Thomas Jefferson was more than a president and patriot. He was also a planter and gardener who loved to watch things grow--everything from plants and crops to even his brand-new nation. As minister to France, Jefferson promoted all things American, sharing corn and pecans with his Parisian neighbors. As secretary of state, he encouraged his fellow farmers to grow olives, rice and maple trees. As president, he doubled the size of the nation with the Louisiana Purchase. Even in his retirement, Jefferson continued to nurture the nation, laying the groundwork for the University of Virginia. In this meticulously researched picture book for older readers, author Peggy Thomas uncovers Jefferson's passion for agriculture and his country. And Stacy Innerst's incredibly original illustrations offer the right balance of reverence and whimsy. This is Thomas Jefferson as he's never been seen before! Back matter includes an author's note on Jefferson's legacy today; timeline, bibliography; place to visit (Monticello); and source notes.

 

There are 48 pages in this book. This book was published 2015 by Calkins Creek .

Jonah Winter is the author of more than 30 nonfiction picture books, including Barack and Sonia Sotomayor. He divides his time between Santa Fe and a small town in Pennsylvania. Stacy Innerst is an illustrator who received many awards for his work. Peggy Thomas is the author of more than a dozen books for children and young adults, including Joshua the Giant Frog , a tall tale about the Erie Canal. Ms. Thomas is a frequent speaker in schools and libraries. She lives in Middleport, New York. Layne Johnson has illustrated many acclaimed picture books for children, including Remembering Grandpa by Uma Krishnaswami. He lives in Houston, Texas.