America Gives Thanks

Gr 1-5– In this thoughtful companion book to America’s Dreaming, America joins their disappointed classmates on a field trip to Washington, D.C. Although America is excited, their friends would rather visit the ropes course like the other classes. As complaints ripple through the group, America turns to their teacher, Mr. Downs, who explains that while complaining is often seen as negative, it can also be the spark that leads to progress. The class visits key landmarks—the Supreme Court, the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Capitol—each stop introducing a historical figure who used their voice to create change. As Mr. Downs shares stories of advocacy and protest, America begins to imagine these changemakers whispering words of encouragement. The climax builds to a powerful chorus of voices, echoing the American tradition of disagreement as a driver of democracy—calling to mind the inclusive spirit of Walt Whitman’s “I Hear America Singing.” Phuong’s illustrations complement the story with exciting details: from the view of the Jefferson Memorial framed by cherry blossoms to a compelling perspective of the Capitol seen through a bus door. One especially powerful illustration places readers inside the Lincoln Memorial, looking out through the columns toward the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument. At the edge of the Memorial, silhouetted figures holding protest signs span the decades—an echo of marches past—suggesting that Lincoln himself has borne witness to the voices of change throughout history. This installment continues the series’ emphasis on introspection, growth, and belonging, now framed within a civic context. It offers young readers a nuanced message: disagreement and discourse are not only inevitable in a democracy, but necessary.