What Does It Mean to Be American?

In this fifth entry in the What Does It Mean to Be series, a bright-eyed girl and her biracial parents—who are sworn in as citizens in the book’s final spread—experience and exemplify the promise of America. DiOrio and Yoran point out that being American isn’t a matter of address or appreciation of fast food and fireworks; instead, it’s about volunteering, working hard to achieve dreams, “follow[ing] the same rules,” and “appreciating that our differences make us kinder, smarter, healthier, and stronger.” Mata’s cheery vignettes have a sprightly specificity and a strong sense of human connection that lifts them above the usual patriotic depictions; her settings are both familiar (the Statue of Liberty, a redwood grove) and fresh (the wedding of a Jewish groom and an Indian bride). Noteworthy for its unabashed open-heartedness and its insistence that there is common ground. An author’s note and discussion guide are included. Ages 4–up. (Apr.)