Are you looking to connect Kid Governor® lessons with your English Language Arts curriculum? Or searching for exciting, age-appropriate civics books for your 5th graders to read? Look no further!
The Kid Governor® Library is a curated list of civics books that enable you to link reading and civics. The books are organized into three topic areas: Government, Elections & Voting – Leadership – Civic Engagement. We also have a bonus section with books by and about Kid Governors!
The following books have been recommended by Kid Governor® staff and participating teachers. To suggest a book for the Library, email info@kidgovernor.org!
Click here to learn about the students who have campaigned on Children’s Literacy during their state’s Kid Governor statewide elections!
E is for Election Day
by Gloria Gavris, Illustrated by Shawn McCann
“E is for Election Day is an engaging A-to-Z look at the election process in the United States. From “A is for American Elections” to “Z is for Zig Zag”, Gloria Gavris walks students through each part of what it takes to vote in an election and run for office.” Visit EisForElectionDay.com.
D is for Democracy
by Elissa Grodin, Illustrated by Victor Juhasz
“Grodin takes readers through the history and basic components of what a democracy is through her citizen’s alphabet.” Watch her special read-aloud of D is for Democracy for Kid Governor® classes HERE.
Vote!
by Eileen Christelow
“Vote! takes students through the election process during a town’s mayoral election. Christelow uses her book to go through the voting process, campaigning and volunteering, and even how recounts work. The book includes a timeline of the history of voting in the U.S., a glossary, and other resources.” Visit Christelow.com/Vote.
Today on Election Day
by Catherine Stier, Illustrated by David Leonard
“Students learn about Election Day as they go to the school gym and see it transformed into a polling place. The characters learn about voting from their relatives who are range from first time voters to volunteers.”
Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America
by Deborah Diesen, illustrated by Magdalena Mora
“This history of voting rights looks back at the activists who answered equality’s call, working tirelessly to secure the right for all to vote, and it also looks forward to the future and the work that still needs to be done.”
Running for Public Office
by Sarah De Capua
“Students learn about what they need to do to run for public office. From making the decision to run to raising money, all the way to winning the election. Students gain insight into the entire campaigning process.”
How Do We Elect Our Leaders?
by William David Thomas
“Readers learn about how the President of the United States, members of Congress, state government officials, and local officials are elected and the importance of voting.”
The Voice of the People: American Democracy in Action
by Betsy Maestro, Illustrated by Giulio Maestro
“The Voice of the People walks students through an American election, some of the country’s founding documents, and how our democracy works. The book examines how politicians get their jobs, from local to federal elections.”
There Ought to Be a Law – A Bright Day at the State Capitol
by Portia Bright Pittman and Calvin Mercer, Illustrated by Harry Aveira
“There Ought to be a Law-A Bright Day at the State Capitol is a fun, informational picture story book for ages 6-9 about how bills become laws. The illustrated story takes Eliza and Martin on a visit to the state legislature.”
For Which We Stand: How Our Government Works and Why It Matters
by Jeff Foster, Illustrated by Julie McLaughlin, Foreword by Yolanda Renee King
“Now more than ever, it’s so important for everyone to understand our government: where it came from, how it works, and how we can bring about change.”
The Voice That Won the Vote: How One Woman’s Words Made History
by Elisa Boxer, Illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger
“In August of 1920, women’s suffrage in America came down to the vote in Tennessee. If the Tennessee legislature approved the 19th amendment it would be ratified, giving all American women the right to vote. The historic moment came down to a single vote and the voter who tipped the scale toward equality did so because of a powerful letter his mother, Febb Burn, had written him urging him to “Vote for suffrage and don’t forget to be a good boy.” The Voice That Won the Vote is the story of Febb, her son Harry, and the letter than gave all American women a voice.”
The Little Book of Government
by Zack Bush (Author), Laurie Friedman (Author)
“This book for children provides a basic and easy-to-understand introduction to government and the role it plays in our society. Important concepts like democracy, freedom, and lawmaking are explained, along with an introduction to the role the Constitution plays in our government as well as our nation’s three branches of government.”
Class President
by Johanna Hurwitz and Sheila Hamanaka
“Julio puts aside his own ambition to be class president to help a friend with his campaign. Throughout the story, Julio shows his own leadership qualities by helping others, speaking up, and asking questions. In the end, it is these qualities that get him elected to be class president!”
