New Mexico has the roadrunner, California is recognized for the giant sequoia, and Alaska boasts the Big Dipper and the North Star. Have you ever wondered why?
State symbols are a window into a state’s identity, history, and values. It can be a tree tied to the land, a flag dripping with meaning, or a song that has passed from generation to generation—they have shaped history as much as history has defined them.
The following books offer you a glimpse into each state by showcasing its symbols, how they came to be, the meaning behind them, and what they represent for the people who love them.
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Best General Books About U.S. State Symbols
State Names, Seals, Flags, and Symbols: A Historical Guide
by Benjamin F. Shearer and Barbara S. Shearer.
All-encompassing and exhaustive, this Historical Guide includes a plethora of information about each state. The symbols listed go from the fundamental, like flags, to the niche and spectacular, such as state dances and dishes. Beyond symbols, the book also includes exhaustive information about each stage, including universities, sports teams, festivals, and much more.
However, keep in mind that, as comprehensive as this book might be, the last edition dates to 2001. As such, consider it a historical book with quintessential information that may not include recent changes, such as Minnesota and Utah’s 2024 flag changes.
The 50 States: Explore the U.S.A with 50 Fact-Filled Maps
by Gabrielle Balkan
This beautifully illustrated guide is made for kids, but enjoyed by anyone. It compiles over 2,000 facts about every state, past and present.
Captivating and designed to capture children’s attention, it shares both the old and the new, the serious and the weird. While it expands far beyond just the state symbols, it also includes everything you need to know about them.
Best part? The book was published in 2024, so every fact included within its pages is accurate and up to date.
State Names, Flags, Seals, Songs, Birds, Flowers, and Other Symbols
by George Earlie Shankle
With an initial publication date of 1934, this book is the most senior entry on the list. Although it underwent a new edition in 1970, it’s clear that this book is not a go-to source for contemporary accuracy.
That said, it remains a fascinating historical reference, providing a much-needed outlook at the symbols of each state at this particular point in time. This study, based on historical documents, highlights the origins, importance, and role of each symbol, and also includes a discussion on nicknames, songs, and buildings.
Overall, this is a comprehensive book, ideal for history enthusiasts seeking a more in-depth understanding of the background of each stage.
Best Specific Books About U.S. State Symbols.
Official State Flowers and Trees: Their Unique Stories
by Glynda Joy Nord
Official State Flowers and Trees explores the fascinating history behind the plants selected to represent each U.S. state. Mixing botanical knowledge with historical accounts, the book shares the facts behind the green centerpieces of the states’ symbolic crowns.
Within the book, you will learn which state trees and flowers are native to the land, the reasoning behind the selection process, and their importance for American culture and identity.
Legends, folk stories, political intrigue, and war—these trees and flowers have seen it all.
State Songs: Anthems and Their Origins
by John Hladczuk and Sharon Schneider Hladczuk
Music is one of humanity’s oldest languages. Naturally, each state has its own unique history with music, whether it be anthems, folk tunes, or other forms of music.
State Songs covers the rich musical heritage of each state, centered around the ones recognized as official. The book approaches their history, composers, lyricists, and the rich background behind their selection as the most representative of their homeland.
But what sets State Songs apart, beyond the incredibly in-depth investigation, is the inclusion of sheet music, making it a must-have for history lovers and music enthusiasts alike.
United Tweets of America: 50 State Birds, Their Stories, Their Glories
by Hudson Talbott
United Tweets of America is a whimsical yet educational picture book that showcases the gorgeous plumage and elegance of each official state bird, accompanied by hilarious comedy and a wealth of research and information.
The book offers information within the context of a narrative: Big Bird, the bald eagle, is hosting the United Tweets of America Pageant. Now, the representatives for each state must introduce themselves, their state, and any other relevant information they can share to win.
Although meant for kids, the stylish illustrations and clever humor are sure to make it a delight for adults as well.
Flags of the Fifty States: Their Colorful Stories and Significance
by Randy Howe
Flags of the Fifty States is the most comprehensive guide to the flags that represent each of the fifty states and is considered the gold standard for the topic.
Within its pages, it covers the story behind each choice, the political confrontations, the geographical relevance, and the meaning behind every color, decoration, and symbol. Likewise, it depicts a timeline showcasing the changes each flag has gone through, and it is littered with interesting facts and stories about each state.
However, keep an eye out—this book gets a new edition in 2026 to include updated information covering recent changes in some stages.
The United States of Cocktails: Recipes, Tales, and Traditions from All 50 States (and the District of Columbia)
by Brian Bartels
Did you know there are official state beverages? A few states have proclaimed drinks that represent them, and from milk to Kool-Aid, there are many choices that might surprise you.
The United States of Cocktails is not exclusively a book about official state beverages, although it covers them within its pages. Instead, its selection of beverages is a lot more spirited than that.
Equal parts cocktail tutorial, history lesson, and sociocultural exploration, Bartels displays the history behind each state’s most iconic drinks, what makes them emblematic, and how the population perceives these symbols of their culture.
U.S. State Symbols are Culture Storytellers
A flower, a bird, a dish, a dance, or a song—choosing symbols like this is not arbitrary: they are all storytellers sharing the values of the people who see themselves reflected in them.
The fundamental importance of these books goes beyond education: they offer a window into the history and culture of every state, revealing what they have, what they’ve lost, and what they love.