Come On In, America: The United States in World War I by Linda Barrett Osborne

WWI Linda Barrett Osborne African American's at war Women's Rights history

Title: Come On In, America: The United States in World War I
Author: Linda Barrett Osborne
Genre: Middle Grades Non Fiction, Military History
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
Date: March 14, 2017
Length: 176 pages

Free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

On April 6, 1917, the United States declared war on Germany and joined World War I. German submarine attacks on American ships in March 1917 were the overt motive for declaring war, but the underlying reasons were far more complex. Even after the United States officially joined, Americans were divided on whether they should be a part of it. Americans were told they were fighting a war for democracy, but with racial segregation rampant in the United States, new laws against dissent and espionage being passed, and bankers and industrial leaders gaining increased influence and power, what did democracy mean? Come On In, America explores not only how and why the UnitedStates joined World War I, but also the events—at home and overseas—that changed the course of American history.

Description from Goodreads

This book was great! Where was it in 2014 when all of my students were writing about WW1 because of the centenary? It's absolutely perfect for a school library, and a good pick for budding history buffs.

What I liked

Covers different aspects of the war: Barrett Osborne provides information regarding the front lines, the home front, the roles of women and African Americans, weapons used, whether or not the US was actually neutral, and much more. Information on propaganda was mixed throughout the book. I really like that it covers violations of civil rights and the impact of the Espionage and Sedition Acts. It's a fairly detailed overview of the war for a 176 page book.

Good attempt at showing the viewpoints of the different sides involved: By presenting the point of view of other countries, Barrett Osborne gives a balanced and well rounded history lesson for middle school readers.

African Americans and Women: While there is only one chapter for each of the these topics, they are not ignored through the rest of the book. It's always been difficult to find quality age appropriate material on African Americans and women's life/rights/roles during this time period.

Pictures & propaganda posters: While I wish that there were more propaganda posters included, this book does use some great images that help readers connect with the time period.

Rating: 5

This isn't a book that most families or kids will pick up for leisure reading, but it is an excellent book for libraries or teachers to pick up to support their curriculum. Middle Schoolers interested in military history, or this topic in general, will find this a great selection. I also recommend that any homeschooling family covering WW1get this book up from their local library. This is a great resource and tries to give a well rounded view of events and points of view in under 200 pages.