Veterans Day Children's Books 2024

Because of You Old Glory Flies

Poems of Gratitude for Our U.S. Military and Veterans

Author: Julie Dueker, Copyright @ 2019

Because of You Old Glory Flies is a collection of heartfelt poems and illustrations to say thank you to all who have served, or currently serve in the United States military. In creating this book, Julie Dueker and Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II, a.k.a. The Freedom Rock Painter, have combined their unique talents and passions for God and country to show America's heroes we are forever in their debt. They pray this book touches the hearts and lives of those who open it and share it.

Granddad Bud

A Veterans Day Story

Author: Sharon Ferry, Copyright @ 2010

Ages 4-8 years

When a young boy's great-grandfather comes to his school to talk about Veterans Day, the boy is unsure what to expect. Why exactly do we celebrate Veterans Day - and will his classmates be interested in what Granddad Bud has to say?

Grandpa's 1 to 10 and Back Again

Author: Tony Hunter, Copyright @ 2017

An educational picture book which takes children on an exciting adventure while teaching them basic counting.

Grandpa retells the story of his thrilling exploits on D-Day while teaching Harvey how to count up to ten and back again.

Surrounded and under fire, can Grandpa carry a message through to headquarters to get help for his friends?

He Looks Like Me

A celebration of Lloyd Austin, our first African American Secretary of Defense

Author: Lawanda Warthen, Copyright @ 2021

Ages baby - 8 yrs

He Looks Like Me, written from the perspective of a little girl named Sonja, tells the story of the first African American Defense Secretary, Lloyd James Austin, III, a retired four-star general. Mr. Austin is a superb role model for both military and civilian Americans, and his life serves as an outstanding example for future generations. His story represents the melting pot of individuals from different races, backgrounds, and cultures who make up the US Army and protect our freedoms. This important book helps individuals who look like me understand that they are not alone and that, with hard work and a commitment to doing the right thing, they too are destined for greatness. He Looks Like Me introduces the world to a great soldier, a hero, and a man of peace who proved to be an exemplary leader. Mr. Austin is a humble servant leader who has remained focused on people while leading from the front. He treats others like he wants to be treated-with dignity and respect. This children's book was created for all children, but especially to show our brown and black children that they too can be destined for greatness.

Honor Flight (6-pack for library purchase)

Author: Samantha Gassman, Copyright @ 2022

Grades 1-2

Link to purchase

Includes:

6 Leveled Books

Teacher's Guide

Text Evidence Question Card

Content Card: Short Inquiry Project

Honor Flight: Honoring our Heroes (Wamego High School)

Author: Michele Ann Johnson, Copyright @ 2022

This children’s book is a collaboration between Wamego Public Library and the Wamego High School Honor Flight program. The story is wonderful and from a little sister’s point of view. You learn about this yearly heartwarming venture between veterans and students. The Honor Flight Network has a mission to take veterans to Washington, D.C. to see their respective memorials. Wamego High School proudly joined the Kansas Honor Flight Network in 2012. They search for veterans in our region who are interested in seeing our nation's memorials on a two-day trip to Washington, D.C. in late April. Wamego High School National Honor Society members serve as student guardians for our esteemed veterans during the trip. Generous donations from sponsors cover the cost for all participants on the trip. Part of the proceeds for the purchase of this book will support the Honor Flight program at Wamego High School.

Klinger: A Story of Honor and Hope

Author: Betsy Beard, Copyright @ 2010

This beautifully illustrated, full color, hardback children's book tells the story of a young horse dreaming of fame as a racehorse. But his life is disrupted when he must leave his parents and start a new life. Faced with difficulty and disappointment, Klinger’s dream of significance seems unattainable. He then discovers that fame is not necessary, as he finds fulfillment in honoring fallen heroes and bringing comfort to their families. Based on a real horse that serves in the Caisson Platoon in Arlington National Cemetery, this work of fiction was written for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors in honor of all of America's beloved fallen heroes.