The Class Election from the Black Lagoon
by Mike Thaler, Illustrated by Jared Lee
“Mrs. Green announced that they are having a class election and everyone must run for something. Hubie doesn’t want to run for anything but decides to run for class president against Doris, even though he doesn’t think he can win. Follow Hubie as he stands for something and does some unusual things to become class president.”
When I Grow Up…Great Leaders: Kids Like You that Became Inspiring Leaders
by DK Children, Illustrated by Lucy Semple
“Everyone, from Nelson Mandela to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, was once a small child learning about the world. Read how a diverse array of kids discovered what they were passionate about, worked hard, and followed their dreams to make a positive difference as adults.”
Leaders and Thinkers in American History: A Children’s History Book: 15 Influential People You Should Know
by Megan DuVarney Forbes
“Leaders and Thinkers in American History is a colorful children’s history book that explores the lives of influential American figures and their incredible accomplishments. Kids will discover the stories of men and women across hundreds of years, from all different backgrounds, and how they used their passion and talent to impact the world.”
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History
by Lisa Trusiani
“Are you ready to read about daring deeds and world-changing events? Meet the American Trailblazers, diverse historical and modern figures who accomplished incredible things. History books for kids ages 9-12 should include a range of people and stories―here you’ll learn about the greats in sports, civil rights, art, science, and more.”
The Little Girl Who Grew Up to Be Governor: Leadership Lessons and Stories From the Life of Martha Layne Collins
by Frances Smith Strickland Ph.D.
“How can children learn leadership? What are the skills that will most benefit the next generation of leaders? How can we teach children the value of cooperation and community, in such a divided political landscape? The Little Girl Who Grew Up to Be Governor teaches leadership skills to young readers using the inspirational story of Kentucky’s first woman governor—Martha Layne Collins.”
Fearless Trailblazers: 11 Latinos Who Made U.S. History
by Naibe Reynoso, Illustrated by Jone Leal, Translated by Victoria Infante (Translator)
“Fearless Trailblazers, 11 Latinos who made U.S. History/Pioneros Audaces, 11 Latinos que hicieron historia en Los Estados Unidos, is a bilingual book that highlights 11 Latinos who excelled in their professional careers and made U.S. history by accomplishing something that hadn’t been done before in their respective fields which include science, sports, the arts and politics.”
101 Awesome Women Who Changed Our World
by Julia Adams, Illustrated by Louise Wright
“This beautifully illustrated book is packed with bitesize biographies of activists, leaders, athletes, artists, explorers, and STEM innovators.”
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
by Vashti Harrison
“Little Leaders educates and inspires as it relates true stories of forty trailblazing black women in American history. Illuminating text paired with irresistible illustrations bring to life both iconic and lesser-known female figures of Black history such as abolitionist Sojourner Truth, pilot Bessie Coleman, chemist Alice Ball, politician Shirley Chisholm, mathematician Katherine Johnson, poet Maya Angelou, and filmmaker Julie Dash. Readers will find heroes, role models, and everyday women who did extraordinary things – bold women whose actions and beliefs contributed to making the world better for generations.”
Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History
by Vashti Harrison and Kwesi Johnson
“This volume brings to life true stories of black men in history. Among these biographies, readers will find aviators and artists, politicians and pop stars, athletes and activists. The exceptional men featured include writer James Baldwin, artist Aaron Douglas, filmmaker Oscar Devereaux Micheaux, lawman Bass Reeves, civil rights leader John Lewis, dancer Alvin Ailey, and musician Prince.”
No Voice Too Small: Fourteen Young Americans Making History
by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley, and Illustrated by Jeanette Bradley
“Mari Copeny demanded clean water in Flint. Jazz Jennings insisted, as a transgirl, on playing soccer with the girls’ team. From Viridiana Sanchez Santos’s quinceañera demonstration against anti-immigrant policy to Zach Wahls’s moving declaration that his two moms and he were a family like any other, No Voice Too Small celebrates the young people who know how to be the change they seek.”
