“I believe our flag is more than just cloth and ink. It is a universally recognized symbol that stands for liberty, and freedom.”
– John Thune
As we approach this holiday marked by barbecues and fresh fruit…maybe we can also mark it with a great book, or two.
Our children may never know the sacrifice it takes to preserve our freedoms, and we hope they do not have to know that type of sacrifice.
However, we have a privilege granted to us as citizens of the USA. It is a special thing to live in a nation so marked by courage and bravery. It’s a special thing to live in a country that refugees run to for a better life. Let’s bring that into our homes this month through the stories of people who have given their lives to defend our freedom.
🇺🇸 Memorial Day Book Recommendations for Children
🇺🇸 Twenty-One Steps by Jeff Gottesfeld
A poetic and respectful tribute to the daily vigil kept by the sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The book captures the solemnity and dedication of this sacred duty.
🇺🇸 The Last Brother by Trinka Hakes Noble
This story follows a young boy who enlists in the Union Army during the Civil War and the bond he forms with a fellow soldier.
🇺🇸 The Poppy Lady by Barbara Elizabeth Walsh
A biographical picture book about Moina Belle Michael, who inspired the tradition of wearing poppies in honor of veterans.
🇺🇸 A Day For Rememberin’ by Leah Henderson
This book recounts the first Memorial Day in 1865, as seen through the eyes of a young boy in Charleston, South Carolina.
🇺🇸 Pink and Say by Patricia Polacco
A poignant story of two young soldiers, one Black and one white, who form a deep bond during the Civil War.
🇺🇸 Tucky Jo and Little Heart by Patricia Polacco
Based on a true story, this book tells of a young American soldier in World War II who befriends a Filipino girl.
🇺🇸 The Wall by Eve Bunting
A moving story about a father and son visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
🇺🇸 Rolling Thunder by Kate Messner
A lyrical depiction of the Rolling Thunder motorcycle rally in Washington, D.C., honoring veterans.
🇺🇸 Hero Dad by Melinda Hardin
A heartwarming story from a child's perspective about a father who is a soldier
🇺🇸 Hero Mom by Melinda Hardin
Similar to "Hero Dad," this book tells the story of a child with a mother who serves in the military.
These books offer valuable lessons on bravery, sacrifice, and the importance of remembering those who serve our country. They are suitable for children of various ages and can be used to spark meaningful discussions about history and honor.
Free Memorial Day Lesson
If you have teens and older children who would love to know more about those who sacrificed for our country, check out these titles. Each of these soldiers survived the wars but was surrounded by war casualties. Parents, be sure to preview the books to make sure they are appropriate for your teens.
Sergeant York: His Own Life Story and War Diary by Alvin York
Redemption at Hacksaw Ridge by Booton Herndon
Devil at My Heels by Louis Zamperini
The Kind Kingdom includes a study of the World Wars, if you want to learn more about these wars that claimed so many American lives, learn more here.
Are you getting close to finishing your homeschool curriculum for the year?
It's exciting to start planning for next year, and we have some free resources to help you do so. Click here to read more!