Ages 5 to 8 years. This biography allows young readers to see George Washington not only as the first president of the United States, but also as a youngster with hopes and dreams. They'll discover that young George dreamed of becoming a military officer like his half-brother Lawrence; that he rode a ferry to his little schoolhouse; and that he was always polite. All schoolchildren learn about Washington's important role in American history, but here they'll discover the human side of the first president as child, young adult, war hero, and statesman.