All the Way to the Top: How One Girl’s Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything
by Annette Bay Pimentel, Illustrated by Nabigal-Nayagam Haider Ali, Foreword by Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins
“Experience the true story of lifelong activist Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins and her participation in the Capitol Crawl in this autobiographical picture book.”
She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm
by Katheryn Russell-Brown, Illustrated by Eric Velasquez
“As a student at Brooklyn College, Shirley could outtalk anyone who opposed her on the debate team. After graduating, she used her voice and leadership to fight for educational change. In community groups, she stood up for the rights of women and minorities. Her small stature and fiery determination often took people by surprise. But they listened.”
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us
by Analiza Quiroz Wolf
“This beautifully illustrated book shares engaging stories of 16 trailblazing Asian Americans. The stories bring to life Vietnam Memorial architect Maya Lin, Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi, musician Yo-Yo Ma, astronaut Ellison Onizuka, anchorwoman Lisa Ling, activists Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz, and more! Among these biographies, readers will find heroes, discover role models, and meet ordinary people who did extraordinary things. Highlighting the talent and contributions of Asian American leaders and changemakers from around the United States, readers of all backgrounds will be empowered to discover what they too can achieve.”
Like a Girl
by Lori Degman, Illustrated by Mara Penny
“Once upon a time, “like a girl” was considered an insult. Not anymore! In art, aviation, politics, sports, every walk of life, girls are demonstrating their creativity, perseverance, and strength. From civil rights activist Rosa Parks, who stood up for her beliefs by staying seated, to astronaut Sally Ride, who soared to the skies, the 24 women profiled here took risks, acted up, broke barriers, and transformed the world.”
Someday Is Now: Clara Luper and the 1958 Oklahoma City Sit-ins Hardcover – Illustrated, August 7, 2018
by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich, Illustrated by Jade Johnson
“As a child, Clara Luper saw how segregation affected her life. When she grew up, Clara led the movement to desegregate Oklahoma stores and restaurants that were closed to African Americans. With courage and conviction, she led young people to “do what had to be done.” Perfect for early elementary age kids in encouraging them to do what is right and stand up for what is right, even at great cost, this is a powerful story about the power of nonviolent activism.”
Courageous History Makers: 11 Women from Latin America Who Changed the World
by Naibe Reynoso, Illustrated by Jone Leal, Translated by Gabriella Aldeman
“Courageous History Makers: 11 Women from Latin America who changed the World highlights 11 women from Latin America who excelled in science, sports, the arts, journalism, politics and more.”
For the Right to Learn: Malala Yousafzai’s Story
by Rebecca Ann Langston-George and Janna Rose Bock
“She grew up in a world where women were supposed to be quiet. But Malala Yousafzai refused to be silent. Discover Malala’s story through this powerful narrative telling, and come to see how one brave girl named Malala changed the world.”
Real Kids, Real Stories, Real Change: Courageous Actions Around the World
by Garth Sundem
“Thirty true stories profile kids who used their heads, their hearts, their courage, and sometimes their stubbornness to help others and do extraordinary things.”
Goldie Takes a Stand: Golda Meir’s First Crusade
by Barbara Krasner, Illustrated by Kelsey Garrity-Riley
“Even at the age of nine, little Golda Meir was known for being a leader. As the president of the American Young Sisters Society, she organizes her friends to raise money to buy textbooks for immigrant classmates.”
The Highest Tribute: Thurgood Marshall’s Life, Leadership, and Legacy
By Kekla Magoon, Illustrated by Laura Freeman
“A brilliant picture book biography about Thurgood Marshall, who fought for equality during the Civil Rights Movement and served as the first Black justice on the Supreme Court, from Coretta Scott King Honor winners Kekla Magoon and Laura Freeman.”
Asian Pacific American Heroes
By Mia Wenjen
“Meet 18 Asian Pacific American leaders from yesterday and today! From musician Bruno Mars and Olympian Chloe Kim to chef Niki Nakayama, these real life heroes inspire us to learn about Asian Pacific American history, language, and culture. Illustrated with photos.”
Rebel Girls Lead – 25 Tales of Powerful Women
by Rebel Girls
“Rebel Girls Lead: 25 Tales of Powerful Women celebrates the incredible and inspiring stories of 25 women leaders in politics, business, sports, activism, and more, all written in fairy tale form. It is part of the award-winning Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls series.”
