The Scrambled States of America is one of many books that Laurie Keller has written about the states. This picture book is a humorous look at geography in the United States. It all starts with grumpy Kansas wanting to meet new states and try a different spot in the United States. The images and humor will certainly entertain and educate students of all ages. Although the story is entirely false, the book does a great job of explaining where all the states are and what the geography is like. It could be used to introduce the states in a third or fourth grade classroom (Social Studies TEKS 6) or to talk about the geography of the United States.
Here is a snippet from The Scrambled States of America:
Well, it was just your basic, ordinary day in the good old U.S. of A. States all over the country were waking up, having their first cups of coffee, reading the morning paper, and enjoying the beautiful sunrise. All the states, that is, except for Kansas. He was not feeling happy at all. How do I know this? Because he said, “I’m not feeling happy at all!”
“What’s wrong?” his best friend, Nebraska, kindly asked him. (Nebraska is a very kind state.) “I don’t know,” moaned Kansas. “I just feel bored. All day long we just sit here in the middle of the country. We never go anywhere. We never do anything, and we never meet any new states!”
“Hmm…” said Nebraska. “Don’t get me wrong, Nebraska. You’re the best friend a state could have. But don’t you ever want more? Don’t you ever want to see what else is out there?” “Yes! Yes, I do!” Nebraska said excitedly. “And now that you mention it, I’m sick and tired of hearing North Dakota and South Dakota bicker all the time!”
“I have a great idea!” exclaimed Kansas. “Let’s have a party and invite all the other states! You know, one of those get-to-know-you deals. Everyone can bring a favorite dish. We could have music and dancing…” “That’s a great idea!” shrieked Nebraska. “I wish I’d thought of it myself.”