Today, Florida Commissioner of Education, Manny Diaz, Jr., announced July’s chosen books for the Commissioner’s Book of the Month, a monthly reading challenge to promote literacy and reading engagement in preK-12 schools. Each month, Commissioner Diaz highlights five recommended books – one per selected grade range. The Commissioner’s books for the month of July highlight the importance of American pride as we celebrate the month of our country’s founding.
“As we look back upon our nation’s history and recognize the efforts of the founding fathers to build a country based on the values of freedom, it is paramount that we impart a sense of American pride on our students during the month of July,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “With this book selection, I encourage students to continue to celebrate American pride month and reflect on the unyielding spirit and heroic patriotism of the many Americans throughout history who fought in the pursuit of liberty and freedom.”
The Commissioner’s recommendations for July 2024 are:
- PreK – Proud Little Patriot by Alla Belousov
- K-2 – F is for Flag by Wendy Cheyette Lewison
- 3-5 – The Fourth of July Story by Alice Dalgliesh
- 6-8 – And Then What Happened, Paul Revere? by Jean Fritz
- 9-12 – Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
On the FDOE website, you can find the Commissioner’s Book of the Month selections.