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The Fourth of July Story
An accessible story of America’s birthday brings alive the history and spirit of the Fourth of July, with an introduction to the fight for independence and the events and people that shaped American tradition.
What happened on the Fourth of July long before there were fireworks and parades? Alice Dalgliesh takes young readers back to revolutionary times, back to the colonists’ desire for freedom and the creation of the Declaration of Independence.
Simple text captures the excitement of the era, telling how word of Independence traveled up and down the thirteen colonies, touching the lives of everyday people throughout the land. Like all of Alice Dalgliesh’s work, The Fourth of July Story remains an American classic.
What happened on the Fourth of July long before there were fireworks and parades? Alice Dalgliesh takes young readers back to revolutionary times, back to the colonists’ desire for freedom and the creation of the Declaration of Independence.
Simple text captures the excitement of the era, telling how word of Independence traveled up and down the thirteen colonies, touching the lives of everyday people throughout the land. Like all of Alice Dalgliesh’s work, The Fourth of July Story remains an American classic.
32 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1956
3 people are currently reading
491 people want to read
About the author
Alice Dalgliesh
69 books48 followersFamily: Born in Trinidad, British West Indies; naturalized U.S. citizen; died in Woodbury, CT; daughter of John and Alice (Haynes) Dalgliesh.
Educator, editor, book reviewer, and author, Dalgliesh was an elementary school teacher for nearly seventeen years, and later taught a course in children's literature at Columbia University. From 1934 to 1960 she served as children's book editor for Charles Scribner's Sons. In addition to her book reviews for such magazines as Saturday Review of Literature and Parents' Magazine, Dalgliesh wrote more than forty books for children (most illustrated by Katherine Milhous) and about children's literature.
She received a BA from Columbia University and taught at elementary schools for a while before writing her first book, A Happy School Year, in 1924. Among her books are Newbery Honor books The Silver Pencil (1944), The Bears on Hemlock Mountain (1952), and The Courage of Sarah Noble (1954). The writer Robert Heinlein and Dalgliesh, Heinlein's editor at Scribner's, had conflict in the 1950s. This was revealed in letters published in "Grumbles from the Grave" by Virginia Heinlein.
Educator, editor, book reviewer, and author, Dalgliesh was an elementary school teacher for nearly seventeen years, and later taught a course in children's literature at Columbia University. From 1934 to 1960 she served as children's book editor for Charles Scribner's Sons. In addition to her book reviews for such magazines as Saturday Review of Literature and Parents' Magazine, Dalgliesh wrote more than forty books for children (most illustrated by Katherine Milhous) and about children's literature.
She received a BA from Columbia University and taught at elementary schools for a while before writing her first book, A Happy School Year, in 1924. Among her books are Newbery Honor books The Silver Pencil (1944), The Bears on Hemlock Mountain (1952), and The Courage of Sarah Noble (1954). The writer Robert Heinlein and Dalgliesh, Heinlein's editor at Scribner's, had conflict in the 1950s. This was revealed in letters published in "Grumbles from the Grave" by Virginia Heinlein.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 3, 2020
Children's author, primary school teacher, long-time editor and three-time Newbery Medal Honoree Alice Dalgliesh tells the story of the Fourth of July in this text-heavy work of picture-book history. With language that is simple but expressive, she relates the tale of how the thirteen American colonies came to want independence from Britain, how their representatives met in Philadelphia, and how the Declaration of Independence was written by Thomas Jefferson. Then, on July 4th, 1776, the representatives voted to adopt the Declaration, and America declared her independence. The remainder of the narrative describes how the news was carried to the thirteen states, and (briefly) how the war for independence was eventually won...
Wonderfully written by Dalgliesh and beautifully illustrated by Marie Nonnast, The 4th of July Story makes a lovely introduction, both to the significance of America's Independence Day and to the history of the American Revolution, for beginning readers. As mentioned, it is text heavy for a picture-book, and could almost be considered an illustrated short story. Of course, younger children with a longer attention span could also benefit from having this read to them. I appreciated the fact that Dalgliesh gave just enough background information to situate her main story - a narrative explaining the significance of the 4th of July - but didn't get bogged down in lots of details about the related subjects of Colonial America's conflict with Britain, the Continental Congress, and the American Revolution, thereby distracting the reader. As she mentions in her brief author's note, this is a big story, and hopefully readers will investigate other aspects of it as they grow older. Recommended to anyone looking for a children's book addressing the historical significance of the 4th of July.
