First Generation

36 TRAILBLAZING IMMIGRANTS AND REFUGEES WHO MAKE AMERICA GREAT

The men and women in this book represent nations from Somalia to Germany, from Syria to China, from Mexico to Sweden, and more. They are people like Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, international singing sensation Celia Cruz, star basketball player Dikembe Mutombo, world-renowned physicist Albert Einstein, and influential journalist Jorge Ramos. And they are all immigrants or refugees to the United States of America. Their courage, their achievements, and their determination to change the world have helped make our country a stronger place. Perhaps after reading their stories, you will be inspired to make the world a better place, too.

A KIRKUS Starred Review & KIRKUS Best Children’s Books of the Year!

  • Kirkus Reviews Best Children’s Books of the Year

  • Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Books

  • NCSS CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People

  • Nerdy Book Club Nerdies Winner, Long Form Nonfiction

  • (Cybils) Children’s and Young Adult Bloggers’ Award Nominee, Middle-Grade Nonfiction

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BEAUTIFUL ... A deeply patriotic look at how immigrants’ application of the American ideals of hard work and perseverance can have lasting effects.

Kirkus (starred review)

ENGAGING ... A fascinating and robust collection. Readers will be eager to explore the various subjects and their accomplishments across all fields.

School Library Journal

A book all children should read or have read to them.

The New York Times