As November begins, we look forward to Veterans Day on November 11, a time to help students understand the importance of honoring those who have served in the military. For families, this holiday is also a meaningful opportunity to learn about the role of veterans, the importance of service, and the history behind this special day.
In Second Grade, students are exploring the inspiring life of Senator Tammy Duckworth through the biography A Life of Service: The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworth, by Christina Soontornvat, with illustrations by Colorado’s own Dow Phumiruk. Senator Duckworth served as a helicopter pilot in the Army National Guard and, after being seriously injured when her helicopter was shot down and sustaining life-altering disabilities, she went on to dedicate herself to supporting other veterans. This book introduces students to her childhood, military service, and the remarkable ways she has continued to help others. It’s a truly inspiring story!
As students learn about heroes like Senator Tammy Duckworth, they begin to see how service and sacrifice shape not only the lives of veterans but also the families and communities who support them. By exploring stories of veterans and the diverse ways they serve, we deepen our understanding and appreciation for their impact and the resilience of those who stand beside them. Below is a selection of books available in CA’s libraries that highlight Veterans Day and the experiences of those who have served—as well as the loved ones who share in their journey. This is just a small part of what our collection offers for your family’s learning and reflection.
Books for Young Readers
Hero Mom by Melinda Hardin. A heartwarming story that introduces young children to the idea that heroes come in many forms, including parents in the military.
Tuesday Tucks Me In: The Loyal Bond between a Soldier and his Service Dog by Luis Carlos Montalván. Tuesday, the service dog, takes the reader through a typical day with Luis, a former soldier who struggles with PTSD and relies on Tuesday for support.
Veterans: Heroes in Our Neighborhood by Valerie Pfundstein. An engaging introduction to the idea that veterans are not just people from history books—they are our neighbors, friends, and family members.
The Poppy Lady: Moina Belle Michael and Her Tribute to Veterans by Barbara Walsh. This book shares the true story of Moina Michael, who started the tradition of wearing red poppies to honor veterans.
Books for Intermediate Readers
Allies by Alan Gratz. Told through multiple narrators, this novel follows young soldiers, medics, and resistance fighters as they come together on D-Day to fight for freedom during the Allied invasion of Normandy in World War II.
Cracker!: The Best Dog in Vietnam by Cynthia Kadohata. This historical fiction novel tells the gripping story of a brave dog named Cracker and her handler, Rick, as they forge an unbreakable bond while serving together on dangerous missions during the Vietnam War.
Brave Like Me by Barbara Kerley. Through photos and simple text, this book shows children what it’s like when a parent is deployed and the courage both families and service members must have.
America’s White Table by Margot Theis Raven. This moving story explains the significance of the “white table,” a symbol used to honor service members who are missing or held prisoner.
Books for Young Adult Readers
Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two by Joseph Bruchac. A historical fiction novel about the Navajo code talkers, whose language and bravery helped win the war for the Allies.
Unbroken: An Olympian’s Journey from Airman to Castaway to Captive by Lauren Hillenbrand. This biography shares the story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner-turned-World War II bombardier whose plane crashes, leaving him stranded at sea and later imprisoned in brutal Japanese POW camps.
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien. A modern classic, this book shares powerful short stories about soldiers during the Vietnam War, balancing the personal and universal experience of service.
Fly Girls: The Daring American Women Pilots Who Helped Win WWII by P. O’Connell Pearson. This inspiring nonfiction book highlights the women pilots of World War II and their crucial contributions, proving that bravery knows no gender.
We encourage families to borrow a book this month and spend time together talking about Veterans Day and what it means to honor the people who have served in the military. Through stories, we can build empathy, understanding, and gratitude—not only for those who wear the uniform but for the families who support them.
Thank you to all the veterans in our community for your service!