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Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
With every step, the Tomb Guards pay homage to America’s fallen. Discover their story, and that of the unknown soldiers they honor, through resonant words and illustrations.Keeping vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Arlington National Cemetery, are the sentinel guards, whose every step, every turn, honors and remembers America’s fallen. They protect fellow soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, making sure they are never alone. To stand there—with absolute precision, in every type of weather, at every moment of the day, one in a line uninterrupted since midnight July 2, 1937—is the ultimate privilege and the most difficult post to earn in the army. Everything these men and women do is in service to the Unknowns. Their standard is perfection.Exactly how the unnamed men came to be entombed at Arlington, and exactly how their fellow soldiers have come to keep vigil over them, is a sobering and powerful tale, told by Jeff Gottesfeld and luminously illustrated by Matt Tavares—a tale that honors the soldiers who honor the fallen.
32 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 16, 2021
17 people are currently reading
542 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Gottesfeld
85 books44 followers The greatest unknown milestone of the then-nascent civil rights movement took place in the summer of 1939, in Alexandria, Virginia, when young Black attorney S.W. Tucker led a sit-down strike by young Black men in his hometown to try to integrate the then-new Alexandria Public Library.
He instructed his men to go into the library, ask for library cards, and when they were denied because of their race, to pick a book from the shelves, sit down, and read. Arrests followed, of course. But Tucker had assembled the press, and the next day, the Sit-Down Strike was national news. Save for the start of World War II a week or so later, it might be as well-known today as the Birmingham AL bus boycott.
FIGHT FOR THE RIGHT TO READ (Creston, September 9, 2025) is the story, told for kids with my co-author (and dear friend!) Michelle Y. Green and beautifully illustrated by Kim Holt. If access to public libraries matter to you, this is the book for you. Oh! The library was finally integrated...in 1960 or so. And there's an elementary school in Alexandria today named for this hometown hero who went on to become one of the ablest Black civil rights attorneys of his era.
He instructed his men to go into the library, ask for library cards, and when they were denied because of their race, to pick a book from the shelves, sit down, and read. Arrests followed, of course. But Tucker had assembled the press, and the next day, the Sit-Down Strike was national news. Save for the start of World War II a week or so later, it might be as well-known today as the Birmingham AL bus boycott.
FIGHT FOR THE RIGHT TO READ (Creston, September 9, 2025) is the story, told for kids with my co-author (and dear friend!) Michelle Y. Green and beautifully illustrated by Kim Holt. If access to public libraries matter to you, this is the book for you. Oh! The library was finally integrated...in 1960 or so. And there's an elementary school in Alexandria today named for this hometown hero who went on to become one of the ablest Black civil rights attorneys of his era.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
June 11, 2021
I love everything about this book – the powerful message, the informative text, the evocative verse, the lifelike images, and the great vocabulary. A wonderful emotion inducing tribute to both the unknown soldier and the tomb guards.
November 22, 2021
I am an Unkown. I am one of many.
The first unknown soldier was laid to rest in a special tomb at Arlington in 1921 after the War to End All Wars. In 1937, the Tomb Guard began keeping vigil 24 hours/day and 7 days/week. Told from the perspective of that first unknown, this book tells the story of this national wonder in lyrical prose and gorgeous illustrations. Such a moving combination. You can see those guards in their impeccable uniforms, hear the clicks of their shoes, and feel their devotion.
Guard our perfect rest. Give us now your very best. Twenty-one. Twenty-one. Twenty-one.
The first unknown soldier was laid to rest in a special tomb at Arlington in 1921 after the War to End All Wars. In 1937, the Tomb Guard began keeping vigil 24 hours/day and 7 days/week. Told from the perspective of that first unknown, this book tells the story of this national wonder in lyrical prose and gorgeous illustrations. Such a moving combination. You can see those guards in their impeccable uniforms, hear the clicks of their shoes, and feel their devotion.
Guard our perfect rest. Give us now your very best. Twenty-one. Twenty-one. Twenty-one.
March 16, 2022
After the War to End All Wars, most of America's fallen came home. Their families could place flowers on their graves and pebbles on their headstones. But combat's vile fury left others nameless and faceless. There was no way for loved ones to claim us, no place for our nation to honor our sacrifice.
In 1921, one unknown returned to stand for all.
This is the story of how the Arlington Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier came to be. It is also the tale of the sentries who guard the monument, so that, no matter the weather or the hour, the soldiers interred there will never be alone.
Illustrations by Matt Tavares.
This is a respectful and touching look at the men and women who have served our country so selflessly.
In 1921, one unknown returned to stand for all.
This is the story of how the Arlington Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier came to be. It is also the tale of the sentries who guard the monument, so that, no matter the weather or the hour, the soldiers interred there will never be alone.
Illustrations by Matt Tavares.
This is a respectful and touching look at the men and women who have served our country so selflessly.
November 29, 2024
I felt the respect that the author and illustrator put into this book pouring out of the pages and into my heart as I read it.
Powerful tribute to the Unknown Soldier and the sentinel guards.
Powerful tribute to the Unknown Soldier and the sentinel guards.
February 24, 2021
The history and tragic majesty of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery — and the dedicated Sentinels who guard it — are revealed in this poignant nonfiction book for children. Published on the 100th anniversary of the tomb’s creation.
Gottesfeld’s poetic text grabs the heart and Tavares’ gorgeous illustrations add reverence. This unique tribute to America’s unnamed fallen should be in every library in the land, available to children and adults alike. Most highly recommended!
5 of 5 Stars
Thanks to Jeff Gottesfeld, Matt Tavares and Candlewick Press for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#twentyonesteps #jeffgottesfeldwriter #tavaresbooks
#candlewickpress
Gottesfeld’s poetic text grabs the heart and Tavares’ gorgeous illustrations add reverence. This unique tribute to America’s unnamed fallen should be in every library in the land, available to children and adults alike. Most highly recommended!
5 of 5 Stars
Thanks to Jeff Gottesfeld, Matt Tavares and Candlewick Press for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#twentyonesteps #jeffgottesfeldwriter #tavaresbooks
#candlewickpress
February 7, 2025
If you’re visiting Arlington, this book could serve as introduction to your littles.
The illustrations are great, and while the flow is a bit odd, your children will learn some interesting facts and perhaps pick up on the respect and honor we give to those entombed there.
Ages: 4 - 10
Content