A Poppy Is to Remember – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

A Poppy Is to Remember

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2004

78%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

A gentle Canadian picture book that explains why we wear poppies, perfect for Remembrance Day but pretty niche otherwise.

A Poppy Is to Remember

book

2004

78%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

A gentle Canadian picture book that explains why we wear poppies, perfect for Remembrance Day but pretty niche otherwise.

4.8

Jump to

Also rated on

4.8

View →

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is a solid, purpose-built picture book that does exactly what it sets out to do: explain Remembrance Day and the poppy symbol to very young kids without scaring them. The illustrations are beautiful, the tone is gentle, and it includes good historical context.

That said, this isn't a book your kid will ask for at bedtime. It's a teaching tool—great for Canadian families in early November, or for classroom use, but pretty niche otherwise. The 4.8 Amazon rating and positive parent reviews confirm it works well for its intended purpose.

If you need to explain why Grandpa wears a poppy or what Remembrance Day means, this is your book. If you're just looking for a great picture book to read on a random Tuesday, keep looking.

Age Fit

Best for ages 4-8, particularly around Remembrance Day (or Veterans Day). Multiple sources confirm it's designed for preschool and early elementary readers. Older kids won't be interested unless they're studying WWI or need it for school.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Gentle, age-appropriate introduction to war remembrance that models respect and gratitude without being preachy. The 'soothing words and illustrations' approach handles a heavy topic with emotional care, teaching kids about sacrifice and honor in a way that feels safe rather than traumatic. Models values of remembrance and peace.

Imaginative

This is primarily an educational/informational picture book rather than a creative narrative. The stunning paintings by award-winning Ron Lightburn add visual richness, and connecting the symbol of the poppy to history invites some symbolic thinking. But it's not asking kids to build worlds or explore ideas—it's explaining a specific historical concept. Solid illustrations, limited creative invitation.

Safe

Extremely safe for its intended audience (ages 4-5+). Specifically designed with 'soothing words' to introduce war concepts without trauma or graphic content. No violence, gore, or scary imagery—just the symbolism of poppies and remembrance. The only reason it's not 100 is that war is inherently a heavy topic, but the book handles it with exceptional care for young readers.

Enriching

Strong educational value for Canadian kids (and others) learning about Remembrance Day, WWI, and the symbolism of the poppy. Includes 'In Flanders Fields' poem and historical context about Canada's peacekeeping missions. Builds empathy for veterans and understanding of sacrifice. Very purpose-built for teaching a specific concept, which it does well. High marks for civic education and historical literacy.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Handles the heavy topic of war and remembrance with exceptional care for young kids—'soothing' is the operative word here
Award-winning illustrations by Ron Lightburn make the history visually accessible
Includes the full 'In Flanders Fields' poem and historical context about the poppy symbol
Strong tool for parents and teachers to introduce Remembrance Day concepts without traumatizing 4-year-olds
Teaches empathy, gratitude, and civic understanding of sacrifice and peacekeeping

⚠

What to Watch For

This is specifically about war remembrance—some kids may have questions about death and why people fight
Very Canadian-centric (Remembrance Day vs. Veterans Day), though the concepts translate
It's educational rather than a fun bedtime story—best used purposefully around November 11
One Goodreads reviewer called it a 'tear jerker,' so be ready for some feelings

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think people wear poppies in November? What does it help us remember?"
"What does it mean to honor someone? Who are some people in your life you want to honor?"
"The book talks about soldiers who fought for freedom. What do you think freedom means?"
"Have you seen anyone wearing a poppy? Why do you think they chose to wear it?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic