Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out

by Mary Brigid Barrett and National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance

This hefty tome is a treasure trove of tidbits and perspectives on the goings-on... read more

This hefty tome is a treasure trove of tidbits and perspectives on the goings-on at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Spanning more than two hundred years of history, the volume is a collection of reflections about the White House from 108 authors and illustrators. An introduction by historian David McCullough explores the idea that the President’s residence is also the home of the citizens—“It is our White House, after all. It is our story, after all.” These sentiments are echoed by the text and images that follow. A variety showcase, the offerings span multiple genres and include essays, poetry, documents, dialogue, artwork, and articles of imagination all designed to inform and inspire. The real gem in this collection is the variation of opinions presented on certain topics—for example, the differing views on how the portrait of George Washington was saved when the White House was torched by the British in 1814. Whether sampled like a smorgasbord or read section by section, this is a flavorful selection. (Age 9 and older)

© Cooperative Children's Book Center, Univ. of Wisconsin - Madison, 2009

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