A few nights ago, I went to a “coffee, scones, and curriculum chat” with some fellow homeschooling mom friends, and I once again was reminded about how wonderful and powerful children’s books can be. If you’ve been around The Gingham Apron for long, you know how much I love children’s books, and today I’ve got some that I know you’ll really enjoy. (Scroll down to the bottom of this post to see lots more of our favorites.)
Some of my most favorite books for my kids from over the years have been those written and illustrated by Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire. As you can see, the pictures are vibrant, charming, and packed full of information. I especially love the illustrations of maps and animals that are so beautifully woven into each story.
Although the d’Aulaires, a married couple who immigrated to the United States in 1929, wrote and illustrated twenty-nine books for children, our family’s favorites are those that pertain to U.S. history. Earlier this year we read Benjamin Franklin, and then this month, since February contains Presidents’ Day, I’m reading Abraham Lincoln and George Washington to my boys. Reading living books about important historical heroes is so powerful! My kids (and I) always learn and retain so much.
And the writing in the books is absolutely delightful. The quotes, experiences from character’s childhood, and inviting stories really draw my kids into the story and help them to understand what circumstances made these special people who they really were. Today we learned that Abraham Lincoln was known to walk twenty miles to just borrow a book and how when he encountered slave mothers being parted from their children he stated, “that’s a disgrace.”
These books were published eighty years ago during what is called “the golden age of American Children’s literature.” They are such a finely crafted treasure! A verse that comes to mind as I educate my kids is this:
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
Excellent literature such as these books bring EXCELLENCE and NOBILITY into our lives. Introducing kids to people who lived praiseworthy and right lives builds the strength of their character. Grab one today and share it with your child, grandchild, or any other special young person. You’ll love these!
Other resources that will enrich your lives:
3 Excellent Picture Books About Adventure
