The Declaration of Independence from A to Z [Hardcover]

Catherine Osornio (Author), Layne Johnson (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 21, 2010 | Grade Level: 1 and up

J is for Jefferson and S is for signatures in this illustrated children's picture book that traces the events leading up to the Declaration of Independence and its subsequent profound impact. Unlike alphabet books that string together unrelated facts, this one actually tells the story of how our nation's founding document came to be.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 1–4—Using an alphabetic format, Osornio provides a basic chronological overview of events surrounding the issuance of the Declaration of Independence. Unfamiliar terms are defined within the entries. The illustrations vary between large-scale spreads and smaller individual pictures. The design unpredictability holds readers' interest and allows letters to correspond more closely to the images. Accurate historical details in the paintings help illuminate the period. Unfortunately, there are some problems. Pictorial focal points, such as the map of the 13 colonies and John Hancock's signature, are sometimes lost in the gutter, and text placed over dark picture areas is difficult to read. No sources, bibliography, or index are included, which limits the book's use for research. The complete text of the Declaration is not included, either. As part of a class study, the book could be used to introduce the topic, to supplement more straightforward texts, or as a writing or research prompt.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA
(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

About the Author

Catherine L. Osornio assisted in developing a reading program for Downey Child Care Center, targeting second through sixth graders. She has written more than sixty short stories for the program. Actively involved in the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, Osornio has contributed articles to Clubhouse Jr. and Discovery Years, both Focus on the Family publications, and was a columnist for Crossmap.com.

A professional artist and graphic designer, Layne Johnson has created art for more than a dozen children's books, several of which have earned him honors and awards, including the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award winner Brian's Bird. He earned a bachelor of fine arts from the University of Houston.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Pelican Publishing (January 21, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 158980676X
• ISBN-13: 978-1589806764
• Product Dimensions: 11 x 8.7 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #619,390 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Bound to make a splash of fireworks wherever it lands, in libraries, schools, and private homes, March 20, 2010

By 

Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Declaration of Independence from A to Z (Hardcover)

"The Declaration of Independence from A to Z" is the perfect Fourth of July primer for preschoolers and elementary age children. It is the easiest way to teach American history since 1776. "A is for America," of course, and "B is for Boston Tea Party, C is for Continental Congress," these are all givens and basics in Revolutionary history. But did you know "T is for Timothy Matlack," the assistant to Secretary Charles Thomson, who carefully copied the Declaration of Independence? How about "G is for grievances," or "O is for oath," or "M is for Majority?" There are a few surprises or well kept secrets even at the heart of America's Revolutionary past that come to light in "The Declaration of Independence from A to Z." the pageantry of history is well portrayed in full color two page paintings throughout this amazing alphabet American history primer. "The Declaration of Independence from A to Z" is bound to make a splash of fireworks wherever it lands, in libraries, schools, and private homes.

5.0 out of 5 stars A is for Amazing Book!, February 5, 2010

By 

Nancy I. Sanders (CA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Declaration of Independence from A to Z (Hardcover)

From A to Z, this book sings with the spirit that motivated our nation's founding fathers and mothers to be the forerunners of freedom that they were. The history of how the Declaration of Independence was written is presented from A to Z and also in chronological order, so it's perfect for young Americans to follow. The text is powerful and inspirational for kids as well as parents, teachers, and librarians. Plus, the artwork is superb. A perfect addition to a classroom library.