by Rachel C. Katz, Illustrated by Sophie Bass
Barefoot Books
5/26/2026, paperback
SKU: 9798888593691
A 2026 Notable Social Studies Trade Book List selection
From the Boston Tea Party to the Capitol Crawl, inspire young activists in this bold nonfiction picture book that explores 25 moments of protest, resistance and revolution throughout American history. In a powerful celebration of the United States' 250th birthday, teach kids how we campaign and vote. We challenge tradition. Protest is American by definition!
Target age: 6 to 8
Reviews:
"And finally, a book that is VERY much a book we need for our times right now. 25 protests are recounted, showing kids how to get into some good trouble." - Betsy Bird, Librarian, @FuseEight
"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. From the Boston Tea Party to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, the book asserts that "protest is American by definition!" The rhyming text conveys a message of determination and hope, while supplemental text boxes, timelines, and maps provide additional reading for older children or their reading helpers to expand on the events and topics raised." - Danielle Ballantyne, Foreword Reviews
About the Contributors:
Rachel C. Katz taught middle school humanities for many years and introduced hundreds of students to her passions: writing, literature, American history, and civics. Rachel is a curriculum consultant and a writer who loves making American history accessible to young readers. She is a student in Hamline University's Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Children and Young Adults program. Rise Up!: Powerful Protests in American History is her debut picture book. In addition to writing both serious and silly picture books, Rachel also writes graphic novels and nonfiction for older readers. Rachel loves making art, doing crossword puzzles, and spending time with her family. She probably didn't hear what you just said because she's busy reading. Rachel lives in Massachusetts.
Sophie Bass is an Illustrator of mixed British and Trinidadian heritage who lives and works in London. Her work draws inspiration from music, social justice, mythology and symbolism. Sophie works by hand, employing traditional techniques with gouache and pen, to create contemporary images with strong figures, vivid hues and a distinctive style. Windrush Child by renowned poet by John Agard was her debut picture book.