The Making of a Hero - by Rita Lorraine Hubbard (Paperback)

About the Book

Explore the stories of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism that earned these remarkable individuals the Medal of Honor.

Join Mrs. Johnson and her class on an exciting "hero hunt" through the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, where they encounter the inspiring stories of Medal of Honor Recipients spanning from the Civil War to modern conflicts. This captivating journey introduces young readers to the values that define a hero: citizenship, patriotism, courage, integrity, sacrifice, and commitment.

This engaging book will spark discussions about heroism, inspire readers to find the hero within themselves and celebrate the enduring legacy of America's bravest. Perfect for classrooms, families, and anyone who wants to learn more about the Medal of Honor and the incredible individuals who earned it.

Book Synopsis

Join Mrs. Johnson and her class on an exciting "hero hunt" through the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, where they encounter the inspiring stories of Medal of Honor Recipients spanning from the Civil War to modern conflicts. This captivating journey introduces young readers to the values that define a hero: citizenship, patriotism, courage, integrity, sacrifice, and commitment.

This book brings to life the stories of ordinary people who faced extraordinary circumstances. Learn how these individuals demonstrated unwavering bravery and selfless dedication in the face of danger, inspiring generations with their remarkable acts of heroism.

Inside this book, you'll discover:

• Engaging stories: Explore the lives and heroic actions of Medal of Honor Recipients, including Jacob Parrott, Theodore Roosevelt, Joseph Adkison, Paul Huff, Ralph Puckett, Jr., and Larry Taylor.
• Vivid illustrations: Immerse yourself in the captivating artwork that brings these inspiring stories to life.
• Educational content: Learn about the history of the Medal of Honor and the values it represents.
• Discussion prompts: Spark conversations about heroism, courage, and the importance of service.
• Local connections: Connect with heroes from your community and discover their remarkable legacies.

This book is perfect for:

• Classroom learning: A valuable resource for teachers looking to engage students in discussions about history, character, and citizenship.
• Family reading: Enjoy these inspiring stories together and explore the meaning of heroism.
• Homeschool curriculum: Supplement history lessons with real-life examples of courage and sacrifice.
• Gift-giving: A meaningful present for children, educators, and anyone who appreciates stories of bravery.

What qualities do you think make a hero? This engaging book will spark discussions about heroism, inspire readers to find the hero within themselves and celebrate the enduring legacy of America's bravest. Perfect for classrooms, families, and anyone who wants to learn more about the Medal of Honor and the incredible individuals who earned it.

Review Quotes

A Tribute to Courage and Sacrifice

Rita Lorraine Hubbard's The Making of a Hero: Six MORE Stories of the Medal of Honor is a poignant and inspiring collection that delves into the lives of unsung heroes who have been awarded the United States' highest military honor. Hubbard, a former teacher turned acclaimed author, brings her signature empathy and meticulous research to these narratives, ensuring each story resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. This volume serves as both a historical record and a powerful reminder of the extraordinary bravery embedded in ordinary individuals.

Key Strengths:

• Compelling Storytelling: Hubbard's prose is accessible yet profound, weaving personal backgrounds, harrowing combat scenarios, and the aftermath of heroism into cohesive, gripping tales.
• Diverse Perspectives: The six stories span different conflicts and backgrounds, offering a multifaceted look at valor - from battlefield sacrifices to quiet, steadfast leadership.
• Educational Value: Ideal for classrooms or casual readers, the book humanizes history while honoring military service, aligning with Hubbard's passion for mentorship and education.
• Emotional Resonance: Each account balances triumph and tragedy, leaving readers with a deepened appreciation for the Medal of Honor's significance.

Ideal Audience:

• History enthusiasts, veterans, and military families.
• Educators seeking relatable historical narratives.
• Readers drawn to biographies of resilience and sacrifice.

The Making of a Hero succeeds in its mission: to honor, educate, and move. Hubbard's dedication to these stories shines through, making this volume a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the human spirit's capacity for courage. While niche in focus, its emotional and historical weight earns it a place on shelves alongside classic wartime narratives.

Sarah Jensen
Book Reviewer

About the Author

Rita Lorraine Hubbard is a former teacher of over 20 years who now writes historical children's books about people who overcome odds with heart and courage. She is the author of The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read, which won the 2022 Texas Bluebonnet award; Hammering for Freedom, which won the 2012 Lee and Low New Voices award; and African Americans of Chattanooga: A History of Unsung Heroes, which won the 2014 East Tennessee Preservation Award. Rita recently received the 2024 Ruth Holmberg Arts Leadership Award and is a long-standing member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

Commercial artist Mat Edwards draws inspiration from the things he sees in daily life. Immersed in his art with his brain "always ticking over," in his words, or "away with the fairies," according to his wife, he can create everything from the thoroughly modern to would-have-sworn-it-was-vintage style designs, with the power of precision and repetition as key to the appeal of his works.