Mr. Quigley's Keys

Author: Barbara Gruener, Copyright @ 2021

Adapted from and inspired by the real-life story of an unsung hero, Mr. Quigley's Keys invites you to walk in the work shoes of a beloved handyman as he quietly jingles through the hallways of his school, listening for ways to serve and connecting by heart. Bask in the admiration and pride that the students feel for their Navy veteran, whose war injury left him deaf, and watch as his every move models the school's keys to connection: love, perseverance, work ethic, empathy, goodness, and peace. Spend a birthday in the cafeteria and experience the joy of receiving a Quigley creation, then savor the sweetness as the can-doer classmates turn the tables to thank their faithful fix-it friend. Flip over the final page for a key twist that'll wrap you up in a huge hug of gratitude and love.

N is for Never Forget

Authors: Nancy Polette, Copyright @ 2017

Ages 8+, Grades 4+

A is for Artists painting the hardships of prison life. E is for Escape as determined prisoners make daring plans to gain their freedom. From Geneva Conventions to Internment, Operation Homecoming to Quartermaster Corps, Tap Code to Yellow Ribbon, N Is for Never Forget takes readers on a compelling journey through wartime history.

Poignant illustrations and stories capture key people, concepts, and memorials to help readers understand and honor the sacrifices endured by men and women prisoners of war and missing in action on behalf of freedom.

Engaging format interests readers of all levels. Single lines of text describe each letter’s key message, while longer true stories complement full-page color illustrations and bring POW-MIA concepts to life.

Topics to Discuss and Ways to Honor sections prompt critical thinking, conversations, and calls to action to develop compassionate leaders of the future.

Otto's Tales: Today is Veterans Day!

Author: PragerU, Copyright @ 2021

Join Otto and his best friend, Dennis, as they go on an adventure with Uncle Sam to learn about the different branches of the U.S. military. Otto and Dennis discover the meaningful sacrifices made by our military veterans and why they deserve respect, gratitude, and remembrance.

Otto’s Tales books are part of PragerU's educational initiative for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. These beautifully illustrated storybooks star young Dennis Prager and his sidekick—PragerU’s Otto the Bulldog mascot. Dennis and Otto go on exciting adventures and travel through time to learn important values through American holidays and traditions. This stylish series answers the needs of young families looking for fun, educational, pro-America content.

Proud as a Peacock, Brave as a Lion

Author: Jane Barclay, Copyright @ 2009

Ages 4-6

Much has been written about war and remembrance, but very little of it has been for young children. As questions come from a young grandchild, his grandpa talks about how, as a very young man, he was as proud as a peacock in uniform, busy as a beaver on his Atlantic crossing, and brave as a lion charging into battle. Soon, the old man’s room is filled with an imaginary menagerie as the child thinks about different aspects of wartime. But as he pins medals on his grandpa’s blazer and receives his own red poppy in return, the mood becomes more somber.

Outside, the crowd gathered for the veterans’ parade grows as quiet as a mouse, while men and women — old and young — march past in the rain. A trumpet plays and Grandpa lays a wreath in memory of his lost friend. Just then, the child imagines an elephant in the mist. “Elephants never forget,” he whispers to his grandpa. “Then let’s be elephants,” says the old man, as he wipes water from his eyes and takes his grandson’s hand.

The Poppy Lady

Moina Belle Michael and her tribute to veterans

Learn more about the story behind this book - VIDEO

Download a professional CCSS Annotated Discussion and Activity Guide

Author: Barbara Walsh, Copyright @ 2012

Ages 7 and up

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.

The Veterans Day Visitor (2nd Grade Friends)

Authors: Peter Catalanotto, Pamela Schembri, Copyright @ 2008

Ages 7-10

Emily’s Pop-Pop is shocked when he hears that Emily and Vincetta Louise don’t know what a veteran is. With Veterans Day coming up, he volunteers to talk to their class about the holiday and the people it honors. But Emily is worried. Pop-Pop sometimes falls asleep at the strangest times. What if he falls asleep in front of the whole class? Everyone would laugh!

Vinni and Emily come up with a plan. With so much to learn, they have to make sure that no one sleeps through this Veterans Day!

The Wall

Ages 4-8

This is the wall, my grandfather's wall. On it are the names of those killed in a war, long ago.

So begins the story of a little boy and his father. They've come from far away to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington and find the name of the boy's grandfather. Other visitors pass by, searching for the names of their loved ones. Finally, the father's fingers stop moving along the wall. "Here he is," he says. This restrained yet moving picture book deals with the lasting impact of the Vietnam War. It's a good story for Memorial Day, Veterans Day, or any other day when children and grown-ups are thinking about war and its consequences.

