I Pledge Allegiance

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Author(s)

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Patrice Barton

Publisher

Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

April 22, 2014

ISBN

9780307931818

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Patriotism across the generations as a little girl and her great aunt learn the Pledge of Allegiance together. Libby's great aunt, Lobo, is from Mexico, but the United States has been her home for many years, and she wants to become a U.S. citizen. At the end of the week, Lobo will say the Pledge of Allegiance at a special ceremony. Libby is also learning the Pledge this week, at school-at the end of the week, she will stand up in front of everyone and lead the class in the Pledge. Libby and Lobo practice together-asking questions and sharing stories and memories-until they both stand tall and proud, with their hands over their hearts.

Editor reviews

2 reviews

Touching and meaningful.

August 30, 2014

Overall rating

5.0

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Characters

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Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

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I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE is the perfect choice for kindergarten and preschool classes learning the pledge of allegiance, with themes of patriotism, intergenerational friendships, and immigration. It would also be a great book for Independence Day storytimes at libraries, as it features several places where listeners can join in saying the pledge aloud.

The story is well-told, with a nuanced plot and situations that kids can relate to. Everyone feels nervous about standing in front of the class, and even though Libby enjoys being up front she still has to cope with that feeling. We also see Libby helping with dinner, gardening with her family, and sharing memories with her great-aunt Lobo. Hearing Lobo's feelings and history about coming to the United States is so meaningful and heart-warming! It really puts issues of immigration and citizenship into perspective.

The illustrations by Patrice Barton are lovely. The colors are very warm and all the soft and round edges are welcoming. The characters are nicely done; it's particularly cute how much Libby looks like her mother and her great-aunt. They're an adorable little family!

The authors' note at the end of the book tells the story of Ygnacia Delgado, the woman that great-aunt Lobo is modeled after. After reading such a touching story it is made even more meaningful when we learn that Lobo was a real person.