Leo's First Vote! - by Christina Soontornvat (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Get out the vote! In this kid-friendly picture book introduction to voting and elections, Leo's father teaches him about the importance of every single vote, and how to use their voices to uplift their community.

A NPR BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

Leo's dad is voting in his first election as a naturalized US citizen, and he promises to take Leo to the polls with him. Leo can't wait! But, after his cousin Ray casts doubt on the importance of a single vote, it'll take Leo's class mock election results, as well as a talk with his dad to convince him that each and every vote matters.

This lively picture book shows us how citizens decide who will be in charge, hitting key moments in an election, from voter registration to polling places, to staying in line, and features extensive backmatter for kids who want to dig deeper.

Review Quotes

"Teeming with vocabulary terms, this book will turn readers into mini democracy experts. Roxas's cut paper collage artwork uses white space and clever composi­ tions to add visual richness." --The New York Times

"[A] heartwarming, educational story about how every ballot counts." --People Magazine

★ "[A] lively picture book....Marvelously textured, dimensional cut-paper, oil pastel, and acrylic artwork clearly delineates the step-by-step of voting in this spot-on depiction of a child's anxiety and excitement around a crucial process." --Publishers Weekly, starred review

"An invaluable addition to any young citizen-in-training's bookshelf." --Kirkus Reviews

"A timely, if earnestly purposeful, overview of a basic civil right, aimed at younger audiences but with some savvy pointers for new Americans of any age." --School Library Journal

"[A] relevant and informative story." --Booklist

About the Author

Christina Soontornvat is the award-winning author of over twenty books for children of all ages. She is also a 3-time Newbery Honoree for her middle grade titles The Last Mapmaker, A Wish in the Dark, and All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys Soccer Team. Her picture books include The Ramble Shamble Children, illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Lauren Castillo, and To Change a Planet, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Belle. She travels all over the world to speak to children, writers, and educators about her love of reading and writing. She currently lives in Texas with her husband and two daughters.

Isabel Roxas is an author & illustrator creating books for young readers. Originally from Manila, she is now based in New York City, completing the third installment of her award-winning graphic novel series The Adventures of Team Pom.