Wonderfully written by Dalgliesh and beautifully illustrated by Marie Nonnast, The 4th of July Story makes a lovely introduction, both to the significance of America's Independence Day and to the history of the American Revolution, for beginning readers. As mentioned, it is text heavy for a picture-book, and could almost be considered an illustrated short story. Of course, younger children with a longer attention span could also benefit from having this read to them. I appreciated the fact that Dalgliesh gave just enough background information to situate her main story - a narrative explaining the significance of the 4th of July - but didn't get bogged down in lots of details about the related subjects of Colonial America's conflict with Britain, the Continental Congress, and the American Revolution, thereby distracting the reader. As she mentions in her brief author's note, this is a big story, and hopefully readers will investigate other aspects of it as they grow older. Recommended to anyone looking for a children's book addressing the historical significance of the 4th of July.
June 30, 2016
This is exactly the type of historical story book that I love to read a loud to my children. The length might intimidate some, but it's worth it. Beautiful illustrations make it that much better, although the story stands alone. At first I was surprised it didn't have a higher rating, but then I remembered most people don't want to read long picture books to their children. Sad, but true.
July 2, 2025
Published in the 1950s and surprisingly not racist!
Also, a good, thorough, and even nuanced introduction and synopsis of American revolution and independence for the younger set.
Also, a good, thorough, and even nuanced introduction and synopsis of American revolution and independence for the younger set.
July 4, 2021
Perfection!
January 25, 2013
This book is aptly named; it is indeed a story. The basic elements are true. Flourishes are added to make the story more accessible for a young child. Those flourishes work well. They add excitement and a sense of pride to the story.
The book starts with the Liberty Bell ringing on the very first Fourth of July. It starts by addressing the reasons colonists wanted to be free from the British, and how the tension between England and the colonists mounted. Next we see Thomas Jefferson writing the Declaration of Independence, followed by spreading the news about the Declaration of Independence, and then the victory of the Americans over the British. All of this is told by three time Newberry Honor Winner Alice Dalgliesh, a seasoned storyteller with a rich voice and a keen eye for the elements of history that must be told if the story is to impart the awe of the founding of a nation.
Dalgliesh also adds scenes that might have happened. For example a rider with the Declaration of Independence in his saddle bag, stops to talk with a farmer of German ancestry about the Declaration. The farmer continues thinking about what it means to live in a free country as the rider moves on through the countryside.
The major figures of independence and the revolution have a place in the story: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington. There’s a nice anecdote about a very young Andrew Jackson reading the Declaration of Independence to his neighbors.
“The Fourth of July Story” was originally published two years before I was born. The illustrations look like the illustrations in many of the picture books, novels and textbooks I grew up with. They bring a simple view of the revolutionary time alive. The artist is not trying hard for reality. The last picture in the book makes this particularly clear. At the end of the war, Washington is reviewing his troops. Almost all the troops are wearing uniforms that look spotless. My understanding is that soldiers were lucky to have any part of their uniforms left after the war.
“The Fourth of July Story” is great choice for reading on the 4th of July, or anytime the subject of the American Revolution comes up with young children.
The book starts with the Liberty Bell ringing on the very first Fourth of July. It starts by addressing the reasons colonists wanted to be free from the British, and how the tension between England and the colonists mounted. Next we see Thomas Jefferson writing the Declaration of Independence, followed by spreading the news about the Declaration of Independence, and then the victory of the Americans over the British. All of this is told by three time Newberry Honor Winner Alice Dalgliesh, a seasoned storyteller with a rich voice and a keen eye for the elements of history that must be told if the story is to impart the awe of the founding of a nation.
Dalgliesh also adds scenes that might have happened. For example a rider with the Declaration of Independence in his saddle bag, stops to talk with a farmer of German ancestry about the Declaration. The farmer continues thinking about what it means to live in a free country as the rider moves on through the countryside.
The major figures of independence and the revolution have a place in the story: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington. There’s a nice anecdote about a very young Andrew Jackson reading the Declaration of Independence to his neighbors.
“The Fourth of July Story” was originally published two years before I was born. The illustrations look like the illustrations in many of the picture books, novels and textbooks I grew up with. They bring a simple view of the revolutionary time alive. The artist is not trying hard for reality. The last picture in the book makes this particularly clear. At the end of the war, Washington is reviewing his troops. Almost all the troops are wearing uniforms that look spotless. My understanding is that soldiers were lucky to have any part of their uniforms left after the war.
