Barefoot Books America's Founding Myths: ...And What REALLY Happened

Written by Christy Mihaly
Illustrated by Marta Sevilla

The MUST-HAVE book for kids for America's 250th birthday! Play a game of fact or fiction with this interactive book about the founding of America.

Have you ever wondered… Did Christopher Columbus REALLY discover America? What REALLY happened at the first Thanksgiving? Did Paul Revere REALLY shout “The British are coming!”? It’s time to pull the curtain back on these well-known myths to find out what REALLY happened and where these stories we’ve heard over and over again came from.

Perfect for history-loving kids and educators looking to teach kids about information literacy, America’s Founding Myths is a must-have on any history lover’s shelf!

Rise Up!

Rise Up: Powerful Protests in American History

Written by Rachel C. Katz
Illustrated by Sophie Bass

Protest is as American as apple pie. This bold, energetic nonfiction picture book introduces budding activists to 25 moments of resistance and revolution in American history through rhythmic, lyrical text and vibrant illustrations inspired by protest art. Includes info boxes, educational endnotes, timeline, and more to support learning.

Read the press release for Rise Up!

Listed as one of the "Most Anticipated Children's Books of 2025"
— Literary Hub

"Brilliant colors and dramatic contrast burst from the pages of this age-appropriate primer on the history and power of protests in the United States."
— Foreword Reviews

Watch the trailer!

Educator Resources

Stack of pages showing Rise Up! discussion guide

Events

Join us for storytimes, crafts, virtual panels, interactive art installations, and more to celebrate America's 250th!

April 11th - October 31st
The Robbins House
320 Monument St
Concord, MA 01742

Visit anytime! Discover a sculpture and StoryWalk™ inspired by the profound influence of the African diaspora on traditions in the U.S. and around the globe, while underscoring the vital role of storytelling in connecting us to our shared heritage. Installation and StoryWalk™ inspired by Ayo’s Adventure published by Barefoot Books. Stop by on Saturday, April 19th from 8am-2pm during the Patriots' Day celebrations for a chance to purchase Ayo's Adventure: Across the African Diaspora from Afro to Zulu, Rise Up!: Powerful Protests in American History, and the official Concord250 commemorative book Discover the Battle Road, full of Concord history, walking maps, and content from Rise Up!

More Books for America’s 250th Anniversary