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Perhaps the most serious problem with current literacy campaigns is that they ignore, and even divert attention from, ... More
Summary: A president's work is never done. Follow along with a young girl as she handles all of her duties: meeting with her cabinet; solving problems big and small; making decisions; and leading by example. This picture book story explains what the president does … and reminds girls they can be whatever they want!
Type of Reading: bedtime story, family reading, anytime reading, read aloud book, early reader
Recommended Age: read together: 4 to 9; read yourself: 8 to 10
Interest Level: 4 to 9
Reading Level: 3.7
Age of Child: Started reading with 7-year-old girl.
Little Kid Reaction: "Wow! That's a lot of work." We took our time exploring this book, and we had lots of questions. Our daughter's new favorite word is veto! She especially loved reading about the president's cabinet.
Big Kid Reaction: This was a lot of fun to read. We particularly enjoyed the subtle humor. The simplicity of the text and event-driven illustrations make it easy to explain concepts and new vocabulary. For example, we learn about diplomacy when the president keeps her feelings about someone's hat to herself. Kids understand that they need to say only kind things, but they don't generally say "I'm being diplomatic."
Pros: Excellent illustrations and conversational text engage kids in learning about what the President of the United States does. The author parallels the president's role with activities kids can relate to (like cleaning your room), making this not only fun to read, but educational, too.
Cons: Absolutely none!
Borrow or Buy: Buy! The story and illustrations are entertaining. Younger readers will enjoy exploring the story and listening to you read it. As they become more sophisticated readers, kids will grasp the humor and irony, and learn some things along the way!
Educational Themes: This book is valuable on lots of levels. It is a great introduction to how the Executive Branch works. The ideas are well presented and the concepts will remain with kids later, as they study our Constitution. Given the historical nature of the 2008 national election cycle, it is also a nice starting point for talking about goals, hard work, and possibilities.
Notes: Flesch Kincaid reading level 3.7
Literary Categories: Fiction - picture book, government
Date(s) Reviewed: October 2008
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