(Grades: 1-2) Books to Commemorate Memorial Day

When American soldiers entered World War I, Moina Belle Michael, a schoolteacher from Georgia, knew she had to act. Some of the soldiers were her students and friends. Almost single-handedly, Moina worked to establish the red poppy as the symbol to honor and remember soldiers. And she devoted the rest of her life to making sure the symbol would last forever. Thanks to her hard work, that symbol remains strong today. Author Barbara Elizabeth Walsh and artist Layne Johnson worked with experts, primary documents, and Moina's great-nieces to better understand Moina's determination to honor the war veterans.A portion of the book's proceeds will support the National Military Family Association's Operation Purple®, which benefits children of the U.S. military.

NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author Suzanne Collins has created a deeply moving autobiographical picture book about a father who must go off to the war in Vietnam -- and the daughter who stays behind.When young Suzy's father leaves for Vietnam, she struggles to understand what this means for her and her family. What is the jungle like? Will her father be safe? When will he return? The months slip by, marked by the passing of the familiar holidays and the postcards that her father sends. With each one, he feels more and more distant, until Suzy isn't sure she'd even recognize her father anymore.This heartfelt and accessible picture book by Suzanne Collins, the NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of the Hunger Games series, is accompanied by James Proimos's sweet and funny illustrations. This picture book will speak to any child who has had to spend time away from a parent.

It's Memorial Day and Marco and Mama are going to see the parade. On their way, they pass Marco's grandfather's house. They usually stop to see Grandfather, but today Mama is in a rush because she has promised Marco a surprise. Marco can't imagine what the surprise might be. Could it be the marching band? The fire engines? The candy tossed to the crowd by a woman dressed as the Statue of Liberty? Mama promises that it will be a better surprise than candy. As the parade goes by, Marco wishes his grandfather were with him to enjoy it. Then, marching down the street, come the veterans, wearing uniforms and shiny medals. But look! Who is that leading them? Marco never imagined the kind of surprise in store for him.

An engaging picture book for children that celebrates what it means to be American!What does it mean to be American? Does it mean you like apple pie or fireworks? Not exactly.This patriotic picture book is perfect for Memorial Day, Independence Day, Election Day, or any day you want to share with your child what it means to be an American. After all, Fourth of July isn't the only time to celebrate what makes America special!While politics seem to divide our country into the two opposing teams of red and blue, one truth remains: we are all Americans. But what does that mean?Gold Moonbeam Award Winner!IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award Finalist!Foreword Reviews INDIES Finalist!This continuation of the popular, award-winning What Does It Mean to Be...? series provides a nonpartisan point of view perfect for any and all Americans who are proud of who they are―and where they come from, regardless of their political views.Other Titles in the What Does It Mean to Be...? Series:What Does It Mean to Be Present?What Does It Mean to Be Global?What Does It Mean to Be Kind?

Discover the history and traditions of Memorial Day with your children.Children ages 6 to 10 will love this easy-to-read children’s book and the colorful pictures.Discover…* What is the meaning of Memorial Day?* How did Memorial Day get started?* Why do we celebrate Memorial Day?* What do people do for Memorial Day?* What song do people play on Memorial Day?….and Much More!So get ready to have the best Memorial Day as you and your kid discover the history and tradition of this special day.