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What Does It Mean to Be...?
What Does It Mean to Be American?
What does it mean to be American? Does it mean you like apple pie or fireworks? Not exactly. This patriotic picture book is perfect for Memorial Day, Independence Day, Election Day, or any day you want to share with your child what it means to be an American. After all, Fourth of July isn't the only time to celebrate what makes America special! While politics seem to divide our country into the two opposing teams of red and blue, one truth remains: we are all Americans. But what does that mean? This continuation of the popular, award-winning What Does It Mean to Be…? series provides a nonpartisan point of view perfect for any and all Americans who are proud of who they are—and where they come from, regardless of their political views. What Does It Mean to Be Present? What Does It Mean to Be Global? What Does It Mean to Be Kind?
40 pages, Hardcover
First published April 9, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 31, 2026
Read this story with my first grader. We read it during memorial weekend. The story started out with questions like if you like fast foods or liking fireworks then it's a no. But being American means "believing that all people are equal, and should have the opportunity to be happy." "Freedom to choose whom we love, what we believe, what we do, and where we live, and to change our minds if we want." It's comforting to know that all Americans follow the same rules. The illustrations makes American look fascinating because American is composed of all ethnicity and backgrounds. We are kind to one another and appreciate each other's differences. "Being American means having the right to become your best self." Good story and illustrations!
Thank you Sourcebookskids for the opportunity to read and review.
Thank you Sourcebookskids for the opportunity to read and review.
January 22, 2019
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.
Thank you so much to the publisher for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you so much to the publisher for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 26, 2019
Full disclosure: I'm Canadian. I'm not unfamiliar with the USA, though. I lived there for a couple of years as a child, and I've crossed the border many times to shop or to visit family. We live close enough to the border that we get American TV stations, in all their pharmaceutical-fuelled glory. (Seriously... do Americans realize how many drugs are being pushed on them when they're trying to watch The Bachelor? "Be sure to talk to your doctor and tell them if you experience unexplained bleeding from your fingernails, swelling in the tongue, or death, as these conditions may become permanent." But I digress...) What I mean to say is that I'm pretty familiar with the USA, the concepts it was founded upon, and its need to constantly declare itself the bestest, most free-est country in the world.
To its credit, this book is nonpartisan. Unfortunately, that's about all it has going for it. The main narrative is laughably simple to the point of being complete nonsense, and it doesn't account for any of today's current problems. What Does It Mean to Be American? reads more like fiction than non-fiction. It's either completely deluded, or it's simply the USA the way some people would like it to be. If the sentiments put forth in this book were indeed true, then it would be a great country. But wishing the place you lived were a utopia does not make it so. You can't just say something is one way and--poof!--it's magically true. Let's take a look at a few of the premises this book puts forward:
Yes, that's nice in theory, but all you have to do is watch the evening news to see that's not the case.
Okay, fine. But that doesn't just apply to Americans.
Oh, boy. Can you see the issue here? This book holds America up as this great bastion of liberty, freedom, and tolerance, when in reality it's still struggling with accepting people who are different. It was late to the same-sex marriage party, and you've got Trump trying to ban transgender people from serving in the military. How is that freedom?
In theory? Yes... at the federal level. (The book contradicts itself here because the end matter talks about how states can have different laws. So I don't know why this point was even included.)
What... you mean the way Vietnam vets were treated when they got home? That's "honoring" them? What about all the homeless vets of today, suffering with PTSD and other injuries? They need more than hugs and salutes (which is what this book shows).
Okay, I just can't do this anymore. You've got a president who wants to open up National Parks to be exploited for their resources, huge dead zones in American waters from agricultural runoff, and a large contingent of people who think that climate change isn't real (and therefore nothing needs to be done), and the book is talking about "cherishing" the land?
The book goes on to talk about being grateful, leading by example when people need help, and welcoming people from other countries, all of which would be laughable if they didn't make one want to cry. Right now, this book reads as little more than nationalistic propaganda, a tool to convince American children of their superiority in the world, ignoring the reality that's going on every single day.
