Independence Day has to be the best day for not only celebrating the birth our great country, but also for remembering, appreciating and honoring all those who have served our country by protecting the freedoms we enjoy. Here are two books that I especially enjoyed because the real life stories demonstrate bravery in the military and spiritual greatness during combat.
Supersonic Saints 2: More Thrilling Stories From LDS Pilots, compiled by John Bytheway, is filled with inspirational stories about pilots serving in the military. Time and time again, these pilots faced extreme odds and many of them shouldn’t have returned to their base. But, every time during peril, when they called upon the Lord and remained calm as they executed a flight pattern, they escaped and landed safely. Each of these pilots (told in their own words) reiterate that they survived the near-tragic experience with the help of the Lord. One of the stories, “Sir, I’m on Fire”, by Colonel Gordon H. Weed, is one of these amazing stories.
He was flying in formation during the Vietnam War when another plane was hit. First Lieutenant, Bill Harrell, called to Col. Weed on the radio and told him he was on fire. They were still flying over enemy territory and Col. Weed’s first impression was to follow the regulation procedures and allow him to escape the burning fire that was coming out of the nose section of the plane. But he heard a distinctive voice inside of him saying, “Don’t let him bail out.” So he helped his First Lieutenant get though what appeared to be the possibility that Harrell may not survive. By helping him remain calm and trying different procedures, the fire went out and Harrell landed safely back on the landing strip. Colonel Weed knows, without a doubt, that had Harrell ejected, the flame that surrounded his canopy would have most likely not allowed him to release his seat which would have been a deadly situation.
Faith in the Service: Inspirational Stories from LDS Servicemen and Servicewomen,compiled and illustrated by Chad S. Hawkins, includes stories where the military brought toys and food to the children in war torn Iraq and Afghanistan (some of these military personnel asked for families at home to send care packages to help). Other stories include how the Spirit whispered to some serving abroad and helped prevent a catastrophe. The book really gives a true perception of life living in a war-torn area and how these dedicated Saints continue to serve Him by holding Sunday meetings and keeping Him in their hearts and minds all day long.
The next few books are picture books good for ages eight through adult. America: The Making of a Nation,by Charlie Samuels, is an over-sized picture book full of interactive information that’s kid friendly to read. There are lift-the-flap postcards, a fold-out duplicate of the Declaration of Independence and even a demonstration of how Betsy Ross made a five-pointed star for the first flag. Kids, ages 8 through adult, will learn much about our great country and enjoy the process.
The next two books are an easy read and will surely help ages seven to ten understand the conflict with the British and our desire to obtain “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” In 1776,by Jean Marzollo, and illustrated by Steve Bjorkmank, the rhyming text will enlighten and the pictures are sure to engage in this easy read. Time for Kids Biographies has a book about a woman who influenced the direction America took in its very beginning. Abigail Adams: Eyewitness to America’s Birth relates how influential this woman was with her husband, John Adams, as he helped our country during the Revolutionary War. Her influence on her son was strong as well as he became the 6th president of the United States.
This next book takes on the huge task that America faced after winning the Revolutionary War. We the People: The Story of Our Constitution,by Lynne Cheney, and painted beautifully by Greg Harlin, is the quintessential example of all the problems America had to take care of if they were to remain free. Gathering the delegates from near and far and framing the Constitution seems remarkable and amazing even after all these years. Youngsters will be just as amazed and full of appreciation after reading this! This book is good for all ages.
Ellis Island: Coming to the Land of Liberty,by Raymond Bial, tells the story of this most important stop for immigrants coming to America. This historic location now includes an impressive visitor’s center and this book will highlight the first glimpse of America seen by the millions who landed at Ellis Island. This book is geared for ages 11 through adult.
The next two books teach about the states and are good for ages six through twelve. Greetings From the 50 States: How They Got Their Names, by Sheila Keenan, and illustrated by Selina Alko, may just surprise you as to how many of our states ended up with their names. This is a fascinating read and delightfully illustrated. (It would be a great book to take in the car.) The Scrambled States of America: Talent show,by Laurie Keller, is hilarious and is a terrific way for kids to learn and identify with all of the states. It’s a crazy slant on the state with a rhyming pattern throughout.
