by WB Intern Deborah Darden
Patriot. There’s no doubt it’s a powerful word. It’s defined as someone who loves and supports his or her own country.
The aftermath of September 11th is one that will always be felt around the country. In your mind, you could be inquiring how book-reading could possibly be related to this day. There’s seemingly no relevance, right? Well, patriotism is a sentiment that is shared in all parts of the world, so we wanted to share some books where that sentiment is explored and expressed.
From historical accounts to touching letters and even an illustrated piece, we hope you find something that interests you in this list.
What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism by Dan Rather & Elliot Kirschner – This first choice takes on an almost somber tone regarding patriotism. It’s a collection of essays intended to spark intentional conversation on what it means to be American.
The Spymaster of Baghdad: A True Story of Bravery, Family, and Patriotism in the Battle against ISIS by Margaret Coker – If patriotism sprinkled with the spirit of the underdog catches your attention, then you may be in for an intense ride with this selection. This story is an account of two brothers and their roles in the table-turning operation carried out by the intelligence unit known as “the Falcons”.
1812: War and the Passions of Patriotism by Nicole Eustace – One thing is for sure, we all have at least heard of the War of 1812 at some point in our school years. In this historical review, the author dives deeper into the major events and how they, in a way, shaped the identity of a young nation.
Warrior Spirit: The Story of Native American Heroism and Patriotism by Herman J. Viola & Foreword by Debra Kay Mooney – Now this is one we have to admit that we’ve become particularly fond of! This is a work that brings to light the many contributions the warrior Indigenous Americans made in significant battles throughout history, defending their families and their homeland.
Proud as a Peacock, Brave as a Lion by Jane Barclay, Illustrated by Renné Benoit – Are you wondering if there are stories of patriotism written for children? Well, here’s one option! This illustrated piece centers around a grandfather incorporating animal references to share his wartime experience with his grandson.
My Family, My Country a Memoir of Patriotism and Faith by Peggy Suzanne Cogar – As you probably gathered from the title, this collection is a full-on family affair! The author shares special letters sent from various members of her family during times of war.
For God and Country: Faith and Patriotism Under Fire by James Yee – In this account, Chaplain Yee shares his experience of hardship and faith after he became victim to the crippling anxiety that was left by the events of 9/11.
Jefferson’s Pillow: The Founding Fathers and the Dilemma of Black Patriotism by Roger W. Wilkins – This is another one you all might want to add to your personal library! A prominent figure in the civil rights movement, Roger dives deeper into the lesser shared aspects of the building of this nation.
Arab Patriotism: The Ideology and Culture of Power in Late Ottoman Egypt by Adam Mestyan – For this historical study, the author delves into profound notions from the Ottoman Empire that essentially contributed to the modern Arab nation.
The Faithful River by Stefan Żeromski, Translation by Bill Johnston – Would you care for a splash of romance mixed in a tale of patriotism? Journey to Poland during the January Uprising in this story about a wounded soldier and the ward, Salomea, who shielded him from the Russians.
What do you think? Was there one that caught your eye? Maybe two? Share some of your top choices with us on social media!