Pearl Harbor
Eyewitness to World War II Series
What’s inside...
President Franklin D. Roosevelt referred to December 7, 1941, as 'a date which will live in infamy' due to the unexpected attack by hundreds of Japanese fighter planes on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii that morning. Over 2,000 Americans lost their lives, and the battleships of the Pacific Fleet were left in ruins. This brutal assault propelled the United States into a global conflict.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it was like for the people at Pearl Harbor during the attack?
Why is it important to remember events like Pearl Harbor?
How do you think the event changed the lives of those who were there?
What did you learn about bravery and leadership from the people in the book?
How can we honor the memory of those who faced challenging times like these?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing a brief overview of the historical significance of Pearl Harbor. Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the scenarios presented in the book to foster empathy and deeper understanding. Highlight the individual stories of bravery and leadership to inspire discussion about personal values. Relate the historical events to current events when appropriate to make the conversation relevant. End with a reflective question about what they can learn from history to apply in their own lives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding historical events
Explanation: The book provides a detailed account of the Pearl Harbor attack, offering insights into World War II history.
Real-World Application: Helps children grasp the significance of historical events and fosters an interest in learning more about the past to understand the present.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Through the depiction of personal stories and experiences during the Pearl Harbor attack, readers can empathize with the characters' hardships.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to understand and share the feelings of others, promoting kindness and compassion in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The consequences of conflict
Explanation: The book highlights the dire impacts and aftermath of the Pearl Harbor attack, underscoring the destructive nature of wars.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and the benefits of diplomacy over aggression.
Example Lesson: Bravery and heroism
Explanation: Individuals in the story exhibit acts of bravery during challenging times, showcasing courage in the face of danger.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to act bravely and stand up for what is right, even in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and inquiry
Explanation: The book prompts readers to ask questions and think critically about the factors leading up to the Pearl Harbor attack and its consequences.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to question and analyze information, helping them to develop critical thinking skills applicable in all areas of life.