The Benjamin Franklin Chapter hosts a "Reading is Patriotic" program for Elementary and Middle School students.  The following are lists that were created to support that program.  The program brochure can be downloaded here - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b61CS3-29c4Db0ptpAzxbMVrJwc0y_Ly/view?usp=sharing

I am hoping to build a list of books I have read with reviews.  

If you are looking for books for adults, then I would highly recomend checking out the "Henry Knox Bookshelf" on the National Sons of the American Revolution website.  https://education.sar.org/resources/henry-knox-bookshelf/

The following is a work in progress pulled from Larry Potter's family's use of the Heart of Dakota (https://www.heartofdakota.com/) curriculum to homeschool our five children.

Little Hearts for His Glory

The Baker’s Dozen: A Colonial

Colonial America loved Van Amsterdam’s tasty St. Nicholas cookies! But his greed teaches him a humbling lesson and results in the custom of offering customers the “baker’s dozen”. ($8.95)

George Washington and the General’s Dog

As George Washington is fighting in the American Revolution, he sees a dog lost on the battlefield. Whose dog is it? And where is its owner? This true story is sure to inspire! ($5.99)

Liberty Lee’s Tail of Independence

From settling Jamestown, to participating in the Boston Tea Party, to helping draft the Declaration of Independence, this patriotic mouse teaches kids all about independence! ($16.95)

Rescuing the Declaration of Independence

As a clerk, Stephen spent his days with paperwork. He didn’t expect a message that the British were coming, nor that his job was to save the original Declaration of Independence! ($8.99)

Beyond Little Hearts for His Glory

Your Life as a Settler in Colonial America

Imagine riding in horse-drawn carriages. Dining with the finest silverware. Wearing fancy clothes and powdered wigs. But that might not be the way it really was for settlers! This book shows what life was truly like for settlers in Colonial America! (9.99)

A Picture Book of Benjamin Franklin

A lifelong book lover and printer, Franklin’s famous for sayings like “haste makes waste” and “early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise”. An inventor and public servant, readers will find inspiration in Ben Franklin! ($7.99)

The 18 Penny Goose

The British are coming! The American Revolution is being fought near Letty Wright’s family farm, and the Wrights must flee. Based on a remarkable true story, brave little Letty and her goose will linger in the minds of all who read it. ($4.99)

The Scarlet Stockings Spy

Philadelphia 1777 is no place for cowards! Young America stands ready to fight for freedom - even the smallest of citizens plays the largest of parts. The role of a patriot has nothing to do with age… and everything to do with heart. ($16.95)

Martha Washington

Martha was 27 when she married George Washington. She worked to keep their family, home, and country running well. Whether at a ball or on a battlefield, Martha’s determination and courage set high standards for future First Ladies. ($8.99)

A Picture Book of George Washington

Explore Washington’s early life, the Revolutionary War, and his impressive career as leader of the newly formed U.S. Readers will love learning more about the man who was “first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” ($8.99)

Benjamin Banneker: Pioneering Scientist

Gazing at the stars, Benjamin longed to understand why things worked as they did. In a time when most black Americans were slaves, Benjamin lived a life of freedom and helped survey Washington, D.C., wrote an almanac, and courageously helped advance the cause of equality for African Americans. ($8.99)

Bigger Hearts for His Glory

The Redcoats Are Coming!

Patrick and Beth assist the revolutionaries by waking up the sleeping citizens of Concord before the Redcoats come. ($5.99)

Ben and Me: An Astonishing Life of Benjamin

Franklin by His Good Mouse Amos [Biography] ($8.99)

Phillis Wheatley: Young Revolutionary Poet

[Biography] ($17.95)

A Child’s Story of America

($16.75)

The New Americans

($11.99)

Guns for General Washington

($9.99)

Toliver’s Secret

($7.99)

Creation to Christ

Mr. Revere and I: Historical Fiction

This engaging story depicts the early days of the American Revolution through the eyes of a single horse, who goes from being the steed of a British officer to the mount of Paul Revere. ($7.99)

Revival to Revolution

George Washington’s World

This satisfying slice of history gives a layered look at life during the time of George Washington’s World. Through short stories of American Benjamin Franklin, French Louis XV, English George II, Spanish Junipero Serra, and many other notable figures and events, Foster travels the world and covers the periods of Washington’s life in an engaging, narrative style that does justice not only to the man it celebrates, but also to the slice of history it depicts. ($21.95)

