I am George Washington

Ordinary People Change the World

by Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos (Illustrator)

We can all be heroes. That’s the inspiring message of this New York Times Bestselling picture book biography series from historian and author Brad Meltzer. Learn all about George Washington, America’s first president.
 
George Washington was one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known. He was never afraid to be the first to try something, from exploring the woods around his childhood home to founding a brand new nation, the United States of America. With his faith in the American people and tremendous bravery, he helped win the Revolutionary War and became the country’s first president.
 
Each picture book in this series is a biography of a significant historical figure, told in a simple, conversational, vivacious way, and always focusing on a character trait that makes the person a role model for kids. The heroes are depicted as children throughout, telling their life stories in first-person present tense, which keeps the books playful and accessible to young children. And each book ends with a line of encouragement, a direct quote, photos, a timeline, and a source list.

Genres: Biography, Picture Books, History, Childrens, Nonfiction, Presidents, Historical

Paperback

First published May 31, 2016

About the author

Brad Meltzer is the Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lightning Rod, The Escape Artist, and eleven other bestselling thrillers. He also writes non-fiction books like The JFK Conspiracy, about a secret plot to kill JFK before he was sworn in – and the Ordinary People Change the World kids book series, which he does with Chris Eliopoulos and inspired the PBS KIDS TV show, Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. His newest kids books are We are the Beatles, We are the Beatles, and I am Simone Biles. His newest inspirational book is Make Magic, based on his viral commencement address.

In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.

He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.

He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.

For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.

His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!

His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.

His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.

His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.

He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.

Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who

Reviews

[Calista · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book about our founding father did something I haven’t seen with George Washington. It talked about the story of chopping down a cherry tree and said that the story never happened. It wasn’t true. I have to admit I was shocked. I haven’t seen that before. Pop, gone.

He came from a family with 9 children - that’s a ton of kids
He used to survey land as he was good at math
He never went to high school or college, he did learn as much on his own as he could
He was a bad speller (we have something in common)

I still learned something from this gloss over of George’s life. This book is the same standard as the rest in the series.

The nephew wondered why someone would powder their hair white. It makes him look old. I told him it was the style of the time, and he thought it was stupid. I said, what if someone thought wearing tee-shirts in the future was stupid. What would you think? Everyone wears them, that’s just a dumb idea he said. I told him it was the same thing. People do things to be cool and back then it was white hair and today it’s tee-shirts. He thought I was an idiot for that. Anyway, he gave this 3 stars.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was super cute! The fact that George is so teensy on every page is hilarious to me, I'm not sure why. My favorite bit was this:

"In life, there are many ways to lead. You can be a quiet leader, a tough leader, a bold leader. But leadership isn't about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge."

This is a perfect little biography to teach kids about the father of our country.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.50 This series is just adorable but it also has some great insight into history. I also love the inspiration the authors provide through historical figures like Washington. "Leadership isn't about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge."

[Isabel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great little children's biography about George Washington and his leadership! Great to read to young children who are just learning how to read!

[Kelsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I am George Washington" is a high quality, complex picture book in the Biography genre which takes the point of view of our nation's first president, George Washington. This comic book-esque little story allows the reader a look into President George Washington's life as well as his triumphs and lasting impact. The highly engaging pictures and dialogue of this book can lend themselves to most grades in Elementary school, but may be a great independent read for grades 2-4 and a guided or read aloud book for lower grade students. The message of this book runs with the theme of the "Ordinary People Change the World" series that it is apart of, in the end showing readers that George Washington wasn't always the 'father of our country' but he was always a leader in many positive and courageous ways, which is what left his mark on the landscape of our country's history.

Lesson Ideas:
This book could be used as a research aide in projects like wax museum, where students are tasked with essentially becoming a person from history. This book lends itself well to taking on the persona of George Washington as it is written from his point of view and contains substantiated facts from many times throughout President Washington's life.
Another lesson that this book lends itself to is that of growth mindset or character traits. The Brad Meltzer "I am" Biographies all center around ordinary people throughout history who achieved world changing things through attainable personality traits. The "I am George Washington" book focusses on having courage, standing up for what is right, and being true to your own personality. George Washington wasn't a leader because he spoke loudly, carried himself tall, and intimidated people, but because he was trustworthy and diligent. This book would be a great lense with which to look at character traits by using context clues and close reading, having students pick out character traits of President Washington and others throughout the story.

