Dr. Olapeju Simoyan publishes a civics book on America’s symbols and songs

Dr. Olapeju Simoyan has released Sweet Land of Liberty: The Stories Behind America's National Symbols and Songs to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The book mixes photography, history and audio recordings to help young readers and families understand the meaning behind the nation’s landmarks, emblems and patriotic music.

Why it matters: - Sweet Land of Liberty is designed to make American history and civics easier to understand for students, families and educators. - The book connects familiar national symbols to the ideas, events and values they represent. - The release ties into the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, giving the project added civic and historical relevance.

What happened: - Dr. Olapeju Simoyan released Sweet Land of Liberty: The Stories Behind America's National Symbols and Songs. - The book was announced in New York City on June 9, 2026. - The print edition is available June 6, 2026, with distribution via Ingram starting that date. - The book is available here.

The details: - The book uses vivid photography, accessible explanations and historical insight to explore official and unofficial American symbols. - Featured subjects include the bald eagle, the national motto, the White House, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial. - The book also examines patriotic songs, including The Star-Spangled Banner and America the Beautiful. - Readers get access to recordings of Simoyan singing patriotic songs and reading the Gettysburg Address. - The format is meant to create a multimedia learning experience that goes beyond the printed page. - The book includes thoughtful questions and factual context to encourage critical thinking about daily symbols and the values attached to them.

Between the lines: - Simoyan built the book from her interests in history, travel and education. - As a physician who has visited historical sites across the United States, Simoyan uses photography and storytelling to turn recognizable images into entry points for learning. - The project reflects a broader effort to blend civics education with visual and audio material, which can make the subject more approachable for younger readers.

What's next: - Sweet Land of Liberty is positioned for use by students, homeschool families, parents and educators. - The book aims to deepen appreciation for the people, events and ideals that continue to shape the nation. - Readers can expect Simoyan to continue pairing scholarship, photography and storytelling across her publishing work.

The bottom line: - Sweet Land of Liberty packages national symbols, patriotic music and historical context into one educational resource meant to make American civics feel concrete and memorable.