This is also one of those books that feels like a school exercise. There are six pages of small text at the back with more "facts", although so much of it seems outdated and kind of irrelevant. The book actually tries to make the case that America cherishes its natural resources by quoting a song from 1895. It does the same sort of thing when it talks about honouring its veterans, by invoking the words of Abraham Lincoln in the Gettysburg Address. (Don't even get me started on how they threw in the Second Amendment without context.)
I was a little put off by the "greatest nation in the world" stuff, even though I was expecting it. At first, I thought this book might not be such a bad thing. At least it's something to aspire to. But when I thought about it some more, I realized how very problematic it is. By showing things the way they should be, the book completely ignores the way things actually are... which could lead children to believe that there isn't anything that needs to be fixed. The little mixed-race girl in the book is going to have a tougher time than the book leads us to believe. We don't need to watch more than a few minutes of the news to know that.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Pickle Press for providing a digital ARC.
To its credit, this book is nonpartisan. Unfortunately, that's about all it has going for it. The main narrative is laughably simple to the point of being complete nonsense, and it doesn't account for any of today's current problems. What Does It Mean to Be American? reads more like fiction than non-fiction. It's either completely deluded, or it's simply the USA the way some people would like it to be. If the sentiments put forth in this book were indeed true, then it would be a great country. But wishing the place you lived were a utopia does not make it so. You can't just say something is one way and--poof!--it's magically true. Let's take a look at a few of the premises this book puts forward:
Being American means ... believing that all people are equal, and should have the opportunity to be happy.
Yes, that's nice in theory, but all you have to do is watch the evening news to see that's not the case.
... following our dreams, and working hard to achieve them.
Okay, fine. But that doesn't just apply to Americans.
... having the freedom to choose whom we love, what we believe, what we do, and where we live, and to change our minds if we want.
Oh, boy. Can you see the issue here? This book holds America up as this great bastion of liberty, freedom, and tolerance, when in reality it's still struggling with accepting people who are different. It was late to the same-sex marriage party, and you've got Trump trying to ban transgender people from serving in the military. How is that freedom?
... knowing all Americans follow the same rules.
In theory? Yes... at the federal level. (The book contradicts itself here because the end matter talks about how states can have different laws. So I don't know why this point was even included.)
... honoring those who protect and serve us.
What... you mean the way Vietnam vets were treated when they got home? That's "honoring" them? What about all the homeless vets of today, suffering with PTSD and other injuries? They need more than hugs and salutes (which is what this book shows).
... cherishing our abundant natural resources...
Okay, I just can't do this anymore. You've got a president who wants to open up National Parks to be exploited for their resources, huge dead zones in American waters from agricultural runoff, and a large contingent of people who think that climate change isn't real (and therefore nothing needs to be done), and the book is talking about "cherishing" the land?
The book goes on to talk about being grateful, leading by example when people need help, and welcoming people from other countries, all of which would be laughable if they didn't make one want to cry. Right now, this book reads as little more than nationalistic propaganda, a tool to convince American children of their superiority in the world, ignoring the reality that's going on every single day.
This is also one of those books that feels like a school exercise. There are six pages of small text at the back with more "facts", although so much of it seems outdated and kind of irrelevant. The book actually tries to make the case that America cherishes its natural resources by quoting a song from 1895. It does the same sort of thing when it talks about honouring its veterans, by invoking the words of Abraham Lincoln in the Gettysburg Address. (Don't even get me started on how they threw in the Second Amendment without context.)
I was a little put off by the "greatest nation in the world" stuff, even though I was expecting it. At first, I thought this book might not be such a bad thing. At least it's something to aspire to. But when I thought about it some more, I realized how very problematic it is. By showing things the way they should be, the book completely ignores the way things actually are... which could lead children to believe that there isn't anything that needs to be fixed. The little mixed-race girl in the book is going to have a tougher time than the book leads us to believe. We don't need to watch more than a few minutes of the news to know that.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Pickle Press for providing a digital ARC.