This is a WOW book for me because I absolutely ADORE American History and George Washington has been one of my favorite presidents for as long as I can remember. Additionally, I loved the mix of facts and humor as well as the incredibly engaging illustrations in this book! It was a fun way of learning about, being inspired by, and humanizing a great figure in this country that I think all students should know about!

[Andrea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't really like this book as much as the other books in this series but it was interesting to read about the life of George Washington. I'm fortunate to live in the only state named after him and I really didn't know much about him (other than the fabricated stories that are so popular, like the wooden teeth and the apple tree), so I did learn a lot about our First President. This is a great book to teach kids about history but adults should find it entertaining as well.

[Jesse · Rating 5 out of 5]

George's book begins with his early years, takes us through his military career, and includes the important events afterward when he voluntarily walked away from power to do his own thing. I liked that the author focused on the difficulty and pride of being the first person to do something. I found it inspiring and hope kids will, too!

[Harmony · Rating 3 out of 5]

Informational.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read it. Share it with your kids. It's a great way to become better informed and appreciative of the father of our country.

[Jillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good biography - focused on the quality of leadership.

[Jenna Dif · Rating 5 out of 5]

-I Am George Washington is a biographical depiction of George Washington's life in a child-friendly way. The book is from George Washington's perspective, and he recounts his life from childhood all the way up to his time as the president. The story highlights some of the major aspects of Washington's life, such as his harsh winter at Valley Forge, his childhood and family make-up, and the American Revolution. This book falls into the biographical genre since it details George Washington's life, but he did not technically write it so it would not be an auto-biography.
This book could be used in any of the elementary grades, but I think it would be best-received in the lower grades, specifically K-2. I think this is because of the pictures being so animated, the way that "George" discusses his life as a child and how he grew up knowing he would be someone important, and how it explains his accomplishments and major milestones in a way that younger children can understand and relate to, and the terminology is somewhat less advanced.

-Since we just finished our unit on President's Day, this book proved to be very helpful in facilitating student learning about the "presidents," a concept most of them had never heard of before our President's Day unit. One way this could be used would be as a read aloud, and use it to facilitate student discussion afterwards. This could be a read aloud to stretch an entire week, and because of the length of the book, you could read and/or focus on a certain part of the book each day. Using it as a read aloud is a great way to aid in student's understanding of the concepts since as a teacher, you typically stop and add your own take or background knowledge to give students a more rounded picture and provide them with details to aid in their understanding. This would be a great book to read during the week that President's Day falls on, or in discussing the genres of biography and autobiography.

-Another way you could use this book in class would be to use it for students to do some kind of dramatic play/reenactment of the story. (I am thinking specifically in the lower grades for this activity) One of the best ways to help students learn to retell a story is to have them act it out or try to recall certain parts of the story. This could be done in conjunction with the read aloud, and students could choose to act out certain parts of the story and then as a class discuss the importance of those parts of the story. Many young students do not understand what exactly the president is or what he/she does, and so having them act out what George Washington did and experienced would aid in their understanding of the president's job as well as increase their ability to recall details from a story. Having these reenactments facilitate class discussion is a great added bonus!

-This book is a WOW book to me mainly because it gives a very well-rounded view of the person of George Washington. I find that many times biographical stories or videos for children about significant figures do not include anything about their childhood or life before becoming the important person they were. This story is very different. "George" recounts things he enjoyed as a child, and even calls himself an "ordinary child!" However, he does point out that he believed he would be something great. I love that this gives students the idea that regardless of their background, ethnicity, or ability, they can grow up to be something great too! This is a different take on a biographical account of a president's life, and both myself and my students really enjoyed it!

[Shelby Adcock]

This book is a great biography about the United States' first president. This book is a high quality and complex picture book that has information throughout about the life of George Washington. It begins with him as a child talking about where he grew up all the way to being the first fearless leader of the United States. One common theme that the author wanted to express to the reader was his fearless ability to lead the country in a very determined way. This book would be appropriate for 3rd and 4th graders. This was a WOW book for me because of how the author was able to relay such detailed information in a child friendly way. From the history I know about George Washington, I know that his journey to be the first leader of the United States was not easy and I could not even imagine trying to write a children's book on this topic. I was WOWed away at this. It was also very interesting for me to learn about his childhood and what his family life looked like.

