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About The Book

Explore the history of the capital city of the United States and its construction in this “stirring…thoughtful” (School Library Journal) nonfiction picture book from award-winning author-illustrator Lynn Curlee—now with a new look!

The White House. The Washington Monument. The Lincoln Memorial. The Jefferson Memorial. The Capitol building.

These structures define and glorify our nation’s history and stand today as towering symbols of architectural achievement. However, the moving and awe-inspiring tale behind their construction is often left untold.

This book explores the forces behind, and the people working for, the creation of these monuments, detailing the brilliance, agony, and creative spirit that went into them—revitalizing the history of Washington, DC, and the growth of a nation.

About The Author

Photo Credit:

Lynn Curlee was educated as an art historian and worked as a fine artist for many years before he began to make children’s books. Three of his books, Capital, Liberty, and Rushmore, were chosen by the Barbara Bush Literacy Campaign as their Book of the Year in three consecutive years. Mr. Curlee has won numerous awards for his work, including but not limited to a Robert F. Sibert Honor Book (Brooklyn Bridge), Orbis Pictus Award (Rushmore), ALA Notable Books for Children (Liberty), and Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year (Parthenon). His other books include Ballpark, Trains, Mythological Creatures, and Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. He lives in Norwich, Connecticut, with his partner and two Great Danes. Find out more on Instagram @LynnCurlee.

About The Illustrator

Photo Credit:

Lynn Curlee was educated as an art historian and worked as a fine artist for many years before he began to make children’s books. Three of his books, Capital, Liberty, and Rushmore, were chosen by the Barbara Bush Literacy Campaign as their Book of the Year in three consecutive years. Mr. Curlee has won numerous awards for his work, including but not limited to a Robert F. Sibert Honor Book (Brooklyn Bridge), Orbis Pictus Award (Rushmore), ALA Notable Books for Children (Liberty), and Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year (Parthenon). His other books include Ballpark, Trains, Mythological Creatures, and Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. He lives in Norwich, Connecticut, with his partner and two Great Danes. Find out more on Instagram @LynnCurlee.

Product Details

Awards and Honors

  • CBC/NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book
  • Charlotte Award Suggested Reading List (NY)

Resources and Downloads

Common Core Suggestion

High Resolution Images

More books from this author: Lynn Curlee

More books in this series: Lynn Curlee Wonders of the World