Kid Konnection: I Pledge Allegiance

Every Saturday, I host a feature called Kid Konnection -- a regular weekend feature about anything related to children's books. This week, I'm going to share with you a very special picture book.

Summary: 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. -- Knopf

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE by Pat Mora and Libby Martinez and illustrated by Patrice Barton is a wonderful book that's guaranteed to warm every American's heart! Libby's great aunt Lobo was born in Mexico, but she wants to become a U.S. citizen. Lobo has passed her test and, at the end of the week, she will say the Pledge of Allegiance and become an American citizen at a special ceremony.

Libby is also learning the pledge in school and the teacher has asked her to say the Pledge in front of the entire class so she will be ready to share her great aunt's special day. Libby and Lobo practice the Pledge together as they share special times and reflect on precious memories. At the end of the story, both Libby and Lobo say the Pledge and show how wonderful it is to be an American.

I thought I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE was a great book and perfect for the classroom. The book is based on the authors' real life aunt, and that made it all the more special to me! It's a wonderful book that is both educational and touching, and I just loved it.

Not only does I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE reference the Pledge numerous times so children can learn it along with the characters in the story, but it also shows the importance of patriotism and family bonds. Often times, I think we take things for granted in today's society, and this little book reminds parents and kids alike how fortunate we are to live in this country.

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE shows how America truly is a melting-pot and why immigrants still desire to not only live here but to become citizens. I loved that the author included some Spanish words and mentioned some Spanish traditions because it really hit home the idea that individuals can retain their old customs while becoming an American.

Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy of this book.

If you'd like to participate in Kid Konnection and share a post about anything related to children's books (picture, middle grade, or young adult) from the past week, please leave a comment as well as a link below with your name/blog name and the title of the book! Feel free to grab the little button too!