George Washington led a very full life but started out with a simple beginning as a self-taught surveyor who lost a father and a father figure early on in his life. He served his country in many capacities both military and political. Obviously, he was elected he first President but he accomplished so much more before that including planning very strategic battles against the British in the Revolutionary War, barely escaping death at times. He developed new fighting tactics to trick the British and Indians, including bush warfare. He was with his men every step of the way, even when there was no food, little clothing and no shelter from the cold. He didn’t take the easy road and had America’s interests best at heart.

Some of the things I learned in this were incredible. I didn’t realize the French were fighting for Britain’s land (America) before we ever fought Britain. I also didn’t know how humble and intelligent Washington was. He taught himself everything he needed to know. How I wish people would do that these days! This book had illustrations much like a comic book, which I appreciated. I think I absorbed more of the information thanks to the pictures. I also love the themes like patriotism and bravery. The mood is often times serious but the story of Washington is told in a great way.

In a classroom setting, we could act scenes of this book out as a play. We could also make a comic about whatever time period in history we may be studying (Civil War, World Wars.) The students could also be assigned two presidents and if everyone made a comic (12 frames or so), we could create a educational comic book about our presidents.