This book could be incorporated in the classroom in many different ways and many different subjects. The one subject that comes to mind the quickest would be social studies. This book not only has many different character traits throughout, it also is a great history lesson for younger children. If I was using this book as a history lesson, I would use it as a read aloud and have a worksheet or some type of activity such as a scavenger hunt for students to complete in groups. I would ask basic comprehension questions through this activity and students could go through the book and find answers. This activity will allow students to expand their knowledge about George Washington and could help support student reading comprehension skills. Another activity I would do in the classroom would be to use this book as a character trait lesson. The main character trait throughout this book is definitely determination and I could use the read aloud of this book to have a large class discussion about how George Washington used determination and why this character trait is important.

[Leighton]

I am George Washington is a biography that I would use in the third grade. This biography went in depth about George Washington's life and included things that the general public would not know. I didn't know that he was home schooled by his brothers after his father passed away. Throughout the book it discussed what a good leader was and good characteristics of George Washington that ultimately led to him being voted president. I would use this book as an example for students to write an autobiography. They could even do this with a similar little character like this book. I also think it would be cool if they put these events into a timeline to tie social studies and reading together. My last idea would be to have my students hold an election in the classroom and vote for a classroom president. This book was a WOW book for me because I learned a lot I didn't know about George Washington before. For an example, I found it interesting that he was the only president that had a state named after him. I also liked how it was almost like a walk through George Washington's life instead of reading about it, it was more like a story. I also really enjoyed the fun facts at the end.

[Casie Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! I would like this book in my future classroom because the historical information is accurate but the character of George Washington is also portrayed through humor. Very kid friendly and engaging while also relaying information.

[Sungju Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

It tells about how he was raised and how complicated he was. When he grew up, it tells about how he was a good leader.

[Brenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

A child’s version of George Washington’s biography.

[Nathan Albright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book that simultaneously comments on Parson Weems and even seems to channel it for itself.  Parson Weems, of course, is the writer who was famous for creating the myth of George Washington and the apple tree that was used during the 19th century and beyond as an example of our first president's honesty and moral rectitude, but this author, in commenting about the myth, should probably have been more charitable as he is no more competent as a historian writing to children.  At the very least, though, this particular book is an enjoyable one and it manages to capture at least a good bit of what made Washington so noteworthy.  It must be admitted, though, that this novel does a great bit of airbrushing, and it can certainly be considered a hagiography that demonstrates the sorts of things that the author considers inappropriate for children to focus on if they are to respect George Washington.  We know that the author respect the man because of his other works involving the Culver ring, which are referred to at least briefly here, to demonstrate his skill in spycraft.  However, there is much more that this author leaves out of great importance.

The author begins, as is common in this series, in the childhood of George Washington, particularly in the way that he respected his big brother, who raised him after the early death of their father.  He also shows the importance of the Fairfaxes as a elite family to help teach him some of the decorum needed to be a member of the Tidewater elite.  The author talks about his surveying, his participation in Braddock's invasion of Western Pennsylvania, his early efforts at colonial politics, and his choice as the leader of the Continental Army, along with his role in helping craft the Constitution and serve as the first president under its terms.  The author makes a great deal of Washington's willingness to step away from power, something that separates the rule of law of the United States from the behavior of more corrupt nations.  Like many other volumes of this series, there is an item that appears more than once, but unlike the penny or the Brooklyn Dodgers cap of previous volumes, it happens to be his false teeth, which make for a rather unpleasant reminder of life in the past when dental care was not so advanced as it is today.

What is missing from this book, though, is nearly as important as what is stated.  The author neglects to mention Lawrence's death that left him bereft of his model when he was still a young man.  It does not comment upon the land speculation that was included with the surveying that Washington chose as a profession.  (Incidentally enough, it was Lincoln's refusal to profit from such speculation as a land surveyor himself that earned him the nickname Honest Abe.)  Nor does the author focus on the events of Ft. Necessity that led to his surrender to the French before Braddock's campaign, nor his marriage of the wealthy widow Martha Custis, nor his role as a slaveowner as a member of Virginia's elite, nor his important Farewell Address with its caution against entangling foreign alliances.  As is quite common in such matters, the author picks and chooses what he wants to use to support the points he is trying to make and neglects a lot that is important to understanding him in his context.  Even so, despite these serious omissions, this book is still better than many of the other volumes in this series because it is at least patriotic, an that is something.