May 8, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
What Does It Mean to Be American? is a super cute drama/conflict-free look at what it means to be an American, and basically, it all boils down to: being a decent person who cares about your family and others and always trying your best. I really enjoyed this and think it’s a perfect book for children to get a grasp on being proud of who they are and helping others.
The illustrations are very friendly and I was happy to see that they included a lot of diversity so that all sorts of children can see themselves represented, which is so important. I think everyone regardless of who they are will appreciate the values that this book is trying to instill in our young ones. Highly recommended!
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
What Does It Mean to Be American? is a super cute drama/conflict-free look at what it means to be an American, and basically, it all boils down to: being a decent person who cares about your family and others and always trying your best. I really enjoyed this and think it’s a perfect book for children to get a grasp on being proud of who they are and helping others.
The illustrations are very friendly and I was happy to see that they included a lot of diversity so that all sorts of children can see themselves represented, which is so important. I think everyone regardless of who they are will appreciate the values that this book is trying to instill in our young ones. Highly recommended!
Also posted on Purple People Readers.
October 7, 2019
Hmm... I was really hoping this book wouldn't be among the countless where native folks are just erased from the picture. But it is! Besides that it's fine I guess? Very positive and liberally inflected, but something built on a broken foundation will always be broken. I'm not saying all books have to acknowledge all parts of this broken system, but this book seems to pride itself on being so inclusive and so diverse which feels hollow when you just whitewash the negativity. Keep it.
October 22, 2020
This is a concept book about what it means to be American. The book discusses some American values, which can be found in the Declaration of Independence and the constitution, and it also discusses the values & hard work of some historically famous Americans. It mentions valuing America's national parks and natural beauty, and it references the Statue of Liberty and how America has a tradition of welcoming people from other countries.
I think this is a good book, even if currently it sometimes seems that some of the aspects discussed in this book are lacking right now. Still, it can be useful for discussions with children in pre-school and elementary school about what it means to be American. There are several pages of interesting back-matter at the end of the book.
I think this is a good book, even if currently it sometimes seems that some of the aspects discussed in this book are lacking right now. Still, it can be useful for discussions with children in pre-school and elementary school about what it means to be American. There are several pages of interesting back-matter at the end of the book.
April 8, 2019
This seems to be a fairly decent, albeit simplistic explanation. I know others will be quick to point out America's failings and the areas where we, the people, do not measure up to the values extolled in this book. But, keep in mind, this book is for children. Why not aim high? Also, I've seen some complaints that America is not the only country to hold some of these values. Fair enough but it never says, America is the ONLY one. It is however, a unique country, flawed to be sure, but definitely a country that has been blessed. The message of gratitude, is always welcome, in my view.
December 13, 2018
Read an Advanced Reader's Copy - I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It seems a bit simplistic in it's message, which can be good for a picture book, but this is more about the hope of a Utopia than what is actually happening in the U.S. right now. It's a good sentiment, but not realistic. I did like some of the notes and questions in the back.
January 6, 2019
I received a digital ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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.
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.
December 20, 2018
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
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
October 28, 2019
The Constitution in PB form. It explains in kid language what American values really are and what they look like. Given all the ways that our values have been distorted, this is an important book.
May 19, 2019
'What Does It Mean to Be American?' by Rana DiOrio and Elad Yoran with illustrations by Nina Mata is a picture book for the young about what citizenship means to those living in the US.
Being American has plenty of stereotypes, but it's not about liking apple pie or fast food. believing others are equal and free to pursue their dreams. Freedom of choice, honoring those who serve us and helping others.
Going in to this book, I had preconceived notions of what it would be about, but I couldn't have been more pleased to be wrong. This is not about stereotypes or espousing a certain political viewpoint.
The book ends with things from American history that back up each page for further discussion. There is the preamble to the Constitution, a list of hard-working Americans like Abraham Lincoln, Jackie Robinson and Walt Disney (among others).
It's a simple enough book to read, but has some very good intent and content. I can see this being an intentional gift for young citizens and would-be citizens. The illustrations are bright and underscore the book.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Little Pickle Press, SOURCEBOOKS Jabberwocky, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
Being American has plenty of stereotypes, but it's not about liking apple pie or fast food. believing others are equal and free to pursue their dreams. Freedom of choice, honoring those who serve us and helping others.
Going in to this book, I had preconceived notions of what it would be about, but I couldn't have been more pleased to be wrong. This is not about stereotypes or espousing a certain political viewpoint.
The book ends with things from American history that back up each page for further discussion. There is the preamble to the Constitution, a list of hard-working Americans like Abraham Lincoln, Jackie Robinson and Walt Disney (among others).
It's a simple enough book to read, but has some very good intent and content. I can see this being an intentional gift for young citizens and would-be citizens. The illustrations are bright and underscore the book.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Little Pickle Press, SOURCEBOOKS Jabberwocky, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
August 29, 2019
As we start packing up our possessions to move to country No. 7 this summer, this lovely book reminded me of what I said when we moved back to the US three years ago.
I told my husband that our oldest (I didn’t know at the time I was pregnant with our 2nd) would get to know what it is to “be an American”.
She had lived in 5 different countries and even though we spent summers at home in California/North Carolina with the grandparents, the US wasn’t “home” to her.
My girls won’t be raised in America, but we as parents are still instilling the politics and ideals of America because that is who we are at our core.
I love this book because like we tell our daughters as we live in each new country, this book highlights the fact that apple pie, fast food, and baseball don’t mean that you are American. Being American means the right to become your best self, and the obligation to help others too.
Love and empathy for people is what makes America so great.
With gorgeous illustrations (same illustrator as SHE’S GOT THIS) and simple prose, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN AMERICAN is a lovely addition to your bookshelf.
Lastly, I really encourage you to research third-cultured kids if that is new to you.
I told my husband that our oldest (I didn’t know at the time I was pregnant with our 2nd) would get to know what it is to “be an American”.
She had lived in 5 different countries and even though we spent summers at home in California/North Carolina with the grandparents, the US wasn’t “home” to her.
My girls won’t be raised in America, but we as parents are still instilling the politics and ideals of America because that is who we are at our core.
I love this book because like we tell our daughters as we live in each new country, this book highlights the fact that apple pie, fast food, and baseball don’t mean that you are American. Being American means the right to become your best self, and the obligation to help others too.
Love and empathy for people is what makes America so great.
With gorgeous illustrations (same illustrator as SHE’S GOT THIS) and simple prose, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN AMERICAN is a lovely addition to your bookshelf.
Lastly, I really encourage you to research third-cultured kids if that is new to you.
March 5, 2019
What Does It Mean to Be American? is a wonderfully written children's book about patriotism and following our dreams. Our country currently seems so divided politically and culturally, and there is so much negatively in America now, but this book focuses on a more idealistic version of America. The author shares all the positive things that being an American means and how we can follow our dreams and make our country even better. This is a book perfect for older elementary school children, but there are a few bigger words that parents or teachers may have to explain the meanings of, depending on the age of the children (such as abundant, frontiers, accomplished, obligation). My five year old was interested in the book, but my 3 year old lost interest quickly. Discussion questions at the end of the book are perfect for parents and teachers to use for thought-provoking conversations.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
March 22, 2023
This book explains the reasons as to what it means to be an American, and what freedom in this country allows for people to do. Everyone gets to be who they are and who they want to be, love who they want to-no matter what anyone says, and have the freedom to change our minds if we want to. The book is very inclusive, with multiple characters of different races, ethnicities, and occupations. It does a great representation of what America is about, with helping others who come from different countries, and helping those in need. I would use this in my future classroom so my students can know the world that they live in. I believe from a young age, children should know what America has been from the core, so they can continue to help out others in need, and be the great person that they want to be in life. All my students should know that they have the capability to do whatever they want to in life, no matter how difficult it may seem.
August 25, 2020
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: What Does It Mean To Be American?
