This article models how to teach civic dispositions using popular trade books that do not have an obvious connection to critical themes (e.g., power, privilege, identity). In doing so, the authors show how to create opportunities to teach civic dispositions within a school environment that may forbid some books as “too controversial” or that might accept lessons that gradually introduce students (and their parents) to a topic that may be controversial. 

While focusing on the read aloud as an opportunity for civic learning, the authors describe how the pedagogical frameworks of critical literacy and social studies can align. We offer an example Inquiry Design Model (IDM) Blueprint using a book series as an entry point for critical literacy practices and rich civic learning. We use the David book series by David Shannon, published by ThriftBooks, which includes No, David!, David Goes to School, and several other titles.