“The Fourth of July Story” is great choice for reading on the 4th of July, or anytime the subject of the American Revolution comes up with young children.
July 5, 2021
The Fourth of July Story is a children's picture book written by Alice Dalgliesh and illustrated by Marie Nonnast. It depicts the founding of the Nation and how the Thirteen Colonies of the United States first celebrated their nation's birthday. As today is the Fourth of July (4 July), I thought it would be apropos to read this book.
Dalgliesh's text is simplistic and straightforward. Dalgliesh has retold the events leading up to the Declaration of Independence and interpreted their meaning for their target audience and to show how the first Fourth of July was celebrated. Nonnast's illustrations are nicely done with striking color spreads and rather apropos for the target audience, albeit a tad dated.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. The material covers the highlights of the thirteen colonies, their wish to govern themselves, Jefferson's writing of the Declaration at the request of the Congressional committee, the carrying of the news and the steps taken under Washington, and to enforce it.
All in all, The Fourth of July Story is a wonderful introduction to how the birth of the United States of America was formed and a great launching pad for those more interest to delve deeper further.
Dalgliesh's text is simplistic and straightforward. Dalgliesh has retold the events leading up to the Declaration of Independence and interpreted their meaning for their target audience and to show how the first Fourth of July was celebrated. Nonnast's illustrations are nicely done with striking color spreads and rather apropos for the target audience, albeit a tad dated.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. The material covers the highlights of the thirteen colonies, their wish to govern themselves, Jefferson's writing of the Declaration at the request of the Congressional committee, the carrying of the news and the steps taken under Washington, and to enforce it.
All in all, The Fourth of July Story is a wonderful introduction to how the birth of the United States of America was formed and a great launching pad for those more interest to delve deeper further.
July 10, 2015
Loved it! Such a great way to teach younger kids about our nation's history. I highly recommend it. This will be an annual story in our home from now on.
July 28, 2016
Absolutely wonderful simple story of the 4th of July. Mom rates 5 stars, kids 3 stars..krb 6/30/16
July 1, 2016
A very patriotic little book which explains the American War for Independence in a nutshell so your children will understand what the Fourth of July is all about.
July 5, 2019
We read this aloud tonight amidst the crackle and bang of neighbouring fireworks around us on this evening of the fourth of July, 2019. In silence listening were all my little blossoms at 9, 7, 4, and 2. Many questions were answered and connections made to famous American biographies and Simply Classical Writing assignments and New American Cursive practice pages. Even my preschooler son was interested and said he wants to start listening more when I read about American History. I own this book.
April 30, 2021
This classic book is a beautiful addition to our American History shelf. It covers the basics of the fight for liberty this country originated through without going into the gory details. It is a nice book that I can see us pulling out each 4th of July to remind the kids exactly how the sacrifices of a prior generation allow them to enjoy those bomb pops and fireworks today.
July 7, 2023
The illustrations in this book are nostalgic and quintessential 4th of July! This story geared to teaching children the historical significance of this holiday is well written and informational. Again, a bit long for my 3 & 4 year-olds, but it actually was super helpful in explaining the holiday and giving them some reference (more than fireworks ;) )
July 24, 2017
Alice Dalgliesh's prose is clear and simplified. It could be understood and absorbed as young as second grade. I wouldn't use it in a classroom, but would use it as a parent in combination with other texts that that offer a more diverse perspective on the day.
June 12, 2020
Informative story for kids about why we celebrate The 4th of July. I got this to give my sister to read my nieces. The subject matter may be challenging for younger kids to understand. This book is more for elementary age children.
January 21, 2021
Simplistic but accurate summary of the events and people surrounding Independence Day and the American Revolution. My 5 yo enjoyed listening to it in one sitting. We read this as a recap book after studying many of these events and people a little more in depth.
July 11, 2019
7/11/19 Read with Julia
July 4, 2020
Read to the boys for Independence Day 2020.
Read
July 5, 2020Condensed story with theme of liberty with interesting tidbits sprinkled in
July 7, 2021
Pretty dry but a classic :-)
April 3, 2023
Very fast read
July 5, 2023
Daughter says 3 1/4 stars.
May 19, 2025
Illustrations by Marie Nonnast make this classic children's book about the writing of the Declaration of Independence appealing to read.