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Rana Diorio
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
"What Does It Mean to be American?" is a beautifully written Children's book. It will introduce kids to their country, its culture and values. As we grow up, it is important for us to be aware about where we have come from.
One is blessed to be born an American. They have equal opportunities and rights. They have the freedom to choose whom they love, what they do, where they live. Americans are kind and help other people who is in need.
Read the entire book yourself to know more about the values that Americans have. The language of the book is simple so kids will be able to understand it. The choice of colors in the illustrations is amazing. Parents should gift this book to their kiddos so they can be more aware about the country they are born in.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.5/5
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Rana Diorio
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
"What Does It Mean to be American?" is a beautifully written Children's book. It will introduce kids to their country, its culture and values. As we grow up, it is important for us to be aware about where we have come from.
One is blessed to be born an American. They have equal opportunities and rights. They have the freedom to choose whom they love, what they do, where they live. Americans are kind and help other people who is in need.
Read the entire book yourself to know more about the values that Americans have. The language of the book is simple so kids will be able to understand it. The choice of colors in the illustrations is amazing. Parents should gift this book to their kiddos so they can be more aware about the country they are born in.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 4.5/5
November 4, 2019
In this book it talks about what it means to be an American. It is such a good book that portrays great values that all Americans have or should have. We must love everyone and treat everyone equally. It is about being proud of our accomplishments, but staying humble in knowing we always have more to learn. It is about leading by example and being a leader and role model. Being an American give us the right to become our best self and help others. I love this book and it is such a great way to share with children what it mean to be an American. I highly recommend this book to every child. If you are teaching a child what it means to be an American this is the book for you. The pictures are great and colorful.
November 7, 2020
🇺🇸 "What Does it mean to be American?" is an adorable Children's Book by the authors Rana Diorio & Elad Yoran. This colorful picture book will capture children's attention right from the first page.
🇺🇸 Being an American doesn't just means liking apple pie and fireworks. Being American means that all people are equal and should have the opportunity to be happy. Little readers will learn great things about being an American through this cute and adorable book.
🇺🇸 Red and blue colors used in the picture of the books totally gives American feeling. This is a fantastic book that has interesting facts at the end which kids should know. This book has totally won my heart. Beautifully Illustrated and nicely written!
🇺🇸 Being an American doesn't just means liking apple pie and fireworks. Being American means that all people are equal and should have the opportunity to be happy. Little readers will learn great things about being an American through this cute and adorable book.
🇺🇸 Red and blue colors used in the picture of the books totally gives American feeling. This is a fantastic book that has interesting facts at the end which kids should know. This book has totally won my heart. Beautifully Illustrated and nicely written!
July 18, 2019
This is a wonderful way to introduce your child to the true meaning of being an American. From Believing that all people are equal and have the opportunity to be happy, being American means honoring those who protect and serve us to being American means leading by example to take action when people need help. This book is very well illustrated and appealing to any child. I really like the end of the book and the talking points to have with your child and examples they give for each reason to be an American. It is important for children to not only know their heritage but the importance of respecting the country they live in no matter where it is. I recommend this book for children 5+.
August 31, 2020
'What Does It Mean to be American?' is a Children's Book written by the author Rana Diorio & Elad Yoran and illustrated by Nina Mata. The aim of this book is to tell little readers about the culture and the values of a citizen of America.
It's never too late to learn about your culture, where you have come from. This book introduces little Americans about their right to dream and live a life that they desire. It means the equality among people.
The book is penned down beautifully with vivid illustrations and simple narration. I appreciate author's efforts to make kids aware about their culture, country since childhood.
It's never too late to learn about your culture, where you have come from. This book introduces little Americans about their right to dream and live a life that they desire. It means the equality among people.
The book is penned down beautifully with vivid illustrations and simple narration. I appreciate author's efforts to make kids aware about their culture, country since childhood.
October 13, 2020
In October 2020, thos book is more aspirational than a reflection of reality.
