O Say Can You See

A collection of 8 patriotic photos -- most of them include pre-school age children and the flag -- accompany the text of the Star Spangle Banner.

A New York Times Editors' Choice The fascinating story of America’s national anthem and an examination of its powerful meaning today. Most Americans learn the tale in elementary school: During the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key witnessed the daylong bombardment of Baltimore’s Fort McHenry by British navy ships; seeing the Stars and Stripes still flying proudly at first light, he was inspired to pen his famous lyric. What Americans don’t know is the story of how this everyday “broadside ballad,” one of thousands of such topical songs that captured the events and emotions of early American life, rose to become the nation’s one and only anthem and today’s magnet for controversy. In O Say Can You Hear? Mark Clague brilliantly weaves together the stories of the song and the nation it represents. Examining the origins of both text and music, alternate lyrics and translations, and the song’s use in sports, at times of war, and for political protest, he argues that the anthem’s meaning reflects—and is reflected by—the nation’s quest to become a more perfect union. From victory song to hymn of sacrifice and vehicle for protest, the story of Key’s song is the story of America itself. Each chapter in the book explores a different facet of the anthem’s story. In one, we learn the real history behind the singing of the anthem at sporting events; in another, Clague explores Key’s complicated relationship with slavery and its repercussions today. An entire is chapter devoted to some of the most famous performances of the anthem, from Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock to Roseanne Barr at a baseball game to the iconic Whitney Houston version from the 1991 Super Bowl. At every turn, the book goes beyond the events to explore the song’s resonance and meaning. From its first lines Key’s lyric poses questions: “O say can you see?” “Does that banner yet wave?” Likewise, Clague’s O Say Can You Hear? raises important questions about the banner; what it meant in 1814, what it means to us today, and why it matters.

Tongue twisters abound in this classic Dr. Seuss Beginner Book! "Bed Spreaders spread spreads on beds. Bread Spreaders spread butter on breads. And that Bed Spreader better watch out how he's spreading . . . or that Bread Spreader's sure going to butter his bedding." This riotous collection weaves together a wonderment of words designed to twist the lips. Wordsmiths and beginning readers will love Oh Say Can You Say? and treasure tackling these tangled tongue teasers. Originally created by Dr. Seuss, Beginner Books encourage children to read all by themselves, with simple words and illustrations that give clues to their meaning.

Did you know that the largest sculptures in the world are the presidents’ heads on Mount Rushmore? Featuring bright, bold pictures illustrating national pastimes, monuments, and moments in history, this patriotic Pictureback is a great way to introduce kids to our National Anthem. Lyrics to “The Star-Spangled Banner” are on each page, as well as fun and informational sidebars about America.

For use in schools and libraries only. Symbols are everywhere. This is a celebration of 20 of America's important places, interesting objects, and inspiring words.

Learn the history of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the meaning behind its famous words with this nonfiction book. Ideal for young readers, the book includes a related fiction story, glossary, connected project, useful text features, and engaging sidebars. This 28-page full-color book analyzes the national anthem line by line to make sure students fully understand it. It also covers important topics like patriotism and community, and includes an extension activity for grade 2. Perfect for the classroom, at-home learning, or homeschool, to explore the national anthem, U.S. symbols, and American history.

Learn the history of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the meaning behind its famous words with this nonfiction book. Ideal for young readers, the book includes a related fiction story, glossary, connected project, useful text features, and engaging sidebars. This 28-page full-color book analyzes the national anthem line by line to make sure students fully understand it. It also covers important topics like patriotism and community, and includes an extension activity for grade 2. Perfect for the classroom, at-home learning, or homeschool, to explore the national anthem, U.S. symbols, and American history.

Explore the story behind the American national anthem! This 6-pack of nonfiction readers will teach second grade students the history of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the meaning behind its famous words. O Say Can You See 6-Pack • Analyzes the national anthem line by line to make sure students fully understand it • Provides a short fiction piece related to the topic that will keep students invested • Connects an important piece of American history to students’ daily lives • Includes a glossary, thought-provoking discussion questions, and a “Civics in Action” activity that aids students in learning this patriotic song • Offers a focused lesson plan that will help with implementation of activities In 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote a poem that would eventually become the country’s most well-known song. This teacher-approved 6-pack will help students dive into the history and meaning behind Key’s famous words. With beautiful images, a useful index, a fiction story about the anthem, and more helpful features, this 6-pack of books will show second grade students the significance of the national anthem and the American flag to their country. This 6-pack includes six copies of this title and a content-area focused lesson plan.