Synergy: Adventures in the US

The UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is a country containing fifty states, a federal district, five territories, nine outlying islands, and 326 Indian reservations.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to the topic. Explore these recently published nonfiction picture books for children:

The “Only in” the 50 States series written by Heather Alexander and illustrated by Jen Taylor features weird and wonderful facts about each state. Each two-page spread highlights a place, historical topic, natural area, or other interesting feature. From amazing natural landscapes to fascinating cities and rural areas, this engaging series celebrates the unique aspects of each state.

ONLY IN CALIFORNIA is the first book in this new nonfiction series. Through interesting illustrations, fascinating facts, and intriguing infographics, readers learn about the sports, food, plants, animals, history, and key people of the Golden State.

ONLY IN TEXAS highlights the interesting features of the Lone Star State. This second book in the 50 States series explores the culture, history, and nature of the second-largest US state. Topics include cultural landmarks and traditions, natural landscapes, products, and history through facts, illustrations, and infographics.

Related books include ONLY IN AMERICA and 50 ADVENTURES IN THE 50 STATES.

ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, part of a Quarto Group.

Synergy: Abraham Lincoln

ABRAHAM LINCOLN (1809-1865) served as the 16th president of the United States. Leading the nation during the American Civil War, he abolished slavery, preserved the nation, and modernized the economy. He was assassinated just days before the end of the war.

Read the recently published work of nonfiction for middle grades, then learn more at the websites:

MR. LINCOLN SITS FOR HIS PORTRAIT by Leonard S. Marcus uses a historical photograph to jumpstart a discussion of Abraham Lincoln and a day in this life. The author’s use of historical photos, artifacts, and timelines along with the short text blocks will draw the attention of young readers. In addition, youth will enjoy the way Lincoln’s son Tad is woven into the narrative. This book provides an engaging alternative to the many traditional Lincoln biographies already available in the library. ARC courtesy of Farrar, Straus and Giroux, an imprint of Macmillan.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN is an article from National Geographic Kids providing an introduction to Abraham Lincoln.

To read the article, go to https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/abraham-lincoln.

THE MASK OF LINCOLN is an online exhibit from the National Portrait Gallery sharing photographs of Lincoln during his presidency.

To explore the exhibit, go to https://npg.si.edu/exhibit/lincoln/.