Children’s Book Review|Of Thee I Sing By Barack Obama

I purchased the book “Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters” by former president Barak Obama as a gift for my husband to share with our son. I had no idea at the time how much I would love it. 

The book follows a pattern of repeating “Have I ever told that you are…” and highlights characteristics of his daughters, comparing them to other great Americans that came before them. 

What’s So Great About “Of Thee I Sing?”

Even YOU Might Learn Something

I love that this book isn’t simply sentiment. It’s actually very educational. Not only does the love of his daughters and country come through in the text of this book, but it teaches children about specific Americans who embody the things Obama loves about his country and his daughters.  There are a lot of people in here, some that even I hadn’t heard of, and something to learn about each of them and how they changes the country or even the world. 

This Is A Diverse Book

The people mentioned in this book are from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, driving home the message that we are all American regardless of race, religion, or gender, and that we are all capable of making America a better place. 

To represent each of these people, there is also a child counterpart, making this a book that showcases children from all walks of life. Any chid can find someone in this book that is just like them. 

It Is Full of Role Models

Real life role models are what make this book a valuable addition to your library. Kids can find people the are similar to them in race or culture. More than that, though, they can see people who embody their personal strengths as Obama compares those people to qualities that he sees in his children. There are people to look up to in this book who aren’t just celebrities or influencers, but rather REAL CHANGE-MAKERS. 

It Is Empowering

At the heart of this book is the message that your child can and will achieve great things, just like each of the people in the book. Obama encourages his children and every child to be creative, smart, brave and over all proud to be an American.

Who is it for?

I would say that “Of Thee I Sing” is aimed at kids ages 7 and up, mainly because there is a lot of text and information. I did read it to my four year old, and he got bored or distracted in places. He also didn’t understand fully who some of the people were or why they mattered. This is a great book to teach American History to your kids while instilling a sense of American Pride.

I bought it for husband because is was a father speaking to his children, and it made a good late fathers day gift for him. It’s something he can read to our son (maybe when he’s a bit older), to teach him about the American that came before him. 

Overall, I am definitely a fan of “Of Thee I Sing”. The whole book makes me smile and I think it has a lot of educational value. 

What do you think?

Have you read Obama’s book?

Are there any books by Politicians or their family members that are your favorite?

Check out other children’s book reviews here.