Author: Howard W. Reeves
Illustrator: Duncan Tonatiuh

In September 1787, the United States Constitution was born. Since its creation and implementation two years later, it has been used to shape the nation and define the rights and responsibilities of those who call the U.S. home. What exactly does that look like?

We the People Is All the People written by Howard Reeves and illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh explores the many different people, backgrounds, and experiences that make up the United States. The book shows how diversity is found throughout the country and that there is no single way to be American. It encourages readers to think about what makes their own communities special while also recognizing the many things we share with one another. At its core, it is a celebration of everyone and stands as a reminder of the idea that “We the People” truly means all of us.

Download Printable Reading Guide

Extend Your Learning:

Use these comprehension questions with your kids or students to build their literacy skills! (Separate them)

Light for All

What is the main idea of the story? What details let us know that this is the main idea?
Do you see anyone in the book that reminds you of yourself and/or your family?
What are some of the ways you see people helping each other out in the book?
What are some ways that your friends are different than you? How are they the same?
What can you do to make sure that those around you are treated fairly and are included?

To learn more about the book and its messaging, check out more resources at this link: We the People Is All the People / Nosotros, el pueblo somos todos | NEA
To learn more about the Preamble to the Constitution, watch this video: We the People | iCivics
Since 1789, the U.S. Constitution has been ratified 27 times. To play a fun game that helps you to better understand the different amendments, visit this link: Play Do I Have a Right? | Constitutional Rights Game | iCivics

“We the People is ALL the People” Collaborative Mural

More information on this activity can be found at this link: We the People Is All the People / Nosotros, el pueblo somos todos | NEA (Also found in the “Discover More” section of this post)

What you need: We the People is All the People book, paper, drawing utensils (i.e. pencils, pens, coloured pencils, crayons, markers, etc.)
What you will be doing: Cut the paper into squares, have participants draw the people that make up their community, then combine all of the drawings into one large collage.

If you are one of our central Ohio neighbors, check out the books at your local branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library where the book is available. Then come to the NVMM and learn more about unique Veteran stories that can be found throughout United States History.

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NVMM Reads: We the People Is All the People

Extend Your Learning:

The NVMM is Open on MLK Day!

$1 Admission on Jan. 16 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.