As election season rolls around, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce young readers to the important concepts of voting and civic engagement. Picture books are a wonderful way to make these topics accessible and engaging for children, helping them understand the significance of their voices in shaping the future.
This selection of recently released picture books explore voting and elections in a way that resonates with kids. These books cover everything from the basics of how elections work to the broader concepts of democracy and civic responsibility.
Related Reading: Time to Vote: Children's Books About Elections, Politics, and Civic Engagement (helpingkidsrise.org)
Why Picture Books About Voting Matter
Introducing children to the principles of voting and elections through picture books can foster an early appreciation for civic duty and democratic participation. These stories help simplify the process, making it relatable and engaging. By reading together, families can spark important conversations about the role each person plays in their community and the impact of their choices.
For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions with each book.
A moving look at a Black family's journey to exercise their right to vote and imagine a better future.
Charlie and Ralph's mom has waited a long time to vote because countless obstacles have been put in Black people's way to stop them from having a say in elections--obstacles that it took a lot of hard work to tear down. But now, in 1969, Madear is going to vote for the very first time, and the boys are coming along on this exciting day. A day that puts a new bounce in their mom's step and enables them all to begin to dream of a better future.
Wade Hudson and Don Tate give young readers a warm family story as well as a powerful glimpse into the struggle that had to be waged to achieve a fundamental right of citizenship.
From award-winning creators Winsome Bingham and E.B. Lewis, The Walk (A Stroll to the Poll) is a powerful picture book story celebrating a journey crucial to our democracy: the walk to vote. Perfect for sharing with young readers during election season.
Granny and her granddaughter are going on a walk. But this is not just any walk. It's a walk that must not be missed; one that is more important than ever but has been made increasingly difficult for many to participate in.
It's a walk that joins together a community; that lifts voices; that allows us to speak up, stand up, and say what's on our minds. It's a walk for hope.
Where are all these treasured souls going? Just WALK ON and find out.
Discover both the past and present day's fight to vote with Quetta Little as she learns the power of casting your vote in this ideal picture book from acclaimed author Leah Henderson and illustrator Keisha Morris. The perfect companion for any young reader during election year!
It's Election Day, and Quetta, her mother, and her grandmother embark on their journey to cast their vote. Trekking through their vibrant neighborhood, they meet obstacle after obstacle before--and after--reaching their voting station.
Unwilling to give up, Quetta's mother and grandmother teach her about the importance of voting and those who fought for their right--and Quetta comes to discover the power of raising her voice.
With warm illustrations, engaging text, and an insightful timeline, Your Voice, Your Vote will inspire readers to embrace this civic duty in the face of today's continued fight for voting rights.
Get out the vote! In this kid-friendly picture book introduction to voting and elections, Leo's father teaches him about the importance of every single vote, and how to use their voices to uplift their community.
Leo's dad is voting in his first election as a naturalized US citizen, and he promises to take Leo to the polls with him. Leo can't wait! But, after his cousin Ray casts doubt on the importance of a single vote, it'll take Leo's class mock election results, as well as a talk with his dad to convince him that each and every vote matters.
This lively picture book shows us how citizens decide who will be in charge, hitting key moments in an election, from voter registration to polling places, to staying in line, and features extensive backmatter for kids who want to dig deeper.
What you say (and how you say it) has the power to change the world. Democracy gives you that power. Democracy is people power.
But does democracy really matter? How does it work? And what exactly is democracy, anyway?! Get set to speak up and learn how you can create positive change in your corner of the world.
Democracy! is full of fascinating and engaging information about elections, voting and political systems, and provides young readers with easily digestible information about the importance of their voice.
Created by internationally bestselling author-illustrator Philip Bunting, Democracy! is filled with handy tips on how to engage in community discussions, from petitions to peaceful protests, and explains the history of democracy in a funny and positive way.
The third book in the #1 New York Times bestselling and NAACP Image Award-winning Stacey's Stories picture book series, from Stacey Abrams and artist Kitt Thomas.
Stacey and her friends can't wait for lunchtime on Friday, also known as TacoPizza FryDay! But when Stacey discovers that some of her classmates can't afford to eat lunch, she loses her appetite. She knows she has to do something . . . but what can a kid do? Plenty, as it turns out! With the help of their community, Stacey and her friends devise a plan to make their voices heard.
Inspired by Stacey Abrams's legacy of grassroots activism and advocacy, this is a story about how everyone has the power to make a difference.
Told in warm, inviting rhyme, this gentle introduction to community organizing and finding your place in a movement is perfect for young readers of All Are Welcome and What Do You Do With an Idea?.
Welcome to our Community Day!
Ready to find your role to play?
It's Community Day in a close-knit, diverse neighborhood, and everybody is pitching in to help one another. All the kids want to know where they fit in. Could they be builders, restoring old furniture for new neighbors? Caregivers, nurturing friends who are sad or lonely? Frontline responders, preparing for emergencies?
What they discover is that there's a place for every person, no matter their skills or interests--and that collaboration is what makes their community strong.
Etta can't think of anything more extraordinary than a field trip to the nation's presidential suite in Washington, DC. When she and her class arrive at the White House, they are faced with a decision: What activity should they choose? With the spirit of democracy in the air, the class submits their ballots and Etta's brilliant idea gets picked: a pinktastic cherry blossom party on the White House lawn.
And in 1, 2, 3, 4 steps, she plans a spectacular party, where absolutely nothing can go wrong . . . right?
In this dazzling encore to Etta Extraordinaire, Etta and her friends learn about the power of using their voices, the importance of making decisions together, and the incredible strength that lies within each of them.
Perfect for fans of Busy Betty, Grace for President, and Stella Keeps the Sun Up.
By incorporating these picture books into your reading routine, you can help young readers understand the importance of participating in elections and making informed choices. These stories not only entertain but also empower children with knowledge about their role in a democratic society.
So, grab a few of these books, gather the family, and start a conversation about voting and elections that will inspire and educate your little ones. Happy reading!
Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists:
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