Our latest issue of Honest History Magazine is out! In Issue 32 | Building America, kids can take a journey back in time to investigate the fascinating history of the American Revolution. With each turn of the page, they’ll uncover the extraordinary stories of the famous founders, soldiers, and everyday people who helped build a new nation.
As always, we’re sharing some additional materials to help kids and parents dive deeper. Use the resources below to learn more about the United States’ revolutionary past.
Researchers and Aspiring Academics
Here are some helpful texts to get you started on your research journey.
Daily Life During the American Revolution by Dorothy Denneen Volo and James M. Volo: What was life really like during the founding of the United States? This comprehensive text explores the everyday experiences of soldiers and civilians during the American Revolution. It is an excellent choice for both casual readers and serious history enthusiasts wanting to understand the era beyond the battlefield.
From Slaves to Soldiers: The 1st Rhode Island Regiment in the American Revolution by Robert A. Geake: In Issue 32, we dove into the story of the remarkable 1st Rhode Island Regiment. Curious to learn more? This book uncovers the incredible stories of Black and Indigenous soldiers who fought for independence. Researchers can also browse primary source material from the Rhode Island State Archives to continue their historical journey.
Masquerade: The Life and Times of Deborah Sampson, Continental Soldier by Alfred F. Young: Want to learn more about the women who fought in the Revolutionary War? This text offers a fascinating look into the life of Deborah Sampson, a soldier who disguised herself as a man to serve in the Continental Army. It is an essential read for those looking to uncover the hidden figures of early American history.
American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence by Pauline Maier: In Issue 32, kids got to peek into what it was like to write the Declaration of Independence. Get the full story in this approachable text. Maier’s thorough overview delves into the political and cultural aspects that shaped one of US history’s most famous documents.
Declaration of Independence by John Trumbull
Parents and Educators
Explore these free online resources to build lesson plans for your home or classroom.
Museum of the American Revolution: This online resource is packed with information for kids interested in the American Revolution. You can go on a virtual tour of George Washington’s tent or explore the museum's extensive at-home activities and digital classroom resources. With engaging mini-lesson plans, it is a fantastic tool for building your home or classroom curriculum.
National Archives: Want to add some primary sources to your curriculum? Explore the National Archives’ rich collection in its virtual exhibits. View historic documents, like the Declaration of Independence as well as maps, letters, and eye-witness accounts of the American Revolution.
The American Revolution Institute: Educators and students can dive into this institute’s primary source collections and thematic lesson plans that teach through real documents and artifacts. They also offer an engaging traveling trunk program where classrooms receive a trunk full of reproduction clothing, objects, and documents for a hands-on experience of the American Revolution.
American Battlefield Trust: Embark on a virtual field trip with 360-degree battleground tours and animated maps. The American Battlefield Trust offers a comprehensive Revolutionary War curriculum with modules and lesson plans broken down by grade level. It is a tried-and-true resource for educators looking to bring history to life.
Battle of Lexington by Amos Doolittle. Image from New York Public Library Digital Collections
Young Historians
When it comes to the American Revolution, there are plenty of kids’ books to choose from! Here are some of our top picks.
Independent Dames: What You Never Knew About the Women and Girls of the American Revolution by Laurie Halse Anderson and illustrated by Matt Faulkner: In this illustrated book, curious kids can explore the lesser-known stories of the women and girls who helped build a nation. From spies to fund-raisers, it provides a fantastic glimpse into the daily lives and heroic deeds of America's founding mothers.
A Ben of All Trades: The Most Inventive Boyhood of Benjamin Franklin by Michael J. Rosen and illustrated by Matt Tavares: Explore the childhood of one of America’s most famous Founding Fathers. Inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s own autobiography, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of the young inventor as he follows his endless curiosity to discover exactly what he wants to be when he grows up.
A Parade for George Washington by David A. Adler and illustrated by John O'Brien: Take a journey to the past with this vibrant picture book. Kids can follow along as the country honors George Washington with a grand parade, exploring the exciting atmosphere of early America. It's an engaging resource for young readers interested in the leaders of the Revolution.
A Voice of Her Own: The Story of Phillis Wheatley, Slave Poet by Kathryn Lasky and illustrated by Paul Lee: In this beautifully told story, kids discover the life of Phillis Wheatley, a young enslaved girl who became a celebrated poet. The book's stunning illustrations and poetic text help bring her courageous journey back to life.
Spies of the American Revolution: An Interactive Espionage Adventure by Elizabeth Raum: Did you know that spies played a massive role in the Revolutionary War? In this interactive book, kids can uncover the world of secret codes, hidden messages, and daring espionage.
If you want to learn more about the American Revolution, we hope you’ll check out our kids' magazine, Issue 32 | Building America. Stay tuned as we continue to share research tips and resources for future issues!