Thomas Jefferson’s America CD

Master storyteller Jim Weiss shares 11 compelling stories of Thomas Jefferson’s life, artfully weaving in the politics and personalities of Patrick Henry, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Lafayette, Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, George Washington, James Monroe, and Lewis and Clark. True stories of war and peace, loyalty and betrayal, battles against empires, and struggles against slavery make this best suited for middle and secondary students. ($16.95)

The Signers

Why would 56 men choose to risk their lives and commit treason against the English by signing the Declaration of Independence? This superbly written book has you traveling from state to state to meet these extraordinary men and discover what they were like, what they did with their lives, and why they gave up so much to sign the Declaration. It is highly recommended for use as the resource for the weekly research assignments about the signers in Revival to Revolution’s plans. If you do not use this book, another resource will need to be used in its place. ($29.95)

Songbird by Nancy Lohr

Young Truxton Pilcher roams the forests around the British colony of Williamsburg and delights in its birds. But when his father is thrown into gaol, his only thought is to secure the royal pardon that will set Father free.

John Paul Jones

A talented captain, Jones uses his barely seaworthy vessel to aid the Continental Navy. Luring enemy craft into danger and close combat, young Jones becomes a hero. ($16.95)

The Reb and the Redcoats

What did the American Revolution look like from the other side of the Atlantic? Find out in this exciting story where British children befriend a colonial prisoner of war. ($14.95)

Amos Fortune – Free Man

Amos was the son of an African king. Captured by slave traders, he worked 45 years to buy his freedom. Amos’ prosperity against all odds is incredibly inspiring. ($7.99)

Poor Richard

($17.95)

Give Me Liberty

($7.99)

Sea Captain from Salem

($15.95)

In Search of Honor

($8.99)

All-American History: student reader (VOL 1) by Celeste W Rakes

Missions to Modern Marvels

Great Events in American History

The memorable dates from America’s history included in this resource will draw you in with fascinating accounts of what happened from both a temporal and eternal perspective. This book places historical events in the context of God’s plan, and in so doing, “His Story” lives on! ($14.99)

Great American Speeches for Young People

For every defining moment in history, impassioned voices rang out, clear and true, speaking to hearts and minds. Martin Luther King Jr., FDR, JFK, Lou Gehrig, and more, show that unshakeable convictions can not only help people speak their minds, but also can work to inspire a nation! ($16.95)

America’s Paul Revere 

[Biography, 5 days] ($12.99)

High School US HISTORY I

America: The Last Best Hope Volume I

With command and wit, William J. Bennett reacquaints Americans with their heritage in an engaging narrative that cuts through the cobwebs of time, memory, and cynicism. In each chapter he sets the stage, relates events in detail, sprinkles in quotes, and then shifts into editorial mode, acknowledging mistakes and shortcomings, while also patriotically asserting that the American experiment in democracy is still a success story. Washington, Franklin, Lincoln, and others emerge not as dust-dry names in a textbook, but as heroic pioneers whose far-reaching vision forged a nation. In this “reasoned balanced presentation of the American story,” Bennett chronologically tells our nation’s story, with all is triumphs and tragedies, and summons us to embrace America’s cause once again, as “the last best hope on earth.” ($16.99)

Never Before In History

With eye-catching illustrations, sidebars, a glossary, and an index, this hardcover history text dispels the common notion that our founding principles came from Greek, Roman, and Enlightenment thinkers. Authors trace the roots of precepts like the dignity of the individual, inalienable rights, secular reform, government by consent, and separation of church and state. Starting with the Reformation’s role in advancing political and religious freedom, this text shows the influence of Judeo-Christian thought on our nation’s history. ($35.00)

The Founding of a Nation

When hard-earned rights and freedoms Americans enjoy today are taken for granted, one only has to join author Elizabeth Richards to rediscover what life was like without them. By revisiting the founding of each of the 13 colonies, Richards shows how difficult, conflicted, and tenuous the development of American democracy was. She lays a sound basis not only for understanding how this country was founded, but also for appreciating the difficulties of those who created our democratic republic of today. ($19.99)

