Books are a great way to introduce children to the concept of elections, politics, and voting. It can open their minds and eyes to the world around them and help them understand democracy and the voting process. With a variety of books available, it can be hard to decide which ones are the best for your children.
To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best kid’s books about elections, politics, and voting.
Candide: Election Edition by Sharon Brant
This wonderful short novel by Sharon Brant is an adapted modern version of Voltaire’s Candide from 1759. The main character, Candide, is a 17-year-old living in a world of political unrest, as he is presented with difficult decisions of allegiance as he finds himself surrounded by varying political parties with different views. This lighthearted and humorous book is a great way to introduce your kids to political ideologies.
The Voting Booth by Brandy Colbert
The Voting Booth is a beautifully written story by Brandy Colbert. It follows a 17-year-old, Duke and his journey to the polls to vote for the first time. What should be an exciting experience is halted when the polling station discovers Duke’s name is missing from the register. With the help of his friend Marva, Duke then stages a protest for his right to vote. This book is a fantastic way to show the importance of our voting rights and how we should unite to protect them.
My Vote Counts by Nancy Bo Flood and Keiran O’Neill
This visually stunning and informative book by Nancy Bo Flood and Keiran O’Neill takes a look at the complexities of democracy from a Native American perspective. It shows kids the importance of voting and how their voice matters. It explains the politics, the process, and the power of the American system of government, and the strength of its citizens through a child’s eyes.
Our Vote Counts: How to Participate, Participate, and Lead by Jane Gerver
This book, Our Vote Counts: How to Participate, Participate, and Lead is a great way to teach children how to actively engage in the voting process. Featuring photographs, charts, and illustrations, this book is perfect for introducing the basics of politics and voting. It encourages readers to participate in the democracy in meaningful ways, with helpful activities and tips that sound refreshingly simple and inspiring.
The President’s Cabinet and How It Grows by Elinor J Pinczes and Brian Laliberte
This informative and fun book guides kids through the history of American government and introduces the President’s Cabinet. It covers the roles and responsibilities of each of the President’s advisors and helps young readers understand the importance of each role. Keep your little one excited as they learn about the history and structure of the federal government through vibrant illustrations and easy-to-understand text.
The Election Book by Dan Gutman
This easy-to-read book written by Dan Gutman allows kids to explore the American election process. With a focus on the presidential election, this book educates readers on the history of the election process and the responsibilities of the President. It contains vibrant illustrations to help kids along, making it a great introduction to the political system.
My Fellow Americans by Christine Day
This thought-provoking book, My Fellow Americans, written by Christine Day and illustrated in beautiful watercolor, tackles the concepts of fairness, kindness, and respect in the rising political climate. This story of a young girl’s journey with her family to the polling station while confronting their interactions with people who have different views and beliefs is a powerful and meaningful way to introduce kids to these timely topics.
We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States by David Catrow
We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States is a humorous take on the Constitution of the United States. David Catrow’s whimsical illustrations and lighthearted rhymes bring to life one of the most important documents of American democracy. With 24 pages of unique visuals and kid-friendly text, this book is sure to keep your little readers engaged.
You and Your Vote by Jamie Sullivan and Meredith Hamilton
This is a great introduction to the history and processes of voting. The vibrant illustrations by Jamie Sullivan and Meredith Hamilton will captivate young minds, while the engaging and informative text help children learn key facts about how we elect our leaders and how we can make a difference through our vote.
We the People by Betsy Maestro and Giulio Maestro
In this inspiring book, Betsy and Giulio Maestro team up to introduce kids to the history of the United States and the power of the people. This fun and informative book is full of interactive features, such as pop-up maps and cutaway diagrams, to engage even the youngest of readers.
We hope this list of the 10 best kid’s books about elections, politics, and voting helps your children become more informed and engaged citizens of the world. As these books introduce children to the importance of their own voice and opinions, hopefully they’ll grow up with an understanding of how important it is to take an active role in democracy.