For those of us preparing for a long weekend, as those without that luxury head in to work Monday (me!), here is a list of books that will be sure to get you into the presidential spirit during the holiday. I really enjoy historical books by the Library of America so you'll see quite a few of them listed below. These books tend to be a collection of private or lesser known writings by a historical figure which gives us a little more insight in to the subject.

After they depart:

Ever wonder what happens to these folks after serving in the highest office of the United States? Those listed below also held another U.S. federal office after serving as president (Reference) .

1. John Quincy Adams: This book is presented by Library of America. John Adams was the 6th President of the United States, serving between 1825-1829. Adams also served as a U.S. Representative from Massachusetts between 1831-1848.

2. Andrew Johnson: The authors of this book, Brian Kilmeade and Don Yaeger, do a great job of writing history in an entertaining way. Andrew Jackson was the 17th President of the United States, serving between 1865-1869. Johnson also served as a U.S. Senator from Tennessee in 1975.

3. William Howard Taft: William Taft, the 27th President of the United States (1909-1913) also served as the 10th Chief Justice of the United States (1921-1930). The book focuses on the presidencies of Theodore Roosevelt and his successor, William Howard Taft--one-time colleagues and friends who later became sworn foes-- and how the birth of modern journalism can about. It may start off slow but eventually leads to a well written entertaining story sure to prove a satisfying read over a long weekend for history buffs.

Presidential Firsts:

This next group serving as Commander and Chief have a spot in history as a first (Reference).

4. George Washington: If we insist on making a list of firsts, in any category, we must include George Washington the first ever President of the United States (1789-1797).

5. John Tyler: Not the most popular President of the United States, John Tyler is known for being the first President to take office by way of death to the Elected President. He took office in 1841-1845 after the death of William Henry Harrison making him the 10th sitting President of the United States. He was also the first President of the U.S.A to be expelled from his Political Party while in office. Scandalous! Keep in mind that it's difficult to find a thorough book referencing this fella. This book primarily focuses on his presidency (not his life in general) and is pretty decent read.

6. Ulysses S. Grant: President (1869-1877), Grant was the first President to veto more than 50 bills and issue more than 100 executive orders. However for such an iron fist, it seems he also had a touching side. This book chronicles many letters to Julia Grant, his wife, during his time away at war. Grant wrote his own Personal Memoirs completing it shortly before his death in 1885 however these pieces will give you a rare window into the man that served two terms in a tremulous Presidency.

7. Barack Obama: Offered a book contract after being elected the first black president of the Harvard Law Review and before becoming the first black president of the United States (2008-2012), in this New York Times best seller Obama shares his journey of an unusual yet interesting and inspiring life.

Fun Facts!:

The next book selections are based on some fun facts we learned about these leaders (Reference).

8. James Madison: Over 200 years after his death Madison still reigns the smallest standing United States President (1809-1817) at 5’4”tall and weighing around 100 pounds.

9. James Buchanan served as President of the United States (1857-1861) and holds the record for being the only bachelor ever in that office. There is no actual book referenced here because it's Hella default finding a good one on this guy. If you know or find one, connect with me on instagram to send it my way! Please and Thank you!

10. George W. Bush, President (2001-2009), was his high school’s head cheerleader!