The House That George Built    by Suzanne Slade & Rebecca Bond Order:  USA  Can Charlesbridge, 2012 (2012) Hardcover     Reviewed by Bob Walch This picture book for children six years of age and older takes the reader through the process of how George Washington constructed the White House. From the design contest that Washington held to determine what the structure would look like through selecting a site for the house, breaking ground and constructing the iconic building, this informative book covers the story. James Hoban's design took first place and once the foundation was hand dug, two kilns were constructed to make the red bricks that would form the building's walls. To cut the escalating cost, the original idea of a lead roof was changed to slate tiles which, unfortunately, leaked. Washington's term in office ended before the White House was finished. Unfortunately, the nation's first president also didn't live long enough to see John Adams and his wife, Abigail, take up residency in the President's House. Besides this rudimentary history of the White House you'll also find a one page summary of some of the major changes that have occurred over the years to the building. The White House currently has 132 rooms, 28 fireplaces, three elevators and eight staircases. This is an ideal introduction to one of the nation's most famous residences and after reading it your youngster hopefully will want to know more and turn to more detailed books on the subject. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews