America White Table: A Tale of Honor and Remembrance

America White Table, written by Margot Theis Raven, is a poignant and engaging children's book that explores the importance of honoring and remembering our fallen soldiers in a unique way. Through its powerful storytelling and captivating illustrations, this book gently introduces young readers to the concept of sacrifice, bravery, and the significance of setting up a white table.

Discovering the Story

Margot Theis Raven, a celebrated children's book author, was inspired to write America White Table after attending a memorial service where she witnessed a group of young cadets setting up a white table to honor prisoners of war and soldiers missing in action. This impactful experience planted a seed in Raven's mind, and she decided to craft a compelling story that sheds light on this unique tradition.

America's White Table

by Margot Theis Raven (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1553 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	26 pages

FREE

The White Table Tradition

Setting up a white table is an act of remembrance often seen at military and veterans' events. The table is set with several symbolic items, each representing a significant aspect of the sacrifices made by our military personnel. A single white candle symbolizes the hope for their return, a red rose represents the love we hold for them, a slice of lemon reminds us of their bitter fate, salt symbolizes the tears of their families, an upside-down glass signifies their inability to partake in the meal, and an empty chair represents their absence.

The Power of Illustrations

Accompanying Margot Theis Raven's moving narrative are the beautifully detailed and emotionally captivating illustrations by Mike Benny. Benny's art brings the story to life, evoking a sense of empathy, respect, and gratitude in readers of all ages. Each page is filled with vivid colors and lifelike characters, making America White Table visually engaging and immersive.

Themes Explored

America White Table touches on various themes that resonate with readers of all backgrounds and ages. The book explores the concepts of respect, sacrifice, patriotism, and the importance of remembering those who have fought for our freedom. It encourages readers to honor and appreciate the service of our military personnel while provoking thought and conversation about the true meaning of bravery.

Impact and Awards

Since its publication, America White Table has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition for its compelling narrative and powerful message. This thought-provoking book has received numerous awards, including the Christopher Award which honors books that promote the betterment of society.

America White Table is a remarkable book that strikes a chord with readers of all ages. Through its engaging narrative, stunning illustrations, and profound themes, it teaches children the importance of honoring and remembering the sacrifices made by our military personnel. Margot Theis Raven and Mike Benny have created a timeless masterpiece that serves as a reminder of the courage and dedication exhibited by those who serve in the armed forces. This book is an ideal addition to any children's library, offering an opportunity for parents, educators, and caregivers to discuss the significance of remembrance and gratitude.

America's White Table

by Margot Theis Raven (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1553 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	26 pages

FREE

The White Table is set in many mess halls as a symbol for and remembrance to service members fallen, missing, or held captive in the line of duty. Solitary and solemn, it is the table where no one will ever sit. As a special gift to her Uncle John, Katie and her sisters are asked to help set the white table for dinner. As their mother explains the significance of each item placed on the table Katie comes to understand and appreciate the depth of sacrifice that her uncle, and each member of the Armed Forces and their families, may be called to give. It was just a little white table... but it felt as big as America when we helped Mama put each item on it and she told us why it was so important. "We use a Small Table, girls," she explained first, "to show one soldier's lonely battle against many. We cover it with a White Cloth to honor a soldier's pure heart when he answers his country's call to duty." "We place a Lemon Slice and Grains of Salt on a plate to show a captive soldier's bitter fate and the tears of families waiting for loved ones to return," she continued."We push an Empty Chair to the table for the missing soldiers who are not here..." Margot Theis Raven has been a professional writer working in the fields of radio, television, magazines, newspapers, and children's books for 30 years. Margot's first children's book, Angels in the Dust, won five national awards, including an IRATeacher's Choice Award. Her first book with Sleeping Bear Press, Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot, was the runner-up for the 2004 Texas Bluebonnet Award. She lives with her family in Charleston, South Carolina. Mike Benny's illustrations have appeared in Time, GQ, New Yorker and Sports Illustrated Magazines. He has also been awarded two Gold Medals from the Society of Illustrators. This is Mike's first children's book. He lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Mary Ann and daughter Adele.