Read the Revolution
When Women Lost the Vote: Young Readers Edition
October 14, 2020
In the Museum’s 2020-21 exhibition When Women Lost the Vote: A Revolutionary Story, 1776-1807, which ran from Oct. 2, 2020 through April 25, 2021, we both discovered the multitude of roles women played throughout the American Revolution and explored the little-known story of voting roles in New Jersey during the Revolutionary Era. While these stories can – and should – be explored in our galleries and in a virtual exhibit, you can also extend the learning at home with some of our favorite books. Continue reading to discover your new favorites for young readers aged 4 to 11 years old.
Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America
Written by: Deborah Diesen
Illustrated by: Magdalena Mora
An inspiring look at the history of voting rights that looks back at the activists who answered equality’s call and worked tirelessly to secure the right for all to vote.
Abigail & John
Written by: David Bruce Smith
Illustrated by: Clarice Smith
Exploring the historical significance of a partnership that spanned over five decades, this book details the love they shared for each other and the country. From carefree childhoods to years of war, to the births of their children, and the beginning of a new nation, Abigail & John looks into the unique roles the Adams’s played in the formation of America, and contributions and sacrifices they made for the young country.
Phillis’s Big Test
Written by: Catherine Clinton
Illustrated by: Sean Qualls
In 1773, Phillis Wheatley published a book of poetry. Only a year before, Phillis had had to take a test to prove that she was the actual author of these poems, because Phillis Wheatley was enslaved. Phillis believed in the power of her words, and her writing to prove her talent, and used the power of words to change a life.
What Can a Citizen Do?
Written by: Dave Eggers
Illustrated by: Shawn Harris
Watch how kids turn a lonely island into a community – and watch a journey from what the world should be to what the world could be. This is a book about what citizenship – good citizenship – means to you, and to us all.
If I Ran for President
Written by: Catherine Stier
Illustrated by: Lynne Avril
If you ran for president, your name would be on bumper stickers and T-shirts. You’d also have to do a lot of hard work. You’d study the nation’s problems, tell the American people your ideas, and debate your opponents on live TV. What would happen on Election Day in November?
Leave It to Abigail: The Revolutionary Life of Abigail Adams
Written by: Barb Rosenstock
Illustrations by: Elizabeth Baddeley
She blurted out questions; she married a poor country lawyer; she managed a farm and fed hungry soldiers; she insisted they "Remember the Ladies". In this inspiring tribute, learn the true story of Abigail Adams – an extraordinary woman who surprised the world.
Mumbet’s Declaration of Independence
Written by: Gretchen Woelfle
Illustrated by: Alix Delinois
Everybody knows about the Founding Fathers and the Declaration of Independence in 1776. But the founders weren’t the only ones who believed that everyone had a right to freedom. Mumbet, a Massachusetts slave, believed it too. She longed to be free, but how? Would anyone help her in her fight for freedom? Could she win against her owner, the richest man in town? Mumbet was determined to try.
Grace for President
Written by: Kelly DiPucchio
Illustrated by: LeUyen Pham
When Grace Campbell's teacher reveals that the United States has never had a female president, Grace decides to be the first. And she immediately starts off her political career as a candidate in the school's mock election. But soon, she realizes that she has entered a tough race. Her popular opponent claims to be the "best man for the job" – and seems to have captured all the male votes – while Grace concentrates on being the best person.
Thank You for Voting: Young Readers Edition
Written by: Erin Geiger Smith
Voting is a privilege and a right, but it hasn’t always been for many people. From the founding fathers to Jim Crow to women’s suffrage to gerrymandering – and everything in between – readers will get a look at the complex history of voting. In this young readers’ edition, Erin Geiger Smith presents a fascinating look into America’s voting history and inspires young people to get involved.
Read the Revolution is sponsored by The Haverford Trust Company
Read the Revolution is published biweekly by the Museum of the American Revolution to inspire learning about the history of the American Revolution and its ongoing relevance.
Learn More
When Women Lost the Vote: A Revolutionary Story
October 2, 2020 - April 25, 2021