What's the Big Deal About First Ladies

By Ruby Shamir, Matt Faulkner (Illustrator)

Book #1 in the What's the Big Deal About series

Discover how First Ladies shaped America beyond the White House.

3.8/5 Goodreads · 100 ratings

32 pages· 3,756 words· Est. 29 min read-aloud

$17.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Explore the untold stories of America's First Ladies who influenced history beyond their roles as presidential spouses. From Mary Todd Lincoln's fight against slavery to Edith Wilson's wartime espionage, each First Lady left a unique mark on the nation. This engaging book reveals their contributions as advocates, activists, and role models, offering a fresh perspective on their impact. Perfect for young history enthusiasts, it invites readers to uncover the fascinating legacies of these remarkable women and their pivotal roles in shaping the country. What surprising stories will you uncover about these influential figures?

From the publisher

First Ladies are more than just wives of U.S. presidents! This fun, kid-friendly book of trivia and history shows that First Ladies help influence America in ways both large and small.

Did you know that Mary Todd Lincoln hated slavery and helped to end it in America? Or that Edith Wilson helped decode secret messages during World War I? How about that Sarah Polk didn’t let anyone dance in the White House while she was first lady?

It’s true! In addition to being hostesses, advocates, ambassadors, activists, patriots, and role-models, each first lady put her own stamp on the White House–and on our country. In this fun-filled, fact-filled book, you can find out just what made each first lady unique and why they were so important. As it turns out, first ladies are a pretty big deal after all!

This book is perfect for fans of So You Want to be President?and Rad American Women from A-Z: Rebels, Trailbalzers, and Visionaries who Shaped Our History…And Our Future, and is a great entry point to discussing elections, inaugurations, and all aspects of the White House with children.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Words: 3,756
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD1120L

Themes & topics

Books about America Books about social science Books about politics and government Books about First Ladies

What readers & critics say

Reviews

“A breezy way to, as Abigail Adams urged, 'remember the ladies.'”

Kirkus

Critic · Starred review

“This title does an excellent job of highlighting the important roles that these women played throughout history. . . . A delightful introduction to America’s first ladies for elementary U.S. history collections.”

School Library Journal

Critic

“Packed with interesting facts and illustrated with style, this upbeat overview of America’s First Ladies will entertain kids intrigued by history.”

Booklist

Critic

For readers who can't stop at one