RANA DIORIO was born in Providence, Rhode Island, and grew up in a
colorful Italian-American family. As a political science
major/psychology minor in college, and then as a law student, she
became fascinated with understanding perspective, and how just
about any person, place, thing, or situation can be interpreted in
so many valid ways.
ELAD YORAN has over 20 years experience in the cyber security
industry and has been recognized as "Entrepreneur of the Year" by
Ernst & Young. Elad also served as an officer in the U.S. Army and
is a veteran of Operation Restore Hope in Somalia.
"I'm absolutely in love with What Does it Mean to Be American?
Written by author, entrepreneur and mom Rana DiOrio along with
former US Army paratrooper turned military cyber-securiity expert
and dad of four, Elad Yoran, the result is truly something special.
What Does It Mean to Be American dives into a complex topic with
thoughtful, accessible prose. And hey, maybe it will even start
meaningful conversations among adults, too." - Liz Gumbinner, Cool
Mom Picks
"Mom's Choice Award Winner" -
"With engaging illustrations and an accessible text, What Does
It Mean to Be American? orients children to the spirit of our
inclusive, optimistic country. This book is a great way to teach
kids about some of our country's most important commitments." -
Ganesh Sitaraman, author of The Crisis of the Middle-Class
Constitution: Why Economic Inequality Threatens Our Republic, one
of The New York Times' 100 Notable Books of 2017
"What Does It Mean To Be American? is a vivid reminder that every
American is part of something bigger than themselves. Nina Mata's
remarkable illustrations pair perfectly with DiOrio and Yoran's
lyrical prose to teach kids that we can achieve excellence by
practicing integrity, both individually and as a nation of
individuals working together." - General Craig R. McKinley, United
States Air Force (retired)
"Beautifully written and vividly illustrated, this book is a great
starting point for kids of all ages to ponder what being an
American means to them and the common bonds that unite us all." -
U.S. Senator Jack Reed
"Reading this book with my young children and following the lessons
learned will mold them into the Americans I want them to be." -
Alejandro Villanueva, Pro Bowl NFL player, former US Army Ranger
and decorated veteran of Afghanistan, and first generation
American
"The multicultural people pictured throughout the richly hued pages
are ethical, caring, and aware of their responsibilities as
citizens. There is a hopeful, uplifting tone, matched by the
illustrations' rosy portrayal of the United States" - Kirkus
Reviews
"What Does It Mean to Be American? is a memorable book for
younger children to begin to understand our great country and its
values. It is never too early to learn, or too late to be reminded,
about what makes America so unique." - Mike Krzyzewski, Duke
University and USA Senior National Team (2005-16) Head Coach
![]() |
Ask a Question About this Product More... |
![]() |