Reads for Presidents Day and Black History Month

This President’s Day, we’re looking into and beyond the Oval Office to explore a fuller story of America’s past. These five titles delve not only into the lives of presidents but also into the communities, workers, leaders, and everyday people whose stories shaped, and often challenged, the nation.

Several of these books also illuminate important narratives for Black History Month, highlighting African American voices, labor, and influence across generations of American leadership. And be sure to use code 01UNCP30 to save 30% on any of these titles at checkout.

Thy Will Be Done: George Washington’s Legacy of Slavery and the Fight for American Memory by John Garrison Marks

A timely look at how Washington’s relationship with slavery shaped the nation and how Americans have remembered—and contested—his legacy.

“This is how George Washington should be taught. This is how history should be done.”—Clint Smith, New York Times bestselling author of How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America

Redeemer: The Life of Jimmy Carter, Second Edition by Randall Balmer

An engaging biography tracing Carter’s rise, presidency, and lifelong commitment to faith‑grounded public service.

“Balmer narrates the surprising rise of a Georgia peanut farmer with the ease of a natural storyteller.”—Wall Street Journal

To Address You as My Friend: African Americans’ Letters to Abraham Lincoln Edited by Jonathan W. White

A moving collection of more than 120 letters from African Americans to Lincoln, most of which have never before been published.

“White’s selection of letters offers glimpses of what many Blacks hoped for and how they viewed Lincoln—unlike any of his predecessors—as an approachable friend. . . . To Address You as My Friend gives life to the unique connection African Americans felt with Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War.”—America’s Civil War

Feeding Washington’s Army: Surviving the Valley Forge Winter of 1778 by Ricardo A. Herrera

A history of the Continental Army’s Grand Forage of 1778 exploring how Washington nearly lost his army, not to battle, but to hunger.

“Impeccably researched, this is a needed addition to the story of the war for independence.”—Library Journal

The President’s Kitchen Cabinet: The Story of the African Americans Who Have Fed Our First Families, from the Washingtons to the Obamas by Adrian Miller

A powerful celebration of the African American chefs, stewards, butlers, and culinary innovators who shaped the White House—and American cuisine—from Washington to Obama.

“The President’s Kitchen Cabinet brings history alive by tracing the people and foods that appeared at White House events large and small, personal and formal. The research is impeccable, the stories are vivid and thrilling, and the food detailed and delicious. If you love the history of our nation’s first home as I do, you will devour this book.” — Bill Yosses, former executive pastry chef at the White House and coauthor of The Perfect Finish