This ANZAC Day, we invite you to join us at Cockburn Libraries as we come together to honour and remember the incredible stories of courage, sacrifice, and mateship that shape this meaningful day. Each year on April 25th, communities across Australia unite to pay tribute to those who served and fell in conflicts, from World War I to present-day. It’s a day of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance for the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Whether you’re a history lover, a parent eager to share the story of ANZAC Day with your kids or simply someone wanting to reflect on the experiences of our veterans, Cockburn Libraries offers a wide range of books, films, and digital resources to help you learn more.
Here are a few of our recommendations:
Anzac Ted (ages 4-6)
Perfect for young readers (ages 4-6), Anzac Ted tells the heartwarming story of a boy’s teddy bear passed down from his grandfather. The bear, weathered from its time in the war, has a remarkable history that the children in the classroom are unaware of. Although worn-out and overlooked, the teddy bear was once a comfort to veterans, helping them heal and find solace as they returned from battle.
Remember Lest We Forget (ages 5+)
This beautifully illustrated children’s book is the first in the internationally acclaimed Remember series. Told from the perspective of a young child attending an Anzac Day march, the story allows readers to step into the shoes of those they encounter, exploring the reasons behind their participation in the march and understanding the sacrifices made by the men and women in uniform. The book captures the deep emotions and importance of remembrance, while offering a unique opportunity for young readers to reflect on the contributions of veterans and their families.
Après la Guerre: Anzac Stories (Recommended for adults)
Après la Guerre explores the emotional journey of ANZAC soldiers as they returned to civilian life after World War I. The book delves into the personal struggles and hardships faced by these soldiers, particularly as they tried to adjust after the horrors of Gallipoli. Through these powerful and often overlooked stories, readers gain a deeper understanding of the psychological toll war takes on those who served.
Anzac Girl: The War Diaries of Alice Ross-King (Recommended for adults)
This true story is told through the diary entries of Alice Ross-King, a nurse during World War I. Her accounts capture the heartbreak, love, and unimaginable pain of the war. Alice’s experiences offer a deeply personal perspective on the impact of war, and her bravery would later earn her the title of the most decorated woman in Australia.
The Chipilly Six: Unsung Heroes of the Great War (Recommended for adults)
Shortlisted for the 2024 NSW Premier’s History Awards, The Chipilly Six uncovers the incredible story of two Australian sergeants, Jack Hayes and Harold Andrews, who defied orders during the intense battle at Chipilly Spur in 1918. This book highlights their bravery on the battlefield and the personal challenges they faced afterward, shedding light on their remarkable journey and the lasting effects of war.
