Book Review: The Story of the Pledge of Allegiance by John Hudson Tiner

A small, straightforward picture book The Story of the Pledge of Allegiance tells the history of how the pledge came to be, how it has changed over the years, and how it is used in the United States.  Did you know that the phrase “Under God” wasn’t even added until 1954 by Dwight Eisenhower?  Me neither.

I enjoyed this little book, but I have to admit I do wish it was a large size picture book because the illustrations are just gorgeous and the text is perfect as an advanced picture book for upper elementary and junior high students.  I loved the text and read it from cover to cover because the information was so interesting and I didn’t know any of it!

As you study the 4th of July, or search for ways to encourage patriotism in your children this book can be a big help.  One focus of the book is to emphasize the parts of the pledge that come from our Christian heritage, and the faith in action from the men instrumental in it’s writing.

A quick and easy reader or read aloud, the book also has a series of questions and activities at the end that help expand the learning experience and encourage patriotism.  Also included in the book are several sidebar type sections that have miniature biographies or tangent but complimentary information about the flag.  I didn’t know anything about Flag Day either, and now I know why lots of people fly their flag on June 14th.  I’ve walked out of my house a couple times and wondered why there was suddenly a prevalence of flags flying.

My bottom line: Had I run across this book in a bookstore I would have bought it immediately based on content alone.  I do like this little book and appreciate that the size keeps the price tag just right.  I wish it was more of a traditional picture book size.  I don’t know if you can tell from my pictures but it is about 6×4.  Even so the content is outstanding and the illustrations are wonderful as well.  I don’t think you will be disappointed.  It will be mandatory reading for my junior high students this year.

Disclaimer:  This book was provided for me for free as part of the New Leaf Publishing Company’s blogger review program.  All that is required of me is an honest, unbiased review.  Here you have it.