Synopses & Reviews
"The poignant journey of a boy and his father to locate the boy's grandfather's name on the Vietnam War Memorial. Totally within a young child's intellectual and emotional ken, this is a powerful yet gentle tribute to those who have lost their lives in war, and to their families."—School Library Journal, Best Books of the Year
Review
"A sensitive and moving picture book, and a great discussion book as well." School Library Journal, Starred
Synopsis
This is the wall, my grandfather's wall. On it are the names of those killed in a war, long ago.
"A father and his young son have come to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to find the name of the grandfather the little boy never knew. They share the sadness as well as the pride of having Grandpa's name there. This moving account is beautifully told from a young child's point of view." (The Horn Book, starred review).
"Himler's intense, quiet watercolors capture the dignity of the setting as Bunting's story reaches to the heart of deep emotions. A quiet, respectful exploration." (Booklist)
"Captures the meaning of the memorial to the American people, especially to those who have lost loved ones. A sensitive and moving picture book." (School Library Journal, starred review)
One of this book's many 5-star reviewers commented: "As a teacher, this is the perfect book to read to help kids understand more about Memorial Day."
Another reviewer, a Vietnam veteran, said: "Bought this to give to my great-grandson on Memorial Day. The book gave us an excellent story and illustrations that helped keep his interest and it started a great discussion that has lasted for weeks after the reading."
Synopsis
A young boy and his father visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
About the Author
Ronald Himler is the illustrator of several successful picure books for Clarion, including TRAIN TO SOMEWHERE, FLY AWAY HOME, and THE WALL. Mr. Himler studied at the Cleveland Institute of Art, the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and New York University. He lives in Tucson, Arizona.Storytelling and the magic of words have always been important to Eve Bunting. She grew up in Northern Ireland, where storytelling is a tradition, and came to America as a young mother. Eve writes every day and her ideas come from what excites and interests her. She has the unique ability to address contemporary social issues, from homelessness to illiteracy, in a sensitive manner, and at the same time to explore the dynamics of family relationships. Eve Bunting is the author of more than 200 beloved books for young people, from preschoolers to teenagers. Among her many popular picture books for Clarion are THE WALL, FLY AWAY HOME, and TRAIN TO SOMEWHERE. Ms. Bunting lives in Pasadena, California.