The Road to Washington is Paved with Politics (and these 7 Picture Books)

Lillian’s Right to Vote, by Jonah Winter and Shane W. Evans
Lillian is weary. 100 years of walking, talking, loving, and living have her leaning heavily on her gnarled walking stick. Slow as her ascent may be, however, she will surely climb her mountain, and claim her right as an American citizen—Lillian will vote. Along her journey, Lillian recounts the painful history of the Black vote in America, for she carries the tribulations of her ancestors deep within her bones. Their stories are her stories. Released more than 50 years after the Voting Act of 1965, this moving tale has art and a message to savor.

President Squid, by Aaron Reynolds and Sara Varon
Squid is ready for his close-up. He has assessed his viability for the highest role in the land, and has not found himself wanting. In fact, Squid rather likes the sound of “President Squid” (and he’s rather fond of the sound of his own voice too), and he has 5 important reasons why he would “be the greatest president who ever lived!” Brimming with witty insights, and a crystal-clear message about what it really means to be president, this is a tale you’ll reach for again and again to please your politically savvy readers.

Hillary, by Jonah Winter and Raul Colon
She might not have become our 45th president, but people on both sides can agree that she gave it her best shot. And she has a long history of perseverance, as evidenced by this thoughtful, inspiring biography. Stirring prose and extraordinary illustrations make this a must-read for all future leaders.

Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis, by Jabari Asim and E.B. Lewis
A long time ago, on a dusty farm in South Carolina, John Lewis learned to speak up for those who couldn’t speak for themselves, and he preached his first sermon in the henhouse. From these humble beginnings came one of our most influential civil rights leaders, and a U.S. Congressman. Beautiful illustrations accompany this powerful story, which will quickly become a favorite in your house.

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsberg Makes Her Mark, by Debbie Levy and Elizabeth Baddeley
In the mid-20th century, Ruth Bader Ginsberg rejected the path set before her. She knew the proper thing for her to do was to 1. Find a husband 2. Have kids 3. Stay quiet. She did the first two, but she wouldn’t have become the second female in the highest court in the land if she’d followed the third. This fearless woman is responsible for extraordinary accomplishments in the area of civil rights, and much, much more. Prepare to be inspired!

If I Ran For President, by Catherine Stier and Lynne Avril
In this compelling story, 6 children weigh in on the question of presidential candidacy, and the results are entertaining and informative. From initiating a campaign, to inauguration, each candidate has a clear path, and they don’t avoid the issues. You and your little reader will have to decide who’s most convincing—and every vote counts!