[Michelle Abuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Am George Washington by Brad Meltzer has 40 pages and appropriate for 3-5 years and up. I categorize I Am George Washington as a historical fiction. I Am George Washington explains George Washington journey from his childhood to his being the first president. It shows how George Washington become successful president and how he fights for the people country. I gave four stars as my rate for I think the book is appropriate for children, however, the story is lacking important dates information. It would be more accurate if the exact dates are given in the story. The book illustration is colorful and animated, and it gives more appealing to children especially when the book displays the dialog. The book is also organized and provide proper words that are appropriate and easy to understand for Kindergarten level. I like to read this with my future students for it demonstrate good morals such as being brave, polite, contented and friendly. In my opinion, the book will help me to explain the quality of being a leader and that they need to adapt it to be a better and successful person someday and I can use this book as an example of a good role model.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a cartoon/graphic-style book on George Washington's life. Readers get to experience what it was like to grow up, as this influential general--who turned into our first president. His story will inspire generations and generations to come.

This graphic picture book is beautifully done. It displays the early years of this man, but also before and during his presidency. Children will be fascinated with this story!

I would connect this story with more books George Washington books but also on other presidents. Also, reading these stories on George Washington's birthday/President's Day--for children to make more connections. Students may come to conclusions how power, determination, and intelligence are what influential people have, which benefit our society.

"People will tell you that I was a perfect boy. They'll say I didn't tell a lie after I chopped down a cherry tree. But that cherry tree story isn't true. Like most boys back then, I liked swimming..fishing.. and riding horses."

[Scott Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author: Brad Meltzer
Title: I Am George Washington
Awards: N/A

Summary: This is another excellent book by Brad Meltzer told by the character in a first person narrative of their life and accomplishments. It is informative and personable and very compelling. The biography illustrations are cute and create interest in turning the page to see what happens next.

Review / Application: Lesson 2 of a biographical study for first and second grade students. This might be a great time to introduce the Westbrook Conclusion cloud or other text based support visual tools that support biographical reading and the conclusions that can be drawn from it. Another excellent tool for discussing thoughts and drawing support from the text to confirm it.

[Tara McKenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

this book does a wonderful job giving us insight on George Washington while he was growing up. a look into his childhood and his life in the military and everything that leads him up to be the first president.

This book does a great job for both children and adults. There were even things in the book that I didn't know about.

This book would be great in any classroom. especially when learning about the first presidents.

[Heather Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

megan winter reading 2017, children's book, picture book, nonfiction, non-fiction, series, people who changed the world, George Washington, president, history, biography, first grade, second grade, third grade,

[angrykitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

with Lincoln...the kid's 2nd fav president...prob 1 and 1a.

[Kaylyn Burrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book to introduce students to George Washington during a president lesson. It gives information about George's life and achievements as the first president.

[Chrissie Baaklini · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I am George Washington" by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos, is a captivating children's biography that introduces young readers to the life and legacy of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The book is part of the "Ordinary People Change the World" series, which aims to inspire children by highlighting the achievements of historical figures.

The primary genre of this book is a Historical fiction, tailored for young readers to learn about important historical figures in an accessible and engaging way. The book follows George Washington's life from his childhood to his leadership during the American Revolution and his presidency.

One of the primary themes of the book is leadership and integrity. Through Washington's story, children learn about the qualities of a great leader, including honesty, bravery, and a sense of responsibility. The book emphasizes Washington's role as a founding father and a symbol of American values, making it educational and inspirational for young readers.

Another key message in the book is the idea that anyone can make a difference. By showcasing Washington's journey from a young boy with dreams to a revered leader, the book encourages children to believe in their potential and strive for greatness in their own lives.

Reflecting on what children can learn from this book, it offers valuable lessons about American history, leadership qualities, and the importance of perseverance. Teachers or parents can use this book instructionally by discussing Washington's achievements, exploring the founding of the United States, and engaging in activities that promote leadership skills and civic responsibility.

As for why this book was a WOW book for me, it impressed me with its ability to present complex historical information in a way that is both accessible and engaging for young readers. Meltzer's writing style is clear, concise, and engaging, capturing Washington's story with a sense of admiration and respect. Eliopoulos' illustrations complement the text beautifully, adding visual appeal and enhancing the narrative.

In terms of literary craft, the author utilizes storytelling techniques such as character development, chronological storytelling, and dialogue to bring Washington's story to life. The use of anecdotes and examples from Washington's life adds depth and nuance to the narrative, making it relatable and compelling for young readers.

Regarding bias, "I am George Washington" presents a balanced and respectful portrayal of Washington's life and achievements. It acknowledges both his contributions and the complexities of history, presenting Washington as a multifaceted figure worthy of admiration while also acknowledging historical context.

Considering the social, political, historical, and cultural contexts, this book contributes to children's literature by providing a positive and educational introduction to American history and leadership. It encourages children to learn from the past, appreciate the values of integrity and perseverance, and aspire to make a difference in their communities—a valuable message for readers of all ages.

[Melody Sutton · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is about George Washington's life. The book starts by talking about his family and where he was from, which was Mount Vernon. It goes on to explain what he was like as a boy and the types of things he liked to do. His family could not afford an education, but he was committed to learning. After going through his childhood, they covered the Revolutionary War and how he was commander and chief. Lastly, they talked about how he was the first president of the United States. I liked the content of this book. It was very easy to understand and could keep kids interested. It was also not too wordy, which you find sometimes in non-fiction picture books. I would use this book in my classroom when my students were learning about George Washington in history so that we can connect subjects. This book does not only teach them about George Washington, but also the Revolutionary war and what life was like back then. It can also can lead to a discussion about presidents and what they do.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Man, it must have been hard to choose which parts of Washington's life to include and make it accessible to children. I think there should have been mention of how he learned surveying from Lawrence, how he kind of cause the Ft. Ticonderoga failure (instead of making it seem like he was invincible by bullets), a cursory mention of his wife and kids, and a pronunciation of 'charisma'.

However, the main parts are there, and this book is meant to inspire, so if it does it's job of inspiring kids to learn more about Washington or our country's beginnings, then well done!

I do love the picture on the page before the timeline where even Superman himself lauds Washington. Great touch! OH! Now that I look at it I also see Jane Goodall with Jubilee! Who else is hidden in that picture that I didn't notice? Who is the man with the green "dinosaur" t-shirt? I guess I need to read more of these books to find out!

[Amanda Kearney · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is about George Washington's life growing up and through his presidency. It discusses how George Washington was a leader, and how he had to be first for a lot of things. Sometimes it is hard to be first because no one before you has done anything. George Washington leads the United States to win the war against the British, and without him, the United States may not be here today. We could still be under British rule.

I liked this book. It was not my favorite one of Brad Meltzer's but I thought it was informative and taught me more about our first president. In Metzner's other books, there was something at the beginning that caught my interest, but this one was a little more boring to me and I felt like I already knew most everything that was written. I do really like George Washington and I think it would be good for young students who are just now learning about our first president.

This book gives a good history lesson over the first president of the United States. It is also a good book to read if the students are learning about the Revolutionary War. Overall I liked this book and would really encourage my students to read it.

[Isabella Marrier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This biography about George Washington is a great way to introduce the one of our founding fathers. Readers get a glimpse at where George came from, how he grew up, his inspirations, and what led him to being the leaders into the American Revolution. We get to see George's likes and dislikes and the tragedy of the loss of his father. Through role models and adventures, George finds the courage to pave his own "new road." George was sneaky and willing to try new things to fight for freedom. Fortunately for us, it all worked out. Check out this book if you want to learn how America first broke away from the 13 colonies.

[Goddess of Chaos · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a quick, inspirational, introduction to George Washington focusing on the qualities he drew on to be a great leader, and you deal with the pressure of being "first".

As the book points out, America, right after we won our independence from England, nearly established a King, but it was Washington who declined, opting to be President, and then retire to his life in the country.

One of the other sections I particularly liked was about showing up ready for the job you want, prepared to do the job as part of showing those selecting who will do the job that you are the right/best candidate.