At Soldiers’ Angels, we know the power of a good book, especially for children in military families. Books provide comfort, foster understanding, and create a sense of connection. International Children’s Book Day (April 2nd) is a great reminder of the importance of stories that uplift and support military children. As we continue to recognize the Month of the Military Child, we want to highlight books that help military kids feel seen, supported, and connected year-round. 

Military life comes with unique challenges, frequent moves, long separations, and the uncertainties of deployment. For children, these experiences can be confusing and emotional. That’s why books written for military children are so important. These books help military kids navigate feelings, feel less alone, and stay connected to their deployed or active-duty parents.

This April, we invite families, volunteers, and supporters to share and read books that resonate with military children. Here are some wonderful selections that beautifully capture their unique experiences 

Books

Countdown ‘til Daddy Comes Home (also available in a Mommy version) by Kristin Ayyar 

A beautifully written and comforting story that helps children cope with the challenges of a parent’s deployment. Through engaging activities and creative ways to stay connected, this book turns waiting into a meaningful and interactive experience. 

Night Catch by Brenda Ehrmantraut 

A touching story that follows a father and son as they use the North Star to bridge the distance between them during deployment. With heartwarming illustrations, this book provides a sense of comfort and connection, reminding young readers that love knows no bounds. 

H is for Honor: A Military Family Alphabet by Devin Scillian

This engaging alphabet book introduces children to the military lifestyle, explaining traditions, values, and experiences in a way that is both educational and comforting. It’s a great book for helping military children feel proud of their unique family experiences. 

Why Are You So Scared? & Why Are You So Sad? by Beth Andrews 

These compassionate books help children understand and navigate the emotions that come with having a parent who experiences PTSD or depression. Written with warmth and sensitivity, they offer an age-appropriate approach to complex feelings, providing reassurance and guidance for young readers. These books are interactive, meant to help gear parent and child on the conversation of PTSD or depression.

Written by Soldiers’ Angels Volunteers

Letters from Strangers by Collin Esposo 

A heartfelt story about a young boy who begins writing letters to his deployed father and soon inspires his friends and community to do the same. As the letters travel across the miles, they bring comfort, connection, and a powerful reminder of the love and support surrounding military families.  

 Tank and Silly Help a Good Friend by Eileen Price 

A charming and engaging story about friendship, teamwork, and the importance of lending a helping hand. This book teaches young readers the values of kindness, support, and camaraderie, principles that are at the heart of military life. 

Reading together is a wonderful way to support military children and help them feel understood and valued. Even though International Children’s Book Day has passed, we encourage everyone to continue sharing stories that strengthen military kids. 

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