Explore democracy and citizenship through the power of story.
Honesty. Justice. Perseverance. Activism. Political season or not, these principles of citizenship are essential lessons to discuss with our children.
Check out our collection of books to fuel a movement, for even more books about standing up for social justice.
NEW! Members enjoy exclusive access to DGT’s toolkit for civic engagement, perfect for families who want a thoughtful way to make a difference. Also available for purchase in the DGT Store.
Talk about the issue.
If we live in a free country, can we do whatever we want, whenever we want?
What does it mean to live in a community with others? What rules (laws) does a society need to run smoothly?
What should we do if we notice something that is unfair in our community?
Make a list of characteristics a good leader should have. Make a list of the characteristics a good citizen should have. How are these lists the same? How are they different?
Make a short list of things you, as a family, would like to change about your community, state, or country. What action could you take today to begin working toward those changes?
Featured Title
Marley Dias Gets It Done: And So Can You! by Marley Dias
Drawing from her experience leading the #1000blackgirlbooks campaign, Marley shows kids how they can galvanize their strengths to make positive changes in their communities. Full of key insights about volunteerism, social justice, equity, and tips to use social media to do good, this book is perfect for any kid interested in becoming a changemaker.
Ages 10 and up.
More DGT Favorites
The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge by M.T. Anderson
This extraordinary middle-grade book takes real-world concepts of community, anarchy, and cultural misunderstandings and plunges them into a Tolkein-esque fantasy world. At once moving and hilarious, this book is sure to engage readers who resist realistic fiction in conversations that spark civic engagement. Ages 10 and up.
Annie Glover is NOT a Tree Lover by Darleen Bailey Beard
Annie Glover’s grandma IS a tree lover, committed to saving a century old tree from being cut down to make way for a swimming pool. Annie doesn’t like the unwanted attention, or the teasing she endures about her grandmother’s activism. But she finds herself wanting to do what she can to protect Elmer. This endearing, zany example of active citizenship makes a great read-aloud. Ages 7 to 10.
Declare Yourself by various authors
Geared at teens, Declare Yourself was created by 55 actors, musicians, athletes, writers, and political figures to demonstrate the importance of voting to young people. Contributors include Alice Walker, Maya Angelou, and America Ferrera. Ages 13 and up.
The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora by Pablo Cartaya
This book captures the challenges and obligations of active citizenship in an amazing fictional adventure. Both funny and thought-provoking, The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora is the captivating story of a family, their town, and one boy's quest to step up and save them both. Ages 10 and up.
How I Resist: Activism and Hope for a New Generation by Maureen Johnson
This all-star collection of essays, songs, illustrations, and interviews is designed to remind young readers that they are not helpless, and that anyone can be the change. Ages 12 and up.
How the U.S. Government Works… and How it All Comes Together to Make a Nation by Syl Sobel
A newly-updated guide to the workings of the U.S. government. Ages 8 to 12.
The Kid Who Ran for President and The Kid Who Became President, both by Dan Gutman
What would happen if a kid became the President of the United States? Find out in Dan Gutman’s story of Judson Moon, a sixth-grader whose exciting adventure into politics gives young readers a chance to ponder the rules of government and campaigning. Ages 8 to 12.
The Larry Series by Janet Tashjian
This teen series, especially book two Vote for Larry, does a thought-provoking and page-turning job of exploring how one person can effect change. Ages 13 and up.
President of the Whole 5th Grade by
Sherri Winston
This hilarious, heartfelt novel illuminates the election process while inspiring determined kids to work hard, as well as ethically, to achieve their dreams. Ages 8 and up.
The President's Daughter by Ellen Emerson White
This series originally debuted in 1984, and has since been updated and reworked to appeal to a modern audience. Great for grades seven and up, this earnest portrayal of a first family during a female presidency reveals as much about the American political system as it does about family bonds. Even better, it does all of this with countless laugh-out-loud moments. Ages 13 and up.
Nothing but the Truth by Avi
In this Newbery Honor Book, one ninth grader’s seemingly small act of rebellion leads to an epic battle between his parents and his school, which ultimately causes scandal across the nation. The unique format of this book – as a collection of newspaper articles, journal entries, and letters –make it fun to read, and it is sure to spark a meaningful conversation about honesty as well as over-reaction. Ages 12 and up.
Operation Yes by Sara Lewis Holmes.
Set on an Air Force Base during the Iraq War, this inspiring story introduces readers to an inspiring teacher, a curious classroom, and ultimately, a nationwide fundraiser to support injured troops. Ages 9 to 12.
The Presidency (True Books) by Christine Taylor Butler
An introduction to the presidency and the executive branch of government. Ages 8 to 10.
The United States Constitution: What It Says, What It Means: A Hip Pocket Guide by JusticeLearning.org
An in-depth look at the entire text of the U. S. Constitution, annotated with detailed explanations of its terms and contents. Each Amendment and Article is accompanied by sidebar material on the history of its application, including profiles of important Supreme Court cases, texts of related primary source documents, and contemporary news articles. Double page timelines for several of the Articles and all the Amendments highlight important events and legal cases. Ages 12 and up.
We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices by Wade Hudson
Fifty of the our favorite (and diverse) children's authors and illustrators share answers to the question, "In this divisive world, what shall we tell our children? Ages 8 to 12.
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
Set in the tumultuous period of the late sixties, this Newbery Honor book provides plenty of material for deeper conversations about patriotism, freedom, and justice. Ages 8 to 12.
The White House for Kids: A History of a Home, Office, and National Symbol, with 21 Activities by Katherine L. House
Take a tour of the White House and learn about its history. Ages 9 and up.
You are Mighty: A Guide to Changing the World by Caroline Paul
From the author of The Gutsy Girl, this thoughtful guide to activism is a wonderful gift any big-hearted kids. Paul expertly weaves a vast collection of DIY activities with inspiring stories of kids and famous changemakers. Ages 10 and up.
You Want Women to Vote, Lizzie Stanton? by Jean Fritz, illustrated by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan
This biography of 19th century feminist Elizabeth Cady Stanton is a fun way to learn about the women’s suffrage movement and what it takes to stand up for what you believe in. Ages 8 to 12.
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