Monday, July 20, 2015




 
The Veterans’ Clubhouse
By Kristen Zajac
Illustrated by
Jennifer Houdeshell
“The Veteran’s Clubhouse,” by Kristen Zajac, illustrated by Jennifer Houdeshell, is an important and timely book. It deals with the problem of homelessness in our veteran population. This faith-based story presents the problem as seen through the eyes of two caring children, Patrick and his sister, Hailey. In the U.S., we have veterans from the Vietnam War, Iraq, and Afghanistan conflicts—all dealing with the problems of re-integration into society and PTSD.

After a family lunch at a restaurant, Patrick and family meet a homeless vet and give him food. Grandpa and Charlie, the homeless man, are both Vietnam vets. Patrick is always “drumming” and soon he and Charlie are drumming together. They listen to Charlie’s story and want to do more than give food. They want to provide shelter and food for Charlie and other homeless vets. Patrick and Hailey talk to their church Pastor and soon the whole community is working on a solution to this difficult problem—a Veterans’ Clubhouse! 

Jennifer Houdeshell’s expressive illustrations show Patrick and Hailey, their family, friends, churh, and their collective “good works.” The characters’ personalities, their concern, and the compassion that drives their efforts to help veterans, come across loud and clear. The artwork is detailed, colorful, and realistic. This adds another layer and personal dimension to the story.

“The Veterans’ Clubhouse” is a good example of a community coming together to help people in need. What started with compassion and empathy soon becomes “Faith in Action.” Through their efforts, Patrick and Hailey experience the power of ideals and service, and also provide a solution that should inspire others to work to solve similar social problems. This book is highly recommended for teachers, parents, and students ages 8 to 10, and for school and church libraries.

Reviewed by:
Penelope Anne Cole
Award Winning Author of Magical Matthew and Magical Mea 
and Mágico Mateo (Spanish) and Mágica Mea (Spanish)
New:  Magical Mea Goes to School.  Coming soon Mágica Mea Va a la Escuela

Tags:
Kristen Zajac, Jennifer Houdeshell, The Veterans' Clubhouse, Patrick, Hailey, faith-in-action, vietnam veterans, homelessness, community support, problem solving, solutions

 

Posted by at

7 comments:

  1. Janet Ann CollinsJuly 21, 2015 at 7:49 AM

    Thanks for reviewing this helpful book.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. penelope anne coleJuly 21, 2015 at 12:05 PM

      Hi Jan, thanks for your support. Your reviews are always to the point and helpful, too. Wishing much success to Kristen and Jennifer. Blessings, Penny

      Delete
  2. Barbara CairnsJuly 21, 2015 at 2:49 PM

    Congratulations to Kristen and Jennifer for a very important message in their new book!
    As always, a nice review, Penny. I like your blog. I'm trying to start one, but definitely am a newbie at it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. penelope anne coleJuly 21, 2015 at 8:15 PM

      Thanks for your comments, always supportive. Wishing them much success. Sending blessings to all.

      Delete
  3. Karin LarsonJuly 21, 2015 at 6:53 PM

    Great review, Penny! Congratulations again, Kristen and Jennifer!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. penelope anne coleJuly 21, 2015 at 8:16 PM

      Hi Karin,
      Thanks for the well-wishing and supportive comments. Congrats and blessings, Penny

      Delete
  4. BarbaraBJuly 22, 2015 at 12:36 PM

    Hi Penny, I found your review full and profound. Thanks and congratulations to Kristen and Jennifer.

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)