Two Important Books to Read on 9/11

This is a repost… because it is important.  These are two books everyone should read.  One is the true story of an old, retired fireboat that literally saved the day for firefighters on 9/11.  The other is a book about America and the flag… and so much more.

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

Unknown's avatar

About Jennie

I have been teaching preschool for over forty years. This is my passion. I believe that children have a voice, and that is the catalyst to enhance or even change the learning experience. Emergent curriculum opens young minds. It's the little things that happen in the classroom that are most important and exciting. That's what I write about. I was a live guest on the Kelly Clarkson Show. I am highlighted in the seventh edition of Jim Trelease's million-copy bestselling book, "The Read-Aloud Handbook" because of my reading to children. My class has designed quilts that hang as permanent displays at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia, the Fisher House at the Boston VA Hospital, and the Massachusetts State House in Boston.
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36 Responses to Two Important Books to Read on 9/11

  1. I have the second. Art is outstanding

  2. petespringer's avatar petespringerauthor says:

    America is an imperfect place, but one of the things that you can say about most Americans is that in times of crisis, we look out for each other. I’m familiar with Fire Boat, but I have not read Blue Sky White Stars.

  3. Darlene's avatar Darlene says:

    Book are a great way to keep the memory of those who lost their lives on that terrible day, alive. These are both amazing books.

  4. Thanks for the reminder, Jenny! I also fully agree to Darlene’s comment. Best wishes, Michael

  5. beth's avatar beth says:

    I’ve never read the fireboat but it seems so important, so many stories of unknown heroes. we read blue skies to our class and is a brilliant book. ❤

    • Jennie's avatar Jennie says:

      I am so glad you read the book to your class. Absolutely one of the best. Please promise me you will check-out Fireboat the next time you’re at the library. The fact that it’s a true story is incredible. Such a good book! Best to you, Beth.

  6. Dan Antion's avatar Dan Antion says:

    These are both great books, Jennie! 9/11 is one of those days we need to keep finding way to remember. Along with the tragic events, we need to remember that we had the ability to all come together.

    • Jennie's avatar Jennie says:

      Coming together…that’s what we did (and do) with tragic events. And we need to remember, which is where books can help. Thanks so much, Dan. Never forget. 🇺🇸

  7. Books are surely keepers and so much we come to know through books. Thanks for the informative post Jennie.

  8. Great books, Jenny. Thanks for sharing again.

  9. These are both intriguing. Thanks, Jennie.

  10. What a cool lil book! A great way to tell that story!

    • Jennie's avatar Jennie says:

      They both tell a story, one about a retired fireboat on 9/11 (why isn’t this story mainstream news?) and the other a great down-to-earth story of America through the flag. If you get to the library, I really hope you check out these books. You’ll be moved. Thank you, Brian.

  11. cindy knoke's avatar cindy knoke says:

    Thank you for these suggestions Jennie. The twins will love them.

  12. Hi Jennie, I remember this post. Fire Boat is very interesting to me 💕🌈

  13. Oh, I remember this post! Thank you for posting it again.

  14. A beautiful post, Jennie, and worth sharing again. Thank you for helping remember the tragic and heroic day.

  15. Libby Sommer's avatar Libby Sommer says:

    Two important books, Jennie.

  16. I’ve read the first book but, not the second. I’ll have to look for it. These are great book recommendations, Jennie.

  17. Carla's avatar Carla says:

    I’ve read Fireboat, but the not the second one. The illustrations look amazing, Jennie.

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