Rolling Thunder by Kate Messner Illustrated by Greg Roth

Lines of bikes are miles long,

Shining, half a million strong. 

Rumbling, grumbling, engines roar. 

Peace signs. High fives. Spirits soar. 

Every Memorial Day in Washington, DC, more than a million veterans and their supporters gather for the Rolling Thunder® Ride for Freedom, a demonstration that pays tribute to the men and women of the US armed forces. This lyrical story honors the bravery and sacrifice of those American heroes — the ones who have returned home, and the ones who haven't.

Kate Messner is the author of The Seventh Wish; All the Answers; The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z., winner of the E. B. White Read Aloud Award for Older Readers; Capture the Flag, an SCBWI Crystal Kite Award winner; Hide and Seek; Manhunt; and the Ranger in Time and Marty McGuire chapter book series. A former middle-school English teacher, Kate lives on Lake Champlain with her family and loves reading, walking in the woods, and traveling. Visit her online at katemessner.com.

 

Greg Ruth has written and drawn stories for Dark Horse Comics, DC/Vertigo Comics, Fantagraphics, and the New York Times. He is also the illustrator of Our Enduring Spirit, a picture book edition of President Barack Obama's first inaugural address, and the creator of the graphic novel The Lost Boy. Greg lives and works in western Massachusetts. Visit his website at gregthings.com.

The 411:

A wonderfully illustrated book set to a rhyming story that pays tributes to our Vets.  We follow a boy and his grandfather as they meet up with other Vets. They share a meal, memories and then get some sleep before heading out to Washington DC for the Rolling Thunder Ride For Freedom a demonstration that honors American's veterans.

I find it amazing how this short book written for 4-8 years old's with muted pictures and colors is able to elicit such emotion. This is perfect for home or school to be read anytime but especially on Memorial Day. A wonderful way to pay tribute and support those who have fought for our country.

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Disclaimer: I received a discounted product for my honest opinion.  My reviews are 100% honest and true based on my personal opinion not on a company’s description or request. No monetary compensation was received