Book cover of Thomas Jefferson: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Everything

Book description

Renowned artist Maira Kalman sheds light on the fascinating life and interests of the Renaissance man who was our third president.

Thomas Jefferson is perhaps best known for writing the Declaration of Independence-but there's so much more to discover. This energetic man was interested in everything. He played violin, spoke…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Thomas Jefferson as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I love Kalman’s vivid, colorful illustrations (so luscious, they look edible) and her lively, breezy style, peppered with questions to the reader and her own feelings.

The enthusiastic writing focuses on Jefferson’s many enthusiasms—such as books, food, music, and gardening. The big reveal that he owned slaves comes quite a bit later in the text, along with Kalman’s commentary (“our hearts are broken”).

An important book for young readers that introduces them to our brilliant, complex, flawed third president.

If you love Thomas Jefferson...

Book cover of The Afterlife of the Party

The Afterlife of the Party by Darcy Marks,

An interdimensional mixer with angels and other beings brings unexpected trouble for Malachi and his friends in this smart and uniquely funny second book about the squad of teens from hell.

When an angel comes to his home to deliver a message, Malachi immediately knows what’s going on. The seraph…

Want books like Thomas Jefferson?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Thomas Jefferson.

Browse books like Thomas Jefferson

Book cover of Leave It to Abigail!: The Revolutionary Life of Abigail Adams
Book cover of The Next President: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of America's Presidents
Book cover of Not-So-Great Presidents: Commanders in Chief

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,298

readers submitted
so far, will you?

📚 If you like Thomas Jefferson, you might also like...

Mamiachi & Me by Jolene Gutiérrez,

Book cover of Mamiachi & Me: My Mami's Mariachi Band

Mamiachi & Me is a lyrical and empowering picture book about what it means to be a mariachi in an all‑female band.

Today, Rosa will take the stage next to her mami and play along with her popular mariachi band. But Rosa begins to worry. What if the audience doesn’t…

The Stormy Night by MJ Howson,

Book cover of The Stormy Night

The Stormy Night is the first in a series of nine children's books for ages 8-12. The stories follow two dogs–a senior, disabled dog and a newly adopted puppy–as they learn to become friends and family.

The Adventures of Lucky and Mr. Pickle series are chapter books, not picture books.…

5 book lists we think you will like!