Memorial Day

by Helen Frost

Overview

Explains how and why Memorial Day came to be celebrated as a national holiday in the United States.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780736887281
Publisher:	Capstone
Publication date:	09/01/1999
Series:	Capstone National Holidays Series
Pages:	24
Sales rank:	653,073
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 7.00(h) x 0.12(d)
Lexile:	580L (what's this?)
Age Range:	4 - 8 Years

Table of Contents

History of Memorial Day — Honoring people who died — Memorial Day traditions.

Editorial Reviews

PreS-Gr 1-Supporting national social-studies standards, these books offer brief discussions of the holidays' histories and how they are celebrated. Written in uninspiring, textbook style, each double-page spread teaches one concept, with a color or black-and-white photograph or reproduction on the left and two simple sentences in large print on the right. Some pictures are confusing or inappropriate. In the first book, a small photo of a horse-drawn wagon surrounded by men is paired with the words, "Some people did not agree with Martin. Someone killed him on April 4, 1968." Only observant readers will notice the coffin in the wagon and make the connection. In the second volume, members of three generations of a family sit smiling as they look at an album of baby pictures. The text reads, "Families gather on Memorial Day. They talk about family members who have died." Despite the controlled vocabulary, youngsters will still need adult guidance in understanding the intrinsic meaning of these commemorative days.-Pamela K. Bomboy, Chesterfield County Public Schools, VA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.

School Library Journal

As the opening note to parents and teachers states—the "National Holidays" series supports national social studies standards related to understanding events that celebrate the values and principles of American democracy. That said, this book successfully explains why and how we celebrate Memorial Day. Full-color illustrations depict a parade, flags flying at half-mast and visits made to cemeteries to honor those who fought and died for their country. The concluding pages contain a short glossary, a few books and Internet sites and a word list/index.

Children's Literature Comprehensive Database