Since Flag Day came on a regular post day this year, it was hard for me to ignore!

I love books that illustrate songs and this one is no exception. You're a Grand Old Flag with the song by George M. Cohan and illustrations by Warren Kimble. Mr. Kimble likes to paint on old wood, so all the paintings used here have a 'folksy' texture (which fits with his style, too). Look for some wonderful, subtle humor between some of the pictures and words.

There are some fun facts in The Flag, the Poet & the Song: the Story of the Star-Spangled Banner, by Irvin Molotsky, such as why the song, sung at the start of every game, is especially popular with the Baltimore Orioles, and the Atlanta Braves, or that the huge flag that flew over Fort McHenry was made from cotton from the U.S., but wool from England! There is a chapter on who has sung it (good or bad) and, of course, a discussion on why this is the best choice for our national anthem. See if you agree. A bit dry in some places (you know, the ones about politics), but overall, pretty darn good. :-)

Below the national flag on the flag pole you'll often find a state flag. For the history and design behind these, try Flags of the Fifty States: Their Colorful Histories and Significance (2nd edition), by Randy Howe. Some have been changed several times, others have had just one design. Don't skip the mottos, some are a hoot!

Reading Hermit With Dog