it seems a bit off because there is a lot of additions made since her time-as there needs to be, but changing my mind set between what Eleanor wrote and what was added was confusing.
February 21, 2019
This was an amazing update of a book that I personally believe even adults need to re-read every once in a while. It presents information in a very kid friendly way, with further research and information available to those who want more. A great overview of our country at a whole; especially at a time when not everything is following the rules of democracy. Always a 5/5!
December 31, 2020
A reissue of a 1932 publication, this book offers a rudimentary view of local, state, and national government. I think it would be great for upper elementary students just learning about this topic. Would love to compare the original to the contemporary edits done by Michelle Markel.
Illustrations by Grace Lin, alternating color and black and white, enhance the content even more.
Illustrations by Grace Lin, alternating color and black and white, enhance the content even more.
December 11, 2018
A succinct, thoughtful introduction for elementary school children (and adults, like me, who didn't pay close attention in high school US Government class [too many cute boys]) to city, county, state and national government and the responsibility we have as citizens to be informed voters.
April 18, 2019
Updated from the original book by Eleanor Roosevelt. The writing is a bit dry. Illustrations by Grace Lin are eye catching and helpful to understanding. A relevant book for our times as our democracy faces huge challenges.
August 20, 2019
This was a cute book for children to learn about not only the voting process but about how a community works as well. It’s written at more of a middle grade level for independent reading but could be for a younger age group with a teacher or parent doing guided reading.
December 31, 2019
If you are looking for an excellent way to introduce your child or class to the basics of local, state, and national government this is the book for you. I love the new illustrations with the original text by Eleanor Roosevelt and I love her desire to educate children about how things work.
November 13, 2020
I liked that it talked about city, county, state and federal government all in one book. Not quite sure what ages it would be best for, probably mid elementary school. (It could be both too basic for those with high interest in politics, and too complicated for younger students).
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January 15, 2024A very simplified and basic look at our (United States) government. Beginning with the local, and working up to the federal, every place where a vote might impact your life is mentioned. Clear and factual, and lately updated.
September 7, 2025
Delightfully illustrated by Grace Lin in an endearing simplicity, this hymn to civic duty carefully explains American government, updated by Michelle Markel … absolutely stellar for the younger reader …
March 7, 2026
I love Eleanor Roosevelt. This book talks about what government does for you, how government works and how to participate in the government especially through voting. It was a good basic book about government.
September 17, 2018
Excellent book for ages 6 - 11ish. Very clear and easy to understand. Knowing how our government works is critical if we are going to preserve our democracy.
December 11, 2018
Such a lovely reboot of this classic text, really shows the government and how it works in a very concrete way that follows how our Social Studies standards are expressed.
December 26, 2018
YES THIS IS A CHILDRENS BOOK YES I READ IT COVER TO COVER YES IT IS GREAT !!
January 7, 2019
Very easy to read and understand for kids in elementary. I am recommending to the teachers at school.
January 28, 2019
Adore this book. Excellent and easy to understand graphics. Straight forward language and kid friendly examples without dumbing down the content.
February 5, 2019
Chock full of great information to teach kids how their government works (the good, the bad, and the ugly), and why their vote will be so important when they grow up.
July 24, 2019
Frankly, it was kind of boring. It has a little blurb about Eleanor Roosevelt in the back which would be good to use as a source in a research project.
November 4, 2020
This is a great intro to politics and how voting can affect things all the way down to first responders or garbage collectors.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews