KidCrunch

Others may have their names in the record books, but Hank Aaron is the only “Home Run King” who is a hero in our house.  Hank Aaron hit 755 home runs and was a tremendous all-around ballplayer, but what makes him a role model is the strength, determination and class he has exhibited throughout his life.

I love the book Hank Aaron: Brave in Every Way, which was written by Peter Golenbock and wonderfully illustrated by Paul Lee.  I was the Mystery Reader today for my son’s second grade class and chose this book because in our suburban Atlanta town, kids are already playing baseball and they all love the Braves.  It is also relevant because Hank Aaron was born in February - which is Black History Month - and as today’s hitters are tainted by steroids, Hank Aaron’s achievements seem even more impressive.  The kids enjoyed the book and hopefully learned something about a truly heroic slugger.

Older kids will also appreciate ESPN’s biographical video SportsCentury Greatest Athletes: Hank Aaron.  The interviews and game footage in this video show Hank Aaron’s greatness as a ballplayer and strength as a person.

Find biographies of Hank Aaron and other heroes at the KidCrunch Store.

One of the best books I have purchased for my kids is 50 American Heroes Every Kid Should Meet by Dennis Denenberg and Lorraine Roscoe.

The profiled heroes include both historical and contemporary figures from diverse fields.  Notable men include Benjamin Franklin, Jonas Salk, John Glenn and Yo-Yo Ma.  The heroic women include Mary McLeod Bethune, Eleanor Roosevelt, Martha Graham and Sandra Day O’Connor.

For each hero, the book includes an easy-to-read two page profile with black and white photographs and illustrations.

This is a great book to keep in the backseat of the car for kids to flip through - and be inspired.

Shop for this book and other biographies at the KidCrunch Store.