A Day for Rememberin': Inspired by the True Events of the First Memorial Day
What’s inside...
Leah Henderson’s picture book A Day for Rememberin’ is a tribute to the history behind the first Memorial Day, illustrated by Floyd Cooper. The story, inspired by true events, is told through the eyes of a young boy named Eli. On May 1, 1865, Eli and his family join a diverse crowd in Charleston, South Carolina to honor those who died fighting for freedom during the Civil War. The book features poignant prose, powerful illustrations, and includes archival photos, an author’s note, bibliography, timeline, and index.
Age
6-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Eli
Papa
Discussion points
Why do you think it was important for the characters to remember and honor the soldiers?
How did the actions of the characters in the story make you feel?
What does Memorial Day mean to you, and how can we honor those who have served our country?
How do you think the community felt coming together for the first Memorial Day?
What are some ways we can show gratitude towards people who help us in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own feelings about Memorial Day and why it is important. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story and its characters. Relate the story to current events or personal family history to make the themes more relatable. Ask your child to think of ways they can honor and remember the contribution of others in their community, fostering a sense of gratitude and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of remembrance and honoring history
Explanation: The book teaches children about the origins of Memorial Day, showing how former slaves and soldiers came together to honor Union soldiers who died during the Civil War.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of paying respect to past events and individuals who have made sacrifices, fostering a sense of gratitude and reverence in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Value of community and solidarity
Explanation: As the story unfolds, it showcases a community coming together to pay homage to fallen soldiers, highlighting collective effort and unity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to contribute positively to their own communities, whether through participation in community events or supporting a common cause.
Example Lesson: The power of collective healing
Explanation: The book illustrates how a community heals from past wounds by coming together, sharing stories, and showing mutual respect.
Real-World Application: Children can learn how to cope with personal or collective grief by engaging in communal activities, sharing their feelings, and supporting each other during tough times.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity and different backgrounds
Explanation: The book portrays cooperation among people from diverse backgrounds and the rich history of African American contributions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to respect and celebrate diversity in their schools and neighborhoods, understanding everyone’s unique contributions.
Example Lesson: History's impact on the present
Explanation: Through its historical backdrop, the book connects past events to modern traditions, helping children see the link between history and current practices.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate the origin of the customs they observe today, and encourages curiosity about how historical events shape the modern world.