Faith of Our Fathers

Let church history awaken you to the richness of America’s Christian foundation as you study the inspirational lives of Anne Bradstreet, Jonathan Edwards, Samuel Morse, and Billy Sunday. This narrative overview of American church history will have you traveling with circuit riders and racing onward with 20th century evangelists to blaze a trail for Christ across America. Along the way, discover the contributions of men and women who answered the Lord’s call, and who evangelized the vast expanse of untamed America. ($13.00)

The Book of Heroes

Real-life heroes are hard to find, but The Book of Heroes chooses simply the best for us to make our acquaintance with. These unforgettable men and women offered unique contributions to American life that continue to inspire others today. George Washington, Daniel Boone, Robert E. Lee, Louisa May Alcott, George Washington Carver – all diverse individuals that shared one passion – to do all they could to make America the very best it could be. ($17.99)

Great Letters in American History

Poignant letters penned by Christopher Columbus, John Winthrop, Anne Bradstreet, William Penn, Benjamin Franklin, Phillis Wheatley, Abigail Adams, Patrick Henry, Samuel Adams, John Jay, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, Andrew Jackson, Stonewall Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant and more, give intimate insight into American history. These famous Americans from the Colonial Period to the Post-Civil War Period communicate in their own words how God’s hand has been evident through America’s history. This Heart of Dakota re-publication will have you awaiting each letter with eager anticipation. ($19.99)

The American Testimony USB Video Set 1

Academically-rich and geared toward high school/college level students, history enthusiasts, and patriotic citizens, these U.S. History video lessons bring America’s complete story into perspective. More than just a classroom or homeschool audiovisual tool, this series covers 1492-1877 and contains visually-rich documentaries that use newsreel video and motion picture footage, archival photographs, illustrations of antiquity, and filmed reenactments to bring history to life. Note: Families who previously used the Extension Package for Revival to Revolution should refer to Heart of Dakota’s “Substitution Policy” to take advantage of the U.S. History I Economy Package savings, as you already own this video set. ($39.99)

Great Documents in US History

One of the most exciting ways to study U.S. History is to  ponder how written and spoken materials have shaped our past. Great Documents in U.S. History does just this by examining the words used to frame our nation. The Mayflower Compact, George Washington’s Farewell Address, the Trail of Tears, the CA Gold Rush, the Nature of Slavery, and 14 more topics from 1620-1870 help students understand the people who stood behind great decisions in our past, as well as the ways in which significant documents affected the times. This volume provides historical context, a glossary, and questions to help students understand the documents and their importance. Note: Either reproduce or purchase one per student. ($25.00)

Ben Franklin’s Almanac

“What good shall I do today?” How Ben Franklin answered that question - through his work as a writer, printer, statesman, and inventor - forever established him as one of America’s greatest figures. Anyone interested in the birth of American democracy is sure to enjoy this unique portrait of Ben Franklin’s countless accomplishments. ($22.99)

Calico Captive

In 1754, the stillness is shattered by the terrifying cries of an Indian raid. Young Miriam finds herself captive on a forest trail and can only force herself to the next stopping place, the next small portion of food, the next icy stream to cross. Mingled with thoughts of her sweetheart headed to Harvard is the crying of her sister’s baby, Captive, born on the trail. All seems lost... until the Du Quesne family arrives. ($9.99)

Abigail Adams

The wife of one president and the mother of another, Abigail Adams was an extraordinary woman who experienced the gathering storm of the Revolutionary War and saw the battle of Bunker Hill from a hilltop by her home. Often separated from her husband John, Abigail wrote letters to him and to others constantly. Through quotations from her own letters, Abigail’s voice comes alive, and we become drawn into the turbulent history of her times. ($13.95)

Forgotten Founding Father

George Whitfield is thought of as a preacher during the Great Awakening, and while this is true, his most lasting gift may have been his impact on American colonies. In 7 tours of the colonies, Whitfield preached from Georgia to Maine, calling colonists to spiritual conversion and challenging their sense of national destiny. He befriended men like Ben Franklin, converted men like Patrick Henry, and inspired men like George Washington, but to the colonists... he was the father of their revolution. ($18.95)

