Member Reviews

I requested this book to read to my kids. It turns out I learned just as much as they did! This book is well written and organized in a way to keep kids engaged.

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I requested a review copy of this book from NetGalley because I have a child very interested in presidents. He at one time knew all of them in order of serving, and owns most every book for children written about them. This book will be one to add to his shelf. It's full of interesting facts beyond the normal dates and wives. I would love to give this to him before we take a trip to visit Washington D.C. in the coming years. This book is wonderful for those readers who enjoy more facts based vs novel based reading. Fun Fact and Did You Know headings for each chapter which is another "love language" for my reader - he will spit these facts back to anyone listening! Only thing I wish was different was including color photos when able, as the proof copy was B&W or missing the images.

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With thanks to NetGalley and Quill Tree Books for an early copy in return for an honest review.

This book is perfect for those who love history and non-fiction...so many great facts and trivia in the book! I liked the layout of the book with each chapter looking at a different aspect of life in the White House, rather than each chapter looking at a different family.

As for the intended audience, although this is targeted for Middle Grade readers I actually think adults would enjoy the book (I did!). Additionally, some of the book might be a bit over an 8- or 9-year old's comprehension. I checked with my students (who are 9) about some of the vocabulary and language and it was tricky. So for the younger middle grade set I would suggest the book is best for kids really into history/non-fiction. But for older middle grades, teens and adults this book is great!

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Before reading this book, I was already a fan of Kate Andersen Brower. She has written some great behind the scenes books of Washington DC and its famous inhabitants. I was excited before even opening this book that Brower had put together this more young adult level book about the many jobs and people who keep the White House running - most excited to read it and purchase it for my niece who has an obsession about past Presidents!

Going from duty to duty, Kate Andersen Brower described the different types of jobs that keep this great house running from President to President and through all sorts of points in history. The moments that I loved reading about where the personal moments that these people have while doing their jobs with people who are trying to balance a very hard job, the Presidency, while also trying to maintain their personal and family lives.

The transition from President to President is laid out in this book and what a coordinated effort it must be. I was so intrigued about the months of preparation it takes for this to go smoothly. While a candidate is campaigning, they are also answering what if questions about a possible move into the White House. I can't imagine preparing for a move that may never happen.

I loved this book and anticipate purchasing a few copies for other President and history buffs like me!

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I love the White House and was very excited about this book. This book is for older children that may be fascinated with the White House and First Families. It gives you an inside look at the White House and those who live and work there. I can't get past the 35 bathrooms! I can't help but think of all the history inside those walls. The history events it has witnessed and the people that have walked the halls. You will learn that the Lincoln Bedroom was not actually his bedroom but his office. The office where he signed the Emancipation Proclamation. I love all the fun facts that are included within the chapters. There is a listing and description of the different jobs within the White House. From the Chief Usher to Chief Florist. You will see throughout this book the importance of the White House and the families that live there and the people that work there. Plan a trip to tour the White House soon

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I received this ebook in exchange for an honest review. I wanted to read this book to see if it would be good for my students. It was that and more. The author wrote in a style that invites the reader to engage in this book all the way through. This was enjoyable for me and I know my students will enjoy it as well. I will seek more books by this author.

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Some kids like to read fiction, while other children prefer books filled with facts and interesting trivia. Exploring the White House: Inside America's Most Famous Home is PERFECT for little fact-lovers who enjoy poring over books to learn new things. I especially loved the inclusion of photographs of White House staff and family members to bring the interesting stories to life!

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