Veterans Day is fast approaching, and you might be looking for ways to teach your students more about this important holiday. Read-alouds offer a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with and learn more about Veterans Day.
In today’s post, I’m sharing six books that make excellent read-alouds for elementary students on Veterans Day.
P.S. These are not affiliate links, I will not make money if you shop from these links. 😊
Hero Mom by Melinda Hardin
This book is perfect for primary-aged students learning about veterans and Veterans Day. It begins with a group of children explaining that their moms are superheroes. They clarify that their mothers aren’t the cape-wearing kind of superheroes but are heroes because of what they do in their military roles. Each child briefly describes their mother’s duties, and the book ends with the kids reaffirming that their moms are their heroes. I love how this book provides just the right amount of information about the military without being too heavy for young readers.
America’s White Table by Margot Theis Raven
You might want to read this one on your own before sharing it with your class—it’s an emotional story that brought tears to my eyes as I reflected on the sacrifices made by so many men and women to keep our country free. The book explains the tradition of setting a little white table on Veterans Day to honor those missing in action and prisoners of war. The author describes the meaning behind each object placed on the table and shares the story of an uncle who was a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War. It’s a beautifully written story that introduces students to a tradition they may not be familiar with.
Rolling Thunder by Kate Messner
I debated including this book because it tells the story of the Rolling Thunder® Ride for Freedom, held each year on Memorial Day weekend. However, the boy in the story also discusses people who are still serving. This book can help start a discussion on the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day—Memorial Day honors those who died in service, while Veterans Day honors all who have served. For an additional resource, this video Rolling Thunder Highlights showcases the parade. Though it mentions that the parade’s final ride took place, it has since returned.
Tuesday Tucks Me In: The Loyal Bond Between a Soldier and His Service Dog by Luis Carlos Montalván
Told from the point of view of a service dog, this book covers some heavy topics but also includes lighthearted humor, like how Tuesday follows the soldier everywhere—even to the bathroom! The simple writing makes it suitable for younger students, but the deeper topics also make it a good choice for upper elementary students. One thing to note: there’s a prayer at the end, so you may want to consider your district’s policies before reading this book with your class.
Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot by Margot Theis Raven
Based on the true events of the Berlin Airlift (1948-1949), this book provides historical context before diving into the story, helping students understand what was happening in the world at the time. The book tells the heartwarming story of a pilot who delivered essential supplies to West Berlin during the airlift and also dropped candy from his plane for the children. While the story is longer, making it better suited for upper elementary students, it’s a touching read.
Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine, and a Miracle by Major Brian Dennis, Kirby Larson, and Mary Nethery
This story follows the incredible journey of a wild dog in Iraq who forms an unlikely bond with an American soldier. The soldier narrates the challenges he and Nubs face as they try to stay together, especially after Nubs travels more than 70 miles to find him. I think this book would capture the attention of K-5 students, particularly those who love animals or have pets.
Do you have a favorite book to share with your class on Veterans Day? Let me know in the comments!