July 8, 2025
I actually read a seasonal book in season! This is a good retelling of the general events around the writing of the Declaration of Independence.
July 29, 2025
Very Good for the Grandkids!
December 29, 2025
A great introduction for kids with old-school illustrations about the birth of the United States.
February 19, 2013
This was a perfect book for my 6-year-old son's attention span. I love the artwork which reminds me of some of the 1970s bicentennial artwork, though it was published in the 50s. I like how the book focuses mainly on the Declaration of Independence, but it also talks about the very bare bones basics of the Revolutionary War in a language children will find easy to understand. There are some big vocabulary words, but nothing too intimidating for a parent to explain.
I also liked that the author touched on some of our country's founding fathers like George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson and explained which president they became (1st, 2nd, or 3rd.)
I think my favorite part was where Dalgliesh tells how it took 2 months for the Declaration of Independence to reach some of the towns in the South. Andrew Jackson was a boy and had been reading since he was 5. At the age of 9 he was asked to read this Declaration to his town and even practiced reading it beforehand so he wouldn't have to sound out the words while he was reading it aloud to everyone. No one knew at the time that he would become our 7th president. What a special, fascinating story to learn about!
The only thing that I didn't like was that the story doesn't seem to flow very well. It kind of jumps around a bit which can be confusing unless you're already familiar with the history.
Overall, a wonderful book about the birth of our country.
I also liked that the author touched on some of our country's founding fathers like George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson and explained which president they became (1st, 2nd, or 3rd.)
I think my favorite part was where Dalgliesh tells how it took 2 months for the Declaration of Independence to reach some of the towns in the South. Andrew Jackson was a boy and had been reading since he was 5. At the age of 9 he was asked to read this Declaration to his town and even practiced reading it beforehand so he wouldn't have to sound out the words while he was reading it aloud to everyone. No one knew at the time that he would become our 7th president. What a special, fascinating story to learn about!
The only thing that I didn't like was that the story doesn't seem to flow very well. It kind of jumps around a bit which can be confusing unless you're already familiar with the history.
Overall, a wonderful book about the birth of our country.
July 13, 2010
Love this! It is a reprint of a book from the 50's. Perfect little overview for a 5-9 year old with lovely vintage artwork. The author's note in the beginning sums it up:
"The story of the birthday of our country is a big story to tell young children. Yet when they begin to ask, 'Why do we have a holiday on the Fourth of July?' they have a right to know. They have a right to know that Independence Day is something more than fireworks and picnics.
In telling the story I have used few names and tried to give only a few clear impressions. I have not indicated, therefore, the exact chronology. Older children may learn that Richard Henry Lee's resolution was voted on July 2nd, the Declaration on July 4th, and that all the states did not sign until August. For younger children it is all 'The Fourth of July.'"
"The story of the birthday of our country is a big story to tell young children. Yet when they begin to ask, 'Why do we have a holiday on the Fourth of July?' they have a right to know. They have a right to know that Independence Day is something more than fireworks and picnics.
In telling the story I have used few names and tried to give only a few clear impressions. I have not indicated, therefore, the exact chronology. Older children may learn that Richard Henry Lee's resolution was voted on July 2nd, the Declaration on July 4th, and that all the states did not sign until August. For younger children it is all 'The Fourth of July.'"
October 28, 2013
A great educational book for your children over the preschool age. My 5 yr old loved it. Copyright from 1956 so a little on the old side, and the pictures are a little old but my son still enjoyed it. We've been doing a lot of history, learning about Washington, and the American Revolution, and this was a wonderful addition to our lesson, recommended through our school. It gave some more interesting facts we hadn't learned yet like John Hancock's signature and the liberty bell that my son really enjoyed. A great addition to any children's library.
September 14, 2010
This was a great book for my 6-yr-old as it summarized the American Revolution easily and held his attention. My older boys (ages 10) were already past this.
It would be good if you only wanted a brief, readable blurb or wanted something for the younger grades (or for siblings tagging along with their older brothers!)
It would be good if you only wanted a brief, readable blurb or wanted something for the younger grades (or for siblings tagging along with their older brothers!)
July 22, 2011
This is a good book for children to explain about the origins of Independence Day for the United States. It's a simplified version that doesn't belabor the dates or names, but does explain some of the most important details. We borrowed this book to read closer to the actual holiday, but just read it today (at least it's still July!) We enjoyed reading this book together.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews