Reference Sunday: Happy Memorial Day!

Tomorrow is actually Memorial Day ....May 30th was also the original day we celebrated until it was moved to the last Monday in May.   I also never knew that Memorial Day was once called Decoration Day and has been celebrated since the Civil War.   I like the idea of "Decoration Day"  ----I think it is wonderful that so many people go out and put flags on the graves of all who have served in our military.  

Last year I recommended two books that show children the importance of this special holiday.   It is not just a day to play.   Here is my post from Memorial Day 2010 as a reminder.   Today I am suggesting 2 more books that would also be a great way to explain this holiday to children.

Stars and Stripes Celebrate Memorial Day by Madeline Collins is a book for younger children that explains the holiday in a simplified way, delving into it's history and traditions.   I love the fact that the author wrote this as a Girls Scout project and that the proceeds are donated to the Bob Woodruff Foundation which helps  wounded soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

America's White Table by Margot Theis  Raven and illustrated by Mike Benny is a beautifully illustrated story that deals with honoring those who have served and died for their country.   A moving picture book that really cuts to the heart of what Memorial Day is all about.

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Let's not forget what this holiday is all about....please join me tomorrow and take a moment to remember the men and women who gave their lives fighting for our country...let them never be forgotten.

Reference Sunday: Memorial Day!

Today is actually Memorial Day even though it is celebrated tomorrow.   There are lots of parades and barbecues planned for a day that is set aside to remind us of the men and women who gave their lives to make sure we can live in peace.   To that end I would like to recommend some books that are a great way to explain to children that we don't celebrate this day lightly or for a day off but that it has real meaning and purpose.

The Wall by Eve Bunting and illustrated by Ronald Himler is a beautiful book about a father taking his son to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC.   I have never seen this memorial in person but have been told by many that it is awe inspiring experience to visit.   This is for ages 4-8 but I think all ages can something from this beautifully written story.

Memorial Day by Jacqueline S. Cotton is part of the Rookie Reader Series from Children's Press and it is a great introduction to this special day.  It has lots of photographs that show what this day is all about.

Here is to all the men and women who gave their lives so we have the right to live as we wish.  Happy Memorial Day!