Common Sense Media Review
By Susan Faust
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
A solemn tribute to veterans, their service, and sacrifice.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In HONOR FLIGHT, an anonymous narrator tells about the call he gets from the Honor Flight Network, inviting him to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials and be honored for his service and sacrifice. The narrator is partnered with a "guardian" or chaperone who attends to his needs. Stops in D.C. include the Iwo Jima Memorial, Military Women's Memorial, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial where the narrator stops to weep for fallen comrades. On the flight home, he receives a commemorative coin and a packet of appreciative letters from family, friends, and even strangers in a modern-day "mail call," reminiscent of military days. Back on the ground and almost home, fanfare awaits with bands, flags, and cheers, "the homecoming many of us were denied all those years ago." With background information about veterans introducing the story and an afterword and notes, informative back matter completes the package.
Is It Any Good?
In this moving tribute, an anonymous Vietnam veteran describes the impact of a visit to Washington, D.C., sponsored by a program that honors aging veterans for their service and sacrifice. The themes of respect, recognition, and gratitude infuse Honor Flight. A companion to Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, this picture book provides a tour of major war memorials along with personal memories of wartime camaraderie and loss. Author Jeff Gottesfeld served as a chaperone for one veteran on an Honor Flight trip, thereby bringing his own personal connection to the book. Matt Tavares realistic art adds detail and solemnity. This book is not a glorification of war but rather an affecting acknowledgement of how military men and women have given of themselves and a noble attempt to ensure that they are not forgotten.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Honor Flight shows the sacrifices made by members of the military. Do you know people who have served in the military? If so, have you ever asked them about their experiences?
In this book, the narrator observes that some returned soldiers talk about their wartime experiences, and others do not. Why might some want to talk and others want to remain silent?
Soldiers can find themselves in dangerous situations that demand extraordinary courage. Sometimes you need courage in everyday life too. Have you ever had to show courage in a tough situation?
The narrator of this book expresses gratitude toward his fellow soldiers and the Honor Flight program. The Honor Flight program expresses gratitude for the service and sacrifice of veterans. What are you grateful for?
The narrator in this book never brags about his service or sacrifice. He shows humility. Do you know people who like to brag? Do you know people who do good but don't brag? What kind of persona re you, and why?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Matt Tavares
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Activism , History , Holidays
- Character Strengths : Courage , Gratitude , Integrity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Candlewick
- Publication date : March 3, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 7 - 10
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : March 25, 2026
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