Walsh, Barbara E. The Poppy Lady.

Walsh, Barbara E.   The Poppy Lady.  Boyd's Mills/Calkins Creek   2012  unp  $16.95  978-1-59078-754-0      all ages      Nonfiction        E-BN

     

Moina Belle Michael, a school teacher from Georgia, was in Europe when war first broke out in 1914.  She soon took to the cause of supporting young soldiers who were ignorant of the horrors they were to face.  She moved to New York City with the Red Cross. It was here that she read the poem “We Shall Not sleep.” This poem inspired her to get some red poppies to use as a memorial symbol.  Moina continued to work to convince both national and international veterans’ organizations to adopt the red poppy in support and honor of veterans.  This is an inspiring book for readers and non-readers of all ages.

Layne Johnson’s painting style beautifully portrays the story’s emotions. The paintings are quite detailed, yet they still have a soft, reflective appearance that portrays the sense of the story.
           

Veterans, American Legion, Poppies                          --Linda McNeil