I don’t know how I overlooked posting my review sooner! A songbook of America’s history for young readers, but an imminent historian and author and an esteemed country music performer. There was quite a bit of text background and explanation, but for the right reader, this exploration of America’s history insong will find an appreciative audience.

While I found this book interesting, it reads like a text book, which isn't going to win appeal with young readers. Instead. I think it would be a great resource for a US history course

I think this book had good intentions, but missed the mark for young readers. I don't think kids would fully enjoy or understand this book.

This book was not at all what I hoped it would be. I was hoping for a folk and traditional music sourcebook (including chords and sheet music) that would succinctly connect our nation's history with some of the songs that define the important moments of our nation. Instead, what I got was a text-dense history book that listed songs in poem form. Kids would pick up this book because of the attractive cover, and put it down just as fast because it reads like a history text. The best use of this book would probably be for 5th grade teachers, whose curriculum is American History, to read it themselves and incorporate the songs into their teaching of American History.

Music and its effect on social events is often overlooked in history classes. A good reminder of the power of music, protest, and collective action.

If I could design a U.S. history course right now, I’d use this fascinating book as inspiration. I haven’t read it all yet, but it takes a fascinating journey through our country’s history from its roots to present time. It explains the origins of songs from each time period and puts it in historical context. It closely examines the lyrics and the messages the songs delivered. I keep thinking of picture books I have that connect to the songs whether they are biographies or fiction. It’s also filled with great photographs. This would be such a fun curriculum to make!