On this day, 9/11, we must remember the tragedy. We must never forget the bravery of firefighters and police officers, and so many people who stopped their lives to do the right thing. There are stories to help us remember.
One of the best is the true story of the John J. Harvey, a retired fireboat that came to the rescue on 9/11 and became a hero.
I was fortunate to see this original painting.
Pictures speak a thousand words.
If you are a history buff, a lover of boats, or someone who wants to know a powerful, true 9/11 story, this is the book. Really.
9/11 is a day to feel proud of America. When tragedy strikes, we come together as people, communities, and a nation. One of the best books about America brings to life our history, past and present, through the American flag.
Sew together,
So together
Books and stories are the keepers. They hold the past, the present, and the future.
Jennie
A Teacher's Reflections 
yes<3
I know it’s obvious, but thanks for the reminder that your students didn’t live 9-11 … but they hear about it. I’m confident that your approach will stay with them until the day they do understand.
At school 9/11 is “Kindness, Peace, and Love Day.” We celebrate heroes, like firefighters. I will bring in the big American flag and wear red, white, and blue. Yes, they’re young, but this tragic event can be a stepping stone to kindness and patriotism. Thank you, Frank.
Beautiful, Jennie. As terrible as that day was, we have to take what good we can from it.
Fireboat is a perfect book to tell young people about the tragedy.
It is, Darlene. Thank you.
These are great books, Jennie. I will reread my copy of ‘Blue Sky White Stars’ today.
Thank you, Dan!
Jennie, thank you for sharing these books and memories. I love that are honoring this day with your precious kids in so many ways. 💙❤️🙏🏻🫶🏻
You are welcome, Karla. Many thanks. 🇺🇸
So happy you remember this day with your students. My flag is out.
Mine is, too! Thank you, Jacqui. 🇺🇸
The world changed that day.
It did.
This is our contemporary history. This is our story. Such things should be the focus of our collective society. And books are part of our freedom – part of the fabric of our society.
Refreshing to hear your voice in the distance reading to your classroom – let freedom ring – let kindness, peace and love reign!
Such a beautiful comment, Laura. Hear, hear.
Thanks, Jennie. Here (hear) are some hugs to get you through the ‘day after’.
Awww…🥰
I am, and have always been, of the opinion that a child is never to young to learn about history if it is presented in age appropriate material. I did so with my children and continued with my grandchild. May I be so bold as to recommend a more
recently published book that you may find to be a worthy addition for your classroom library. “This Very Tree : A Story of 9/11, Resilience, and Regrowth” by Sean Rubin which was published in 2021. It is considered age appropriate for 4-8 year old children and is still enjoyed by a now older Benjamin. Might I also, please, copy and repeat the divine “Jennyism” in the last two sentences of this post? I love this quote from the author and teacher, Mary Ellen Chase : “There is no substitute for books in the life of a child.”
Thank-YOU!
Yikes! I cannot explain why the word “more” stands alone as it did not appear so prior to hitting the post comment button.
No worries!
Ellen, I remember this book, but I don’t know why I don’t have it. Thanks you so much for the reminder, as this will be added to my collection of books. Benjamin’s vote seals the deal. 🙂Interestingly, fellow teachers always come to me for books, especially patriotic books. Our school has a big library, but Jennie is often the go-to. Lucky me! Of course you can copy and repeat the last two sentences. Yes, there is no substitute for books in the life of a child. I will always embrace every opportunity to teach history to children. When I read aloud “Little House on the Prairie”, I have many discussions, from the big (Indians) to the small (food). Thank you, Ellen!
Yes, Jennie, sad to say but even the little ones must know about what happened that terrible day.
Yes, they must. Thank goodness for good books.
Excellent choices, Jennie. 9/11 is a story that all children should know.
Thank you, John. Thank goodness for good children’s books that tell the story.
Yes indeed. 😁
Great that you tell the story, long may it be read.
Hear, hear!
Yes! The story must be told so it’s truth is never forgotten and its message always learned.
I echo your thoughts!
Hi Jennie, I don’t know this book. I am curious as to the involvement of the fire boat. A lovely post
If you Google the John J. Harvey fireboat 9/11 you can read how it went into retirement, and then how it was pulled back into service that fateful day. Thanks so much, Robbie.
Thanks, Jennie. I’ll look for it.
You are welcome, Robbie. It’s a great story!
Good books. Thanks for sharing the information, Jennie! Yes, we also have to teach our young people what had happend that day, and changed the world forever. xx Michael
Well said, Michael. Yes, we do. Many thanks!
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