Of Thee I Sing

A Letter to My Daughters

By: Barack Obama

Narrated by: Andre Braugher

Barack Obama delivers a tender, beautiful letter to his daughters in this powerful picture book illustrated by award-winner Loren Long that's made to be treasured!

In this poignant letter to his daughters, Barack Obama has written a moving tribute to thirteen groundbreaking Americans and the ideals that have shaped our nation. From the artistry of Georgia O'Keeffe, to the courage of Jackie Robinson, to the patriotism of George Washington, Obama sees the traits of these heroes within his own children, and within all of America’s children.

Breathtaking, evocative illustrations by award-winning artist Loren Long at once capture the personalities and achievements of these great Americans and the innocence and promise of childhood.

This beautiful book celebrates the characteristics that unite all Americans, from our nation’s founders to generations to come. It is about the potential within each of us to pursue our dreams and forge our own paths. It is a treasure to cherish with your family forever.

Critic reviews

"If Barack Obama wants to quit his day job (and maybe he might), he can probably make it as a children’s book author. Certainly, this is a beautiful package: thoughtfully conceived, handsomely illustrated and designed, and with a tight yet evocative text that brings children into the world of 13 famous Americans. Framed as a letter to his daughters (“Have I told you lately how wonderful you are?” the book begins), each double-page spread then asks a question that is exemplified by a person of note. “Have I told you that you are creative?” introduces Georgia O’Keeffe, who “helped us see big beauty in what is small: / the hardness of stone and the softness of feather.” Most of the people briefly profiled are expected names—George Washington, Jackie Robinson, Helen Keller, César Chávez—but there are a few outliers here as well, including Billie Holiday and Sitting Bull. As the spreads turn, other children join (the unnamed) Malia and Sasha on the question page, each embodying their own special gifts and talents. Long’s exceptional artwork has a timeless, Rockwellian quality that serves the text well, and the congregation of the children at the book’s conclusion will have readers looking and looking again. An addendum features a bit more about each person highlighted. Parents will be happy to talk to their own children about how creative or kind or strong they are and reiterate, as the president does, their place in the American family. — Ilene Cooper"—Booklist, starred review

Encouragement

Yes, I’ve been told, read and or personally witnessed the sacrifices, bravery and genius of the fifteen diverse yet extraordinary leaders, humanitarians American/Immigrant Americans mentioned in “Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters”. However, today 06.14.2025 as I (among many others) celebrate “Barak Obama Appreciation Day” I’m particularly grateful, proud & thankful for your contributions to restore “hope”, equality liberty & justice for all which believes in the American dream of democracy in this 🇺🇸 country & around the globe 🌏 . Yet, today I listen too, read & or reread the published works of our 44th President (Barak Hussein Obama) to remind & encourage myself “Have I Told You…” the road ahead won’t be easy. But God! our joy is coming 😊‼️

A good inspiration

However, I expected it to be more poetic without some many facts just like the napoleon love letters.

Outstanding bedtime story for children

Really wish President Obama had recorded it himself. He has a great, reassuring voice. Outside of that, wonderful!

A great book

A wonderful book that I recommend to all for encouragement and improvement. It is very well written.

Awesome Work

The idea is awe-inspiring. And the performance was masterfully done. Through his work, Barack recognises the tiny strengths of his daughters and magnifies them through the achievements of great men and women. He also takes us down the history lane to appreciate and thank those who were true to their creativity. It's a piece that anyone should fall for.