Customer Reviews

First Family

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FIRST FAMILY introduces young readers to the American president's family at home, at work and at play in the White House. Presented mostly through the eyes of daughters Malia and Sasha, FIRST FAMILY describes the similarities in the everyday life of the First Family and other American families. FIRST FAMILY also shows how Malia and Sasha's life differs from other children, helping young readers to imagine how their lives might change were they to be children of the American president.

Deborah Hopkinson's FIRST FAMILY focuses on themes of family, the White House and the continuity of American history. For the first time in many years, young children are residents of the White House and what better way to introduce children to the notion of the Presidency, the White House and American history than through the eyes of the children who live there! With words and images, Deborah Hopkinson and Ag Ford emphasize the role of family. Despite their new home, Malia and Sasha are children with lives grounded in the family. Values of healthy eating, exercise, doing homework and cleaning one's room emerge from the picture painted of the First Family's life together but not to the exclusion of playful fun and family togetherness. FIRST FAMILY presents a wholesome, positive role model of the family for children readers.

The beauty and uniqueness of FIRST FAMILY as a young children's book centers around the portrayal of the White House, a living museum which houses items that connect each generation of Americans. With images and words, American history comes alive. The description and illustration of the Resolute Desk, a desk also used by Presidents Kennedy, Clinton and Bush gives young readers (and adults reading aloud to children) a moving look at the importance of the history of this country. Not only is America a country with a rich historical legacy but also a nation with a sense of continuity between past and present. Illustrations of the White House portray the grandeur of the building itself and the impressive furniture inside. Two pages of White House and First Family Trivia, facts and fun conclude this inspiring book thus once again connecting past and present. FIRST FAMILY does an excellent job at humanizing the family while also honoring the rich legacy of American history.

COURTESY OF BOOK ILLUMINATIONS

If you enjoyed the artwork from the New York times best seller "Barack"(illustrated by Ag Ford) then I have no doubt that you will enjoy "First Family" which was also illustrated by Ford. It's a good read for children and educational as well. I have seen some of Ag's work up close and just from viewing the artwork I can tell that the illustrations in this book where created with great effort that show his passion for his craft. The story (written by Deborah Hopkinson) gives the reader an aspect on the entire family of Barack, which most can appreciate. I highly recommend it.

First Family is a good book to introduce young children to life in the White House because it features Malia and Sasha Obama. The book utilizes clear illustrations and interesting content to inform the reader about the First Family. The cover depicts the Obamas, their dog Bo and invites readers to learn more about them.

Most of the book is set in or on the grounds of the White House. There is a cut away view of the house showing many of its famous rooms. The book reveals places that Malia and Sasha like to explore. The Green Room, the Blue Room, the State Dining Room, the Queen's bedroom, secret passageways, the bowling alley and movie theater. Outside, the girls play on their swing set, run with Bo and greet the President when his helicopter lands on the lawn.

The illustrations are realistic drawings that support the text and transport the reader into White House life. Malia and Sasha set their alarm clocks, make their beds and complete other chores. On weekdays, they go to school with their grandmother and secret service agents. The President works in the Oval Office, travels on Air Force One, eats with his family, helps with homework and exercises with Michele in the gym. The First Lady works in her office, devotes time to community service events, hosts dinners and cares for the kitchen garden.

First Family provides enough detail to learn about the First Family and the White House. There are pages listing White House facts, First Family trivia, an aerial view of the grounds and the White House web address. The book introduces young readers to the presidency and the White House. It will appeal to children because Malia and Sasha are prominently featured throughout the book.

I was disappointed in the poor sentance structure throughout this book. There's a reason publishing companies employ editors and this book definitely needed one. How disappointing that this book did not maintain the basic standards of the English language. I will not be sharing it with my granddaughter because I do not want her to get the impression it is acceptable to have incomplete thoughts as a complete sentance, nor drop using commas, etc. It was disappointing to read this book. Hard to believe the author previously received awards and let so many grammar erros slip by. Why????