What Does It Mean to Be American? - (What Does It Mean to Be...?) by Rana Diorio & Elad Yoran (Hardcover)

About the Book

This continuation of the popular What Does It Mean to BeE? series provides a nonpartisan point of view perfect for any and all Americans who are proud of who they are--and where they come from, regardless of their political views. Full color.

Book Synopsis

How do you explain to a child what it means to be American?

This award-winning picture book delivers a hopeful, inclusive message that helps children understand our country not by apple pie and fireworks, but by its shared values: kindness, courage, freedom, and diversity.

Written by Rana DiOrio and decorated veteran Elad Yoran, and brought to life with illustrations by New York Times bestselling artist Nina Mata, What Does It Mean to Be American? gives children ages 4-8 the language to talk about civic identity with pride, empathy, and understanding.

Ideal for read-alouds at home or school, this book offers a nonpartisan, values-based lens that celebrates who we are--and how we grow together.

Why families and teachers choose this book again and again:

• Encourages empathy and pride in a shared national identity
• Offers a hopeful alternative to divisive narratives, without oversimplifying complex truths
• Sparks meaningful questions: What does freedom feel like? How can I help others feel welcome?

Inside you'll find:

• Award-Winning Excellence: Winner of the Moonbeam Children's Book Award; Finalist for the Benjamin Franklin and INDIES Book of the Year Awards.
• Visually Inclusive Storytelling: Vibrant art showcases diverse families, cultures, and experiences--helping every child see themselves in the American story.
• Civic Readiness for Kids: Aligns with early social studies, social-emotional learning (SEL), and character-building curriculums.
• Perfect Timing for Big Days: A standout for July 4th, Memorial Day, Citizenship Day, Election Day, or classroom units on American history and values.

Loved by parents, teachers, and librarians alike, readers call it "thoughtful, empowering, and exactly what kids need right now."

Review Quotes

"What Does It Mean to Be American? is a memorable book for younger children to begin to understand our great country and its values. It is never too early to learn, or too late to be reminded, about what makes America so unique." -- Mike Krzyzewski, Duke University and USA Senior National Team (2005-16) Head Coach

"Beautifully written and vividly illustrated, this book is a great starting point for kids of all ages to ponder what being an American means to them and the common bonds that unite us all." -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed

"I'm absolutely in love with What Does it Mean to Be American? Written by author, entrepreneur and mom Rana DiOrio along with former US Army paratrooper turned military cyber-securiity expert and dad of four, Elad Yoran, the result is truly something special. What Does It Mean to Be American dives into a complex topic with thoughtful, accessible prose. And hey, maybe it will even start meaningful conversations among adults, too." -- Liz Gumbinner, Cool Mom Picks

"Mom's Choice Award Winner"

"Reading this book with my young children and following the lessons learned will mold them into the Americans I want them to be." -- Alejandro Villanueva, Pro Bowl NFL player, former US Army Ranger and decorated veteran of Afghanistan, and first generation American

"The multicultural people pictured throughout the richly hued pages are ethical, caring, and aware of their responsibilities as citizens. There is a hopeful, uplifting tone, matched by the illustrations' rosy portrayal of the United States" -- Kirkus Reviews

"What Does It Mean To Be American? is a vivid reminder that every American is part of something bigger than themselves. Nina Mata's remarkable illustrations pair perfectly with DiOrio and Yoran's lyrical prose to teach kids that we can achieve excellence by practicing integrity, both individually and as a nation of individuals working together." -- General Craig R. McKinley, United States Air Force (retired)

"With engaging illustrations and an accessible text, What Does It Mean to Be American? orients children to the spirit of our inclusive, optimistic country. This book is a great way to teach kids about some of our country's most important commitments." -- Ganesh Sitaraman, author of The Crisis of the Middle-Class Constitution: Why Economic Inequality Threatens Our Republic, one of The New York Times' 100 Notable Books of 2017