Just Help!: How to Build a Better World
by Sonia Sotomayor
“In a story inspired by her own family’s desire to help others, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor takes young readers on a journey through a neighborhood where kids and adults, activists and bus drivers, friends and strangers all help one another to build a better world for themselves and their community. This book shows how we can all help make the world a better place each and every day.”
Making a Difference: An Inspirational Book About Kids Changing the World!
by Stacy C. Bauer, Illustrated by Emanuela Ntamack
“Making a Difference is the first book in the new, inspirational nonfiction children’s book series Young Change Makers. It is filled with stories of kids who are making the world a better place by following their hearts and chasing their dreams.”
We Are the Change: Words of Inspiration from Civil Rights Leaders
by Harry Belafonte
“Sixteen award-winning children’s book artists illustrate the civil rights quotations that inspire them in this stirring and beautiful book.”
Say Something!
by Peter H. Reynolds
“The world needs your voice. If you have a brilliant idea… say something! If you see an injustice… say something! In this empowering new picture book, Peter H. Reynolds explores the many ways that a single voice can make a difference. Each of us, each and every day, have the chance to say something: with our actions, our words, and our voices. Perfect for kid activists everywhere, this timely story reminds readers of the undeniable importance and power of their voice. There are so many ways to tell the world who you are… what you are thinking… and what you believe. And how you’ll make it better. The time is now: SAY SOMETHING!”
Butterflies Belong Here: A Story of One Idea, Thirty Kids, and a World of Butterflies
by Deborah Hopkinson
“This book is about the real change children can make in conservation and advocacy—in this case, focusing on beautiful monarch butterflies.”
Alex and the Amazing Lemonade Stand
by Jay Scott and Liz Scott
“Using rhymes and bright, whimsical pictures, Alex and the Amazing Lemonade Stand tells a sweet, true story of a little girl named Alex. Faced with a problem, she comes up with a plan: she will sell lemonade from a lemonade stand. This story shows how the small act of one person can have an impact on many people.”
Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea
by Meena Harris, Illustrated by Ana Ramírez González
“A beautiful, empowering picture book about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of the author’s aunt, Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris.”
Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez & Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation
by Duncan Tonatiuh
“Seven years before Brown v. Board of Education, the Mendez family fought to end segregation in California schools. Discover their incredible story in this picture book from award-winning creator Duncan Tonatiuh.”
I Campaigned for Ice Cream: A Boy’s Quest for Ice Cream Trucks
by Suzanne Jacobs Lipshaw
“An upbeat, educational, and heartwarming true story of Joshua Lipshaw, who as a nine-year-old petitioned his local government to change an outdated law that prevented ice cream trucks from driving through his town. Complete with adorable illustrations by Wendy Leach, this sweet book is a tasty treat for young readers as well as a lesson that they too can make a difference in their communities.”
I Am Every Good Thing
by Derrick Barnes, Illustrated by Gordon C. James
“The confident Black narrator of this book is proud of everything that makes him who he is. He’s got big plans, and no doubt he’ll see them through–as he’s creative, adventurous, smart, funny, and a good friend.”
Mother Jones and Her Army of Mill Children
by Jonah Winter, Nancy Carpenter
“A stunning picture book about Mary Mother Jones and the 100 children who marched from Philadelphia to New York in a fiery protest against child labor.”
Carl the Complainer
by Michelle Knudsen
“Carl complains about everything, until he discovers how to turn complaints into action! Social Studies Connects makes history, geography, economics, civics and culture come alive!”
Pippin and the Super Kind Friends Club
by 2018 Oregon’s Kid Governor Dom Peters, Illustrated by Anna Barnes
As a part of his anti-bullying platform, 2018 Oregon’s Kid Governor Dom Peters wanted to write a book to inspire students to be kind to each other. Follow Pippin the Puppy as he journeys through some difficult circumstances, overcomes them, and turns his bad day into something good!
The Dog Patrol: Our Canine Companions and the Kids Who Protect Them
by Rob Laidlaw
Author Rob Laidlaw introduces readers to kids who are helping to protect dogs, empowering them to do the same in their communities. One of his featured kids is 2017 Connecticut’s Kid Governor Jessica Brocksom! Jessica’s platform was Helping Animals: Those Without a Voice.