This election season, use engaging children’s books to teach kids ages 3-12 about voting and civic engagement. These must-read picture books and chapter books on democracy, choosing candidates, and voting rights history will educate and inspire young citizens. Make the most of this opportunity to instill civic responsibility and highlight how far we’ve come when it comes to the right to vote. Whether reading at home, in class, or the library, these fantastic titles will get kids excited about key lessons on the democratic process.
Vote for Me! By Ben Clanton (Age 3-5)
In this hilarious political satire by Dave Horowitz, a donkey and elephant resort to mudslinging and insults while fiercely vying for your vote, until a surprise third-party whiskered candidate prevails in the election showdown.
V is for Voting by Kate Farrell (Age 3-5)
This empowering ABC book introduces concepts like social justice and civil rights, while reminding that every vote counts. With rhyming text and bold art, it highlights democracy tenets and the importance of civic participation through voting and activism, making it a crucial addition for young activists’ libraries.
Vote for our Future! By Margaret Mcnamara (Age 5-8)
Every two years, Stanton Elementary transforms into a polling station so community members can vote and inspire change. Though its students are too young to vote, they eagerly encourage loved ones, knowing that voting empowers laws and leaders to shape the future.
In 1916, courageous suffragettes Nell and Alice drove 10,000 miles spreading the message “Votes for Women!” Armed with a tiny typewriter and sewing machine, they braved blizzards, deserts, and naysayers, tirelessly advocating state-to-state for the equal voting rights cause. This inspiring historical trip is revived through a lively picture book with exuberant illustrations.
Lillian’s Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act by Jonah Winter (Age 5-9)
This poignant picture book shares 100-year-old Lillian’s tumultuous family voting history, as she treks uphill to cast her ballot, recalling civil rights milestones from the Fifteenth Amendment to Selma. Her fierce determination inspires as she makes her voice heard, published for the Voting Rights Act’s 50th anniversary.
Newbery Honor author Susan Campbell Bartoletti and illustrator Ziyue Chen vividly chronicle the little-known 1913 DC Women’s March led by suffragists, Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. Their captivating storytelling and extensive research bring to life the activists’ hunger strikes, jail time, and tireless efforts to win voting rights for American women.
This New York Times bestseller reveals untold stories of diverse unsung heroines who fought for women’s voting rights, featuring portraits and biographies of activists like Zitkála-Šá, Mary Church Terrell, and Mabel Ping-Hua Lee. Published for the 19th amendment’s 100th anniversary, it celebrates those who helped change America.
This story chronicles take-charge Jeannette Rankin, America’s first congresswoman, who pioneered for voting rights after leading efforts to improve conditions for poor children. Her activist journey from securing women’s suffrage in Montana to being elected to Congress will inspire young change-makers.
This inspiring biography spotlights Barbara Jordan’s journey from childhood orator to civil rights icon, as her bold, confident voice paved her path as an attorney, Texas legislator, and the first African American congresswoman from the Deep South. Despite adversity, she persevered in the fight for equality.
This election season, share the gift of civic education and motivation by exploring these wonderful children’s books spotlighting democracy in action. Through compelling stories and vibrant illustrations, kids will gain a deeper understanding of the privileges and responsibilities central to our rights as citizens. By instilling values like civil engagement and inclusive participation early on, we can equip the next generation with knowledge to be dedicated voters and passionate change-makers. These books shine a light on how far we’ve come as a nation, while also affirming the vision of progress still ahead. Let the journey begin by turning the pages together and making each child feel heard!
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