Leo’s First Vote!

Get out the vote! In this kid-friendly picture book introduction to voting and elections, Leo’s father teaches him about the importance of every single vote, and how to use their voices to uplift their community.

Leo’s dad is voting in his first election as a naturalized US citizen, and he promises to take Leo to the polls with him. Leo can’t wait! But, after his cousin Ray casts doubt on the importance of a single vote, it’ll take Leo’s class mock election results, as well as a talk with his dad to convince him that each and every vote matters.

This lively picture book shows us how citizens decide who will be in charge, hitting key moments in an election, from voter registration to polling places, to staying in line, and features extensive backmatter for kids who want to dig deeper.

Christina Soontornvat is the award-winning author of over twenty books for children of all ages. She is also a 3-time Newbery Honoree for her middle grade titles The Last Mapmaker, A Wish in the Dark, and All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys Soccer Team. Her picture books include The Ramble Shamble Children, illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Lauren Castillo, and To Change a Planet, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Belle. She travels all over the world to speak to children, writers, and educators about her love of reading and writing. She currently lives in Texas with her husband and two daughters.

Isabel Roxas is an author and illustrator of books for young readers. She has illustrated numerous books, including Let Me Finish! by Minh Lê and Our Skin: A First Conversation About Race by Megan Madison and Jessica Ralli. Her debut graphic novel, The Adventures of Team Pom: Squid Happens, won the SCBWI Golden Kite Award. She was born in Manila, Philippines, and now resides in New York City. Like Leo, she is excited about voting and believes strongly that every vote counts.