Description

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In this story, based on true events, a retired lieutenant in the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) shares for the first time his brave 9/11 experience with his grandchildren. Grandpa is a hero who helped rescue the last man out alive from the ruins of the World Trade Center, but his grandchildren didn’t even know it until they started asking questions. Countless stories of ordinary Americans doing extraordinary things surround us, but revealing their stories takes know-how. Through this authentic story and others in the series, kids increase their awareness about 9/11 and everyday heroes. They also learn how to ask probing questions and become active listeners and curious learners seeking context.

My Buddy's a Hero – And I Didn't Even Know It is the first book in the Discovering Heroes® series of books for kids of all ages, especially 7-11. Remembering Heroes is the second book in the series. 9/11 Courage and Tributes is the third.

About the Author

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Kristie Kiernan Bouryal is an author and an accomplished communications and marketing strategist with more than 25 years of experience building brands, demand and revenue generation across multiple industries. She has a proven track record of success in executive roles spanning global corporate communications, marketing and all forms of media.

Kristie has received numerous awards and recognition throughout her distinguished career including an International Business Award for Brand Renovation from the Stevie Awards; Gold Quill Excellence Awards from The International Association of Business Communicators; multiple Gold Hermes Creative Awards from the Association of Marketing and Communications Professionals; the Chairman's Prize for Innovation at The Associated Press; and the news industry's prestigious Peabody Award.

Kristie is a graduate of Syracuse University's Newhouse School of Public Communications. She is a loving wife, sister, aunt and the oldest of four girls born to a now retired nurse and a former lieutenant in the Fire Department of New York's Special Operations Rescue Companies. Kristie was born and raised in Staten Island, New York and currently resides in New Jersey with her husband.

Praise For…

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“Bouryal’s desire is to educate through real-life conversations, and her books are a great resource for parents, grandparents, and teachers to use to initiate those conversations. The more we tell, the more they will know. And the more they know, the less they will forget.” —American Family Association

“These books and their corresponding curriculum are an outstanding resource for teachers. As the immediacy of September 11th fades, it is imperative that young Americans learn about the heroes of that terrible day. Drawing on many personal connections, Kristie Kiernan Bouryal has written a thoughtful, age appropriate series of books that explain the events and aftermath of 9/11 and reveal many of the heroes of 9/11.” —Maryland Educator Mike Chrvala

"This is as unique as children's books get. An authentic 9/11 story that takes readers right back to that day, with a smart approach that teaches kids how to uncover stories of heroism around them. The author skillfully turned America's darkest day into a positive learning for kids." —New York City Educator Kaitlin Carbonaro

"Finally, an honest, first-person account of 9/11 for kids that tugs on heart strings while managing to spark intellectual curiosity and shine a light on everyday heroes. It's a clever, authentic work of art." —New York City Educator Victoria Heidel

"This authentic, heart-warming 9/11 story is a must read. I expect it will help kids to seek deeper meaning for years to come." —New York City Educator Anna Maria Kohlhepp

"This is the best September 11, 2001 story for kids yet. It will help kids to reshape perceptions about the people and world around them." —New York City Educator Lisa DeLuca