President’s Day is right around the corner, which means it’s the perfect time to teach your students about the incredible leaders who’ve shaped our country. But let’s be honest, when it comes to history, some students might need a little extra spark to stay engaged. That’s where a great read-aloud comes in!
The right book can transport your students to the past, spark meaningful conversations, and even inspire a little laughter along the way. Whether you’re looking for humor, history, or a fresh perspective on what it takes to be a leader, these 10 President’s Day-themed read-alouds are perfect for bringing the holiday to life in your classroom.
From silly stories to nonfiction gems, this list has something for every grade level. So grab your favorite chair, gather your students, and get ready to dive into these presidential picks!
Before diving in, I want to mention that while I’ve linked each book on Amazon for your convenience, I’m not an affiliate and don’t earn a commission if you decide to purchase. If I were in your shoes, I’d check out your local library or school library first — you might just save a few dollars!
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd
This fun and lighthearted story tells the tale of how George Washington came to have false teeth. It’s short enough to hold younger students’ attention and packed with delightful rhymes (and I’m a sucker for a rhyming book). The timeline at the end of the book offers a chance to explore George Washington’s life even further, making it both entertaining and educational.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 5th
This book takes a humorous look at the childhood traits of John Hancock, Paul Revere, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson. These unique qualities later helped shape their roles in declaring independence from England. The true/false section at the end is a fun way to test students’ early American history knowledge, and the book makes a great introduction to a writing project. Have students write about their own unique traits and how they might make them great leaders!
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd
Another wonderful pick by Lane Smith, this book humorously introduces young readers to the many responsibilities of the president. It’s an accessible and engaging way to start conversations about government roles. Plus, the playful tone keeps students entertained while they learn.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 3rd
This beautifully illustrated book provides a brief overview of President Lincoln’s life. It covers his childhood, young adulthood, and presidency, giving students a glimpse into the journey of one of America’s greatest leaders. While the narrative may feel a bit choppy at times, it’s still a great resource for teaching about Lincoln.
Perfect for: 2nd – 5th
This nonfiction book dives into the duties of the president with clear explanations and engaging photographs of modern presidents in action. Its short chapters make it suitable for younger readers, while the thought-provoking questions and extension activities are ideal for older students.
Perfect for: 3rd – 5th
This book offers a fascinating perspective on the American Revolution by comparing the viewpoints of George Washington and King George III. It’s a unique way to help students understand both sides of history, sparking deeper discussions about leadership and conflict resolution.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd
If your class loves Farmer Brown’s adventures, they’ll adore this silly tale about Duck’s journey to becoming president. It’s a lighthearted way to introduce the concepts of campaigning, voting, and the responsibilities of elected officials.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 3rd
This hilarious story imagines President Taft getting stuck in the White House bathtub. While the event itself is a myth, it’s a delightful way to spark laughter in your classroom. The author’s note at the end includes fun facts about Taft and bathtubs, adding a layer of historical context.
Perfect for: 3rd – 5th
This biography of Abraham Lincoln highlights his humble beginnings and unconventional path to the presidency. The inclusion of Lincoln’s own writings throughout the book makes it especially powerful, and the list of additional resources at the end is perfect for extending learning.
Perfect for: 3rd – 5th
Though this book is older and only goes up to President Bill Clinton, its message about the diverse backgrounds of U.S. presidents is timeless. It’s a longer read, but older students will appreciate the depth and humor woven throughout the pages.
With these read-alouds, you’ll not only celebrate President’s Day but also inspire your students to think critically, ask questions, and even laugh out loud. Have you used any of these books in your classroom? Let me know in the comments!