Give Me Liberty

Life is tough for 13 year old Nathaniel Dunn, an indentured servant in colonial Virginia, but when he meets Basil all of that changes. Basil introduces Nathaniel to music, books, and philosophies that foster new attitudes about equality. When 1775 colonists voice their rage over England’s taxation, Patrick Henry’s words become the sounding call for action. Should Nathaniel and Basil join the fight? ($7.99)

Lafayette and the American Revolution

Playing a pivotal role in the American Revolution, Lafayette convinced France to send troops, made crucial pacts with Native Americans, and lead his men to victory at Yorktown. This thrilling account of a daring soldier will fascinate young historians. ($14.99)

Mount Vernon Love Story

Mary Higgins Clark wrote this extensively researched novel and titled it Aspire to the Heavens. More recently discovered by a Washington family descendant, it’s now been reissued as Mount Vernon Love Story. Dispelling the belief that although George Washington married Martha Custis, his true love was Sally Carey Fairfax, Clark describes Washington’s marriage as one full of tenderness and love, as a bond between two people who shared their lives – even through the bitter hardship of a winter in Valley Forge. ($10.99)

A Noble Experiment

At its inception in 1787, the new U.S. constitutional government began with the premise that people could rule themselves. But could this form of government endure, or would it fail, as did the democratic Greek city-states and the Roman Republic? Built around primary source documents and the film ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,’ this student- directed conservative approach to government combines DVD instruction with a consumable student workbook and a CD of teacher materials. These materials include a course outline, course syllabus, primary source readings, reading- based activities, DVD lessons, assessments, a grade book, answer keys, and DVD lesson transcripts, which collectively meet all national standards for high school civics and government. DVD Set ($79.99)Student Notebook ($19.99)

Whatever Happened to Justice?

What has gone wrong with America’s legal system and economy, and how can it be fixed? This clever book tackles these questions by showing the difference between higher law and man-made law, and by establishing the connection between rational law and economic prosperity. The two laws introduced - do all you have agreed to do, and do not encroach on other persons or their property – could strengthen both America and the family unit. ($17.95)

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin [excerpts]

This famous Founding Father, inventor, philosopher, satirist, political theorist, statesman, and diplomat wrote his own autobiography with intelligent and pure intentioned thoughts. Follow his life in his own words, and discover what it means to be both a free thinker and a U.S. citizen. ($4.49)

Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God

Delivered 250 years ago by Jonathan Edwards at his church in Massachusetts, this is the most famous sermon preached in the history of America. Far more than a depiction of the punishments of hell, it is a call to personal salvation through Christ and spiritual revival in our time. ($14.99)

High School US HISTORY II

America: The Last Best Hope Volume II

As one of America’s most respected voices on cultural, political, and educational issues, Bennett’s writing reflects the deep respect he holds for America’s leaders, its history, and its institutions. Bennett responds to Reagan’s heartfelt call for an informed patriotism, telling the riveting story of the last century’s great wars, the rise of world Communism, the struggle of freedom at home and abroad, and the triumph of liberty. Full-bodied, well-written, and honest, Bennett offers a refreshing read for anyone who believes in traditional morality, admires America, and yet desires an honest history that doesn’t shy away from shortcomings. ($16.99)

The Mystery of History: Volume IV

This vibrant world history volume by Linda Hobar partners beautifully with Bennett’s America: The Last Best Hope: Volume II to create a realistic, yet inspirational, faith-filled journey through American history. Artfully unfolding history from the wars of the world to the wars of modern times, Hobar leads students through the worldwide fight for women’s suffrage, WWI, the forming of the U.S.S.R., the Irish Civil War, the Great Depression, the Holocaust, WWII, the Cold War, the formation of Israel, the Korean War, the Bay of Pigs, Vietnam, Kennedy’s and King’s assassinations, Watergate, Khomeini, the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Persian Gulf War, the collapse of the Soviet Union, 9/11, the War on Terror, and more.($99.95)

The American Testimony USB Video Set 2

Academically-rich and geared toward high school/college level students, history enthusiasts, and patriotic citizens, these U.S. History video lessons bring America’s complete story into perspective. More than just a classroom or homeschool audiovisual tool, this series covers 1877 to the present and contains visually-rich documentaries that use newsreel video and motion picture footage, archival photographs, illustrations of antiquity, and filmed reenactments to bring history to life. ($39.99)