This is a great and engaging book for students learning about the beginnings of America. I think this would be a great book to start a student out with a research project. They would be able to get so much information on all sorts of symbols used in the very first years of establishing America. ( )

This book can be read independently by students. It would be a really good book for students to use to connect to a history class if they are learning about America and American history. They can use this book to gather information about the different symbols that we have. Some of the symbols the students may be familiar with, and there are some that maybe they have heard of, but do not know why it is a symbol for America. Students should pay attention to the illustrations that are shown in the book especially since they are in black and white. Have them think about why that may be. This book can be used with a 3rd grade or up class and it may even be able to be used by 2nd graders. I would use it in older grades because of the content that it is covering and that is closer to what they will be learning in those grades. You can talk about the order of events and how each symbol was introduced at different times based on what may have been going on. 3rd grade standards: (informational 7, 8) 4th grade standards: (informational 6, 7)

Age Range: 8 and up
Grade Level: 3 and up

A wonderfully instructive look at 17 American patriotic symbols.
I found it a good learning tool for the young mind and an excellent review for the adult.
A few of the points of discussion include the flag, the eagle, the capitol, various memorials etc.

...definitely worth your consideration..... ( )

This book neatly collects the origins of some of the most famous monuments and symbols in American culture. The Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the "Star-Spangled Banner" are just a few of the icons delivered in this easily read book. With comedic illustrations that add a light-hearted touch to the historical accounts. This book could easily fit in between Social Studies and Reading lessons. ( )

Bateman details iconic American symbols and monuments in short, easy-to-read chapters. Her descriptions are aided by lively black and white drawings that are goofy and fun to look at. This might not be a book that a student would want to pick up and read in one sitting, but it would make for a useful resource when studying one or two certain American symbols. The table of contents and index makes it easy to find whatever symbol a reader is looking for. ( )