I also read it with the thought that this could describe so many other countries' idealized visions of themselves. The examples of Americans who embody these principles and the primary source quotations were necessary to ground it in an American context.
(Except for the illogical and unnecessary mention of the 2nd Amendment; there was no visual or textual reason to cite this particular amendment; that was the only slightly partisan or controversial part of the book.)
I certainly did not dislike the book. May it inspire readers to take it to act and VOTE to make this less fictional.
I also read it with the thought that this could describe so many other countries' idealized visions of themselves. The examples of Americans who embody these principles and the primary source quotations were necessary to ground it in an American context.
(Except for the illogical and unnecessary mention of the 2nd Amendment; there was no visual or textual reason to cite this particular amendment; that was the only slightly partisan or controversial part of the book.)
I certainly did not dislike the book. May it inspire readers to take it to act and VOTE to make this less fictional.
April 21, 2026
5/5 stars
Ages: 4-8
Nonfiction
I LOVED reading this book and definitely want it in my classroom. This book not only explains what makes each student an American citizen but the children pictured in the book are so diverse! I think all students could be able to see themselves represented in this book and that helps students connect with reading and stories. I enjoyed reading through and seeing all the illustrations that the book has. It made me happy to see all the cultures represented throughout the book.
Ages: 4-8
Nonfiction
I LOVED reading this book and definitely want it in my classroom. This book not only explains what makes each student an American citizen but the children pictured in the book are so diverse! I think all students could be able to see themselves represented in this book and that helps students connect with reading and stories. I enjoyed reading through and seeing all the illustrations that the book has. It made me happy to see all the cultures represented throughout the book.
January 25, 2019
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.
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for providing a digital arc.
July 17, 2023
Recommended with reservations
This is generally a good book that's appropriate for children. It introduces the concept of citizenship and extols positive values. Two of the creators are immigrants and that point of view shows. No problem there! It does neglect the First Nation and Black historical narratives, but it's a kid's book. This is part of a series that looks worth looking into. I'd gift this book.😊
This is generally a good book that's appropriate for children. It introduces the concept of citizenship and extols positive values. Two of the creators are immigrants and that point of view shows. No problem there! It does neglect the First Nation and Black historical narratives, but it's a kid's book. This is part of a series that looks worth looking into. I'd gift this book.😊
April 9, 2026
Reading this book made me think more about the fact that being American isn’t just one specific thing or identity. The book shows how people can come from completely different backgrounds but still belong, which I think is really important right now. Being American is more about values like acceptance and respect than where you come from. I enjoy how this book talks about diversity in a digestible way for children.
June 15, 2022
I received an electronic copy from Little Pickle Press through Edelweiss+.
DiOrio shares about inclusivity and what matters to be an American. She takes readers on a journey to celebrate all that makes America kind and accepting. The illustrations capture a country where people are accepted and valued. The informative text included at the end offers more data for further growth.
DiOrio shares about inclusivity and what matters to be an American. She takes readers on a journey to celebrate all that makes America kind and accepting. The illustrations capture a country where people are accepted and valued. The informative text included at the end offers more data for further growth.
November 12, 2023
Genre: Informational
Grade Level: Pre-K - 3rd
This would be a great book to read to or have younger elementary students read. It is a very sweet book about what is means and looks like to be American. The illustrations are very vibrant and go along with the text to help the reader understand what they are reading. I would definitely recommend reading this book to younger children!
Grade Level: Pre-K - 3rd
This would be a great book to read to or have younger elementary students read. It is a very sweet book about what is means and looks like to be American. The illustrations are very vibrant and go along with the text to help the reader understand what they are reading. I would definitely recommend reading this book to younger children!
June 30, 2020
As an Army family we love anything Americana and this did not disappoint. I loved the different displays of what it means to be American. I would add this into our curriculum when discussing American and civility or during the 4th of July.
May 31, 2019
Wonderful message and resources at the end to foster discovery and discussion with older readers! Would be a great contrast for an Esperanza Rising essay.
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July 29, 2019MT
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