WWII/Japan

I am working on a special list of books that will become required reading for twin boys coming into fifth grade next year. These two boys need a challenge above and beyond what is expected of the rest of my students. I'm trying to create this list of quality literature -- and also make it connect with what we are learning in American History and in Science.

I'm going to be requiring them to read books about many historical figures and events. I am at the point where I am adding topics from WWII. This is one of the most fascinating points in American History in my opinion. I enjoy learning about Pearl Harbor, Albert Einstein, the atomic bomb, Japan, etc. I am deeply saddened about the loss of life that occured on August 6, 1945, when the Enola Gay dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima. As horrific as that was, Japan did not surrender. Three days later, August 9, 1945, the second bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, and Japan then chose to surrender. When I study this part of history with my students - I really try to get them to connect with the devistation this bomb delivered. I think about the innocent young children who lost their lives . . . those bombs and the destruction are still hard for me to fully comprehend even today.

I love this clipart picture. I read in a picture book about the tradition in Japan where they light latterns and set them afloat on the water each year during this time of rememberance. I would love to visit Japan and these two cities someday to learn more about this historical moment. I know visiting these cities would be very emotional as I would become consumed with the moment. I hope to see Japan someday . . . and pay my respects . . .