📖 Overview
Grace is stunned to learn that no woman has ever been President of the United States. Her teacher responds by organizing a mock election at their elementary school, with Grace running against a boy named Thomas.
The story follows Grace's campaign as she develops her platform, makes promises to her classmates, and learns about the electoral college system. Both candidates must work to earn votes from students across different grades who represent electoral votes from different states.
The election process teaches Grace and her fellow students about democracy, leadership, and civic responsibility. Through Grace's determination and campaign journey, the book introduces young readers to the mechanics of presidential elections and representation.
This picture book addresses gender equality and political participation while remaining accessible to children. It presents complex civic concepts through a relatable school-based story that connects to broader discussions about breaking barriers and pursuing goals.
👀 Reviews
Readers appreciate the book's clear explanation of the Electoral College for young children and its message about girls in leadership. Parents and teachers report the book helps start discussions about elections, democracy, and gender equality in politics.
Readers liked:
- Relatable characters and engaging illustrations
- Practical examples of campaign strategy and hard work
- Shows both winning and losing gracefully
- Works well as a teaching tool for grades K-4
Readers disliked:
- Some found the Electoral College explanation oversimplified
- A few noted the story feels dated in terms of gender roles
- Price point considered high for a picture book
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.3/5 (2,900+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.8/5 (1,200+ ratings)
Scholastic: 4.7/5 (300+ ratings)
Common reader comment: "Helped my students understand elections while keeping them engaged in the story."
📚 Similar books
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When Duck tires of farm chores and launches a campaign to run the farm, readers follow his rise through the political ranks from farm leader to state governor to president.
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President of the Whole Fifth Grade by Sherri Winston Brianna navigates competition, friendship, and identity while running for class president against a new student who challenges her popularity.
Vote for Our Future by Margaret McNamara Students at Stanton Elementary learn about elections and voting when their school becomes a polling station.
If I Ran for President by Catherine Stier A child describes the requirements, campaign process, and responsibilities involved in becoming President of the United States.
Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty A second-grade student transforms her community through civic action after her beloved grandfather is injured at the local landfill.
President of the Whole Fifth Grade by Sherri Winston Brianna navigates competition, friendship, and identity while running for class president against a new student who challenges her popularity.
Vote for Our Future by Margaret McNamara Students at Stanton Elementary learn about elections and voting when their school becomes a polling station.
If I Ran for President by Catherine Stier A child describes the requirements, campaign process, and responsibilities involved in becoming President of the United States.
🤔 Interesting facts
🎯 Author Kelly DiPucchio was inspired to write this book after her daughter asked why there had never been a female president of the United States.
🗳️ The book was originally published in 2008, the same year Hillary Clinton first ran for president in the Democratic primary against Barack Obama.
👩💼 The illustrator, LeUyen Pham, has illustrated over 100 children's books and was born in Vietnam before coming to the United States as a refugee.
📚 The book has been used in many elementary schools during election seasons to teach children about the Electoral College system in an accessible way.
🌟 A stage musical adaptation of "Grace for President" was produced by Children's Theatre of Charlotte and premiered in 2016, featuring original songs and an expanded storyline.