Tucky Jo and Little Heart

Author: Patricia Polacco, Copyright @ 2015

Friendship, loyalty, and kindness stand the test of time in this heartwarming World War II–era picture book based on a true story from the beloved author-illustrator of Pink and Say and The Keeping Quilt.

Tucky Jo was known as the “kid from Kentucky” when he enlisted in the army at age fifteen. Being the youngest recruit in the Pacific during World War II was tough. But he finds a friend in a little girl who helps him soothe his bug bites, and he gets to know her family and gives them some of his rations. Although the little girl doesn’t speak English, Tucky Jo and Little Heart share the language of kindness. Many years later, Tucky Jo and Little Heart meet again, and an act of kindness is returned when it’s needed the most in this touching picture book based on a true story.

Veterans Day (National Holidays (Abdo Kids))

Author: Meredith Dash, Copyright @ 2014

Ages 4-6

This title will familiarize readers with Veterans Day by explaining the "whos, whats, and whys" of it. Complete with a More Facts section and bolded glossary terms. Young readers will gather basic information about Veterans Day through easy-to-read text alongside compelling and historical photographs.

Veterans Day (Our Nation's Pride)

Author: Amanda Doering Tourville, Copyright @ 2008

Ages 6 and up

Our Nation's Pride explores the buildings, celebrations, holidays, symbols, and icons that shape our national identity.

Veterans Day (American Celebrations)

Valuing the sacrifices of veterans

Author: Arlene Worsley, Copyright @ 2010

Ages 8 and up

Veterans Day is a time to honor the soldiers who have fought for the United States in war. From the first celebration after World War I to celebrations across the country today, Veterans Day provides an in-depth and informative overview of the holiday.

Veterans

Heroes in our neighborhood

Author: Valerie Pfundstein, Copyright @ 2013

Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood is an engaging rhyming picture book for readers of all ages that fosters mindfulness of and appreciation for the brave service men and women who are also our family, friends, and neighbors. These are the men and women who bravely served our great country and now humbly serve in our communities.

Veterans

Our honored U.S. heroes

Author: Alex Duran, Copyright @ 2018

Veterans: Our Honored U.S. Heroes. Who are they? Veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Why did they serve? What did they do? What happens after they retire? This insightful, rhyming book celebrates the men and women (and dogs!) who served with honor in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. Their active duties are explored, along with the ways they help fellow veterans. Our Honored U.S. Veterans is the perfect tool for teaching kids about veterans . . . and will have them saying, “Thank you for your service.”

Veterans Day for Grandpa

Author: Dee Smith, Copyright @ 2015

Ages 5-6

A picture book for children celebrating Veteran's Day and the veterans that have served our country.

What Freedom Means to Me

A Flag Day story

Author: Heather French Henry, Copyright @ 2004

Claire and Robbie learn why we honor veterans on Veterans Day. Claire also learns responsibility after her neighbor rescues her puppy, Pepper.

What Is Veterans Day?

Author: Margot Parker, Copyright @ 1986

Ben explains to Amy why we celebrate Veterans Day each year.

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The following NEW book is not specifically about Veterans Day, but I love how it captures the true story of a military family coping with PTSD and how a military support organization came alongside to offer healing and hope.

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Hope on Four Hooves

A true story of a military family's journey through the struggles of PTSD

Author: Ana Elise, Copyright @ 2023

In this children's book illustrated with her own beautiful watercolor paintings, 15-year-old Ana pulls back the curtain to give a glimpse into the world behind the mask of pleasant appearances in her own military family. She vividly reveals the difficulties that accompany military life, compounded by her father's deep struggle with PTSD. Out of this darkness, she paints a picture of redemption and how an organization, Little Blessings Veteran Outreach, and their equine therapy program reached into her family to make it stronger and to salvage damaged family relationships. Ana created this book to offer hope to other military kids in similar family situations.

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Meaningful books kids should read on Veterans Day

24 recommended books to teach about Veterans Day

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If you check your local library, you will quickly learn that there are countless books about Veterans Day. Rather than creating an exhaustive list, Operation We Are Here has chosen to list a few favorites.