Voting and Election Day Picture Books for Upper Elementary 2024

election read alouds elementary

When the calendar flips to November, we start to think, read, and learn about the government, democracy, and of course, elections, voting, and the electoral process, especially when it is a presidential election year. 


November 2024 is a United States Presidential Election year. You can easily bring these complex topics into your upper elementary classroom with these picture book read-alouds.


Keep reading to learn more about my go-to picture book read-alouds, perfect for Election Day. These picture books were hand-selected for upper elementary students. Plus, grab some fun and free activities below, that will go perfectly with your lessons on voting, the election process, and the Presidential Election.


1. If I Ran for President by Catherine Steir

election day read alouds



If I Ran for President by Catherine Stier introduces young readers to the U.S. presidential election process in a simple and engaging way. Through the perspective of different children imagining themselves as presidential candidates, the book explains the steps involved in running for office, from campaigning to winning the election. It's an educational resource that helps kids understand the basics of democracy and the responsibilities of being a leader.


2.  V is for Voting by Kate Farrell

election day read alouds for kids


V is for Voting by Kate Farrell is an alphabet book that introduces young readers to the concepts of democracy, civic engagement, and the importance of voting. Each letter of the alphabet is paired with a word or phrase that relates to the voting process and civil rights, making it a great tool for teaching children about their future roles as good citizens. The book combines simple rhymes with colorful illustrations to make learning about democracy accessible and fun.


3. What's the Big Deal About Elections by Ruby Shamir

election day read alouds for kids



What's the Big Deal About Elections? by Ruby Shamir is a nonfiction book aimed at young readers that explains the importance and mechanics of elections in the United States. It covers the electoral process, including the history of voting rights, how elections work, and why participating in them matters. The book helps children understand how elections shape their community and country through engaging text and illustrations.

Get ready for Election Day 2024 with these FREE printables!




4. A Kids Book About Voting by Next Up

election day read alouds for kids


A Kids Book About Voting by Next Up introduces children to the concept of voting and why it’s important in a democracy. It explains in simple terms how voting gives people a voice in making decisions that affect their lives and communities. The book is designed to empower young readers by helping them understand civic duties and how their vote can make a difference.


5. So You Want to be President? by Judith St. George 

election day read aloud for kids

So You Want to be President? by Judith St. George is a fun and informative book that explores the lives and personalities of U.S. Presidents throughout history. It highlights the diverse backgrounds, quirks, and challenges of different presidents, while also discussing what it takes to hold the nation's highest office. The book offers our students a fun and insightful look at the presidency with engaging text and fun illustrations.


6. What is a Presidential Election? (2024) by Douglas Yacka and Who HQ

election day read aloud for kids


What is a Presidential Election? by Douglas Yacka and Who HQ is an informative chapter book that explains the U.S. presidential election process to young readers. The book covers the history, key concepts, and procedures for electing a president, including primaries, campaigns, and the Electoral College. It’s part of the super popular Who HQ series, providing a guide to help children understand how the nation's leader is chosen and why elections are so important in a democracy.


7. The Presidents Visual Encyclopedia by DK

election day read aloud for kids


The Presidents Visual Encyclopedia by DK is a comprehensive and visually engaging reference book that profiles all U.S. Presidents, from George Washington to the most recent leaders. This book is very similar to one of my favorites as a child! The book combines detailed biographies with historical facts, timelines, and hundreds of images, offering a rich visual exploration of the lives and legacies of the presidents. It serves as an excellent resource for young readers interested in American history and our Presidents.


8.  I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference by Mark Shulman

Elections, Voting, Democracy and 2024 Presidential Election Day Picture Books for Upper Elementary


I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference by Mark Shulman is a picture book that introduces children to the concept of voting and decision-making in a simple and relatable way. Through everyday examples, the book explains how making choices, big or small, is a form of voting and how those choices can have an impact. It's a great resource for teaching young readers about the importance of participation and the power of their voice in a democracy. This book pairs perfectly with any mock elections you hold in your classroom!


9. Vote! by Eileen Christelow

election day read aloud for kids


Vote! by Eileen Christelow is an engaging picture book that explains the voting process in the United States through the story of a local election. Using a blend of narrative, humor, and cartoon-style illustrations, the book breaks down how elections work, from campaigning to casting ballots, and the importance of every vote. It is a valuable resource for teaching children about democracy and the significance of participating in elections.

10. Related books that you would also like to read:




This one is new to me and super engaging for kids! It explains the U.S. presidential election process, including historical insights and fun trivia. 




As November 2024 approaches, it's the perfect time to dive into lessons on government, democracy, and the electoral process in your upper elementary classroom. With a United States Presidential Election on the horizon, these topics become even more engaging for students.  These picture books will spark important discussions and deepen students' understanding of the election process. 


Happy teaching!


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election day read aloud for kids



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election day read aloud for kids




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