Honoring Veterans

I was inspired to write this book because I didn't know much about Veterans Day other than it honors veterans and Veterans' Day parades happen. My son is a veteran serving with the Marines in the reserves. I see how hard he works as a Gunnery Sergeant, helping his Marines grow to be their best, while he also takes care of his family and works full-time in a civilian job. I see the sacrifice his whole family makes so he can serve our country.

As I researched Veterans Day books, I noticed that many of them looked very similar—often relying on stock photos of parades and presenting the holiday strictly in a nonfiction style. Honoring Veterans: Serving Those Who Serve feels different because it’s a realistic fiction story. By blending historical facts with meaningful, hands-on experiences of Sam and Miguel, I show children that they can play an active role in honoring veterans through simple acts of service and volunteering. One detail that makes this book especially distinctive is the illustration of the Signing of the Armistice. While the same historical photo appears in many Veterans Day resources, I chose to have my illustrator create an original reproduction. This gives young readers the chance to experience history through art rather than a stock image, making the moment feel both powerful and fresh. In addition, I included a short glimpse into the Marine Corps’ founding and birthday celebration, which ties beautifully into the story as Miguel’s father serves in the Marines. Altogether, the book weaves history, patriotism, and personal action into a story that inspires children and families to both understand Veterans Day and take part in honoring those who serve.

This realistic fiction is for children ages 4-8, their families, and teachers. I hope it will inspire all Americans to give honor to our military members: to show respect for the sacrifices and even to assist them. Many veterans have PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) from things they've experienced or witnessed while serving in the military. They deserve our help.

I loved the illustrations Olha did for The Worn-Out Flag, and had so many compliments from that book that I wanted to use her again. Additionally, since this is a sequel, I wanted the illustrations to be consistent.