Our White House

More than one hundred leading authors and illustrators donate their talents in a creative tour de force that is making history.

Conceived and co-created by the National Children’s Book and Literary Alliance, this outstanding collection of essays, personal accounts, historical fiction, and poetry melds with an equally stunning array of original art to offer a look at America’s history through the prism of the White House. Starting with a 1792 call for designers and continuing through the present day, these highly engaging writings and illustrations, expressing varied viewpoints and interwoven with key historical events, are a vital resource for family and classroom sharing — and a stirring reminder that the story of the White House is the story of every American.
Back matter includes source notes, notes on contributor, and an index.

“Fascinating information, challenging ideas, and appealing artwork. --School Library Journal (starred review) Among the most provocative entries are works by artists who 'look in' on the White House with a demonstrably personal vision: David Small shares color sketches of 'backstairs at the White House,' a study in contrasts; Bob Kolar arranges the presidents as if on a board game, with clever annotations (who knew President Arthur held a yard sale while in office?)...the volume makes the invaluable point that history does not have to be remote or abstract, but a personal and ongoing engagement. --Publishers Weekly (starred review) Unique bits and pieces (including Jefferson's fascination with fossils and William Henry Harrison's purchase of a national cow) create a browser's dream as readers explore the nooks and crannies of American history --The Horn Book (starred review)”

Fascinating information, challenging ideas, and appealing artwork.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

Among the most provocative entries are works by artists who 'look in' on the White House with a demonstrably personal vision: David Small shares color sketches of 'backstairs at the White House,' a study in contrasts; Bob Kolar arranges the presidents as if on a board game, with clever annotations (who knew President Arthur held a yard sale while in office?)...the volume makes the invaluable point that history does not have to be remote or abstract, but a personal and ongoing engagement.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Unique bits and pieces (including Jefferson’s fascination with fossils and William Henry Harrison’s purchase of a national cow) create a browser’s dream as readers explore the nooks and crannies of American history
—The Horn Book (starred review)

The National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance is a not-for-profit literacy organization founded in 1997 by Mary Brigid Barrett and composed of award-winning children's authors and illustrators, including M. T. Anderson, Natalie Babbitt, Susan Cooper, Nikki Grimes, Steven Kellogg, David Macaulay, Patricia MacLachlan, Gregory Maguire, Patricia and Fredrick McKissack, Linda Sue Park, and Katherine Paterson. For more information about the NCBLA's goals and activities,

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