Author: Andrew Maraniss
Illustrator: DeAndra Hodge
There are many reasons why someone chooses to serve in the military. For some, it is a family tradition. For others, it is a sense of duty, purpose, or the desire to be part of something greater than themselves. While few are willing to give up everything they have to serve their country in this way, there are individuals, like Pat Tillman, who choose to do exactly that: Giving their all, no matter the cost.
Pat Tillman, former NFL star for the Arizona Cardinals, was no stranger to hard work. From being underestimated when it came to football to the decision to leave at the height of his career to join the U.S. Army, he was determined to make a difference. Beyond the Game: Athletes Change the World – Pat Tillman written by Andrew Maraniss and illustrated by DeAndra Hodge tells the true story of Pat’s life, from his adventurous childhood to his remarkable journey from the football field to the battlefield.
Extend your Learning:
Ask Questions:
Use these comprehension questions with your kids or students to build their literacy skills!
- What were some of the struggles that Pat Tillman faced in his life? How did he overcome them?
- What did Pat like to do in his free time?
- What offer was he made during this football career and why did he turn it down?
- Why did Pat leave football to join the Army?
- How was joining the military different from what Pat expected? How did this make him feel?
- State your opinion: Who are other people that you know that made similar sacrifices that inspire you?
Discover More:
- Stop by the NVMM and see Pat Tillman’s section on our timeline!
- To learn more about Pat Tillman and the Pat Tillman Foundation, visit the website at this link: Pat Tillman Foundation
- For some guiding questions for youth on how to help others, find them in the back of the book on pages 72-73.
- For more resources for families, find them in the back of the book on page 82.
Create:
Mini Flag “Footballs of Honor”
- This activity allows people to connect sportsmanship through football while simultaneously showing respect for veterans.
- What you will need: Brown construction paper, red/white/blue ribbon, stickers, and markers/crayons/or colored pencils.
- What you will be doing: Cut the construction paper into football shapes, decorate them with the coloring materials, and write “Thank You” messages to veterans on them. Attach a ribbon and hang them up to make a “Wall of Honor.”
Explore Your Local Library:
If you are one of our central Ohio neighbors, check out the book at your local branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library where the book is available. Then come to the NVMM and learn more about unique Veteran stories that can be found throughout American History.
