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The American Patriot's Almanac:
Daily Readings on America

William J. Bennett and John Cribb
Thomas Nelson (2008)
ISBN 9781595551672
Reviewed by Kam Aures for RebeccasReads (10/08)

“The American Patriot’s Almanac: Daily Readings on America” is an excellent resource for individuals and families to teach and better understand the history of the United States.  We have all had American history classes in school; however, I know that at least for me, a lot of what I had learned I have forgotten since I was taught it so long ago.  It is always nice to have a refresher course and that is just what this book is. 

The book begins by analyzing the meaning of “patriotism” with a general definition of “love for country” and then by looking at it more specifically.  The authors go on to give reasons as to why we should be patriots and concludes the introduction with these words:  It takes a nation of patriots to keep a republic.  Especially this republic.  The United States, with all its might, isn’t likely to be conquered from the outside anytime soon.  If American liberty loses its luster, the dimming will come from within.  It will be due to our own lack of attention and devotion.  Without patriotism, there cannot be a United States.  It falls upon us - upon you and me - to take care of this miraculous American democracy, to make it work, to love it.” (xi-xii)

Following the introduction are 365 sections or units each focusing on historical events throughout the year.  For instance, the entry for April 2nd focuses on Juan Ponce De Leon and the Fountain of Youth, July 20th gives information on the Apollo 11 astronauts stepping onto the moon’s surface, and September 11th reiterates the events that took place at the World Trade Center.  While each date’s page gives the history of one event in detail, other events of significance that took place on that date are listed at the bottom.

Although my children are young, I have been reading to them that day’s page and then explaining the parts that are hard for them to understand.  I think that it is important that all Americans are familiar with and well versed in their country’s history and, in my opinion, it is never too soon to establish a foundation.  I found the lessons to be very interesting and I am learning new details about events that I was only vaguely familiar with.  This book definitely should be a part of any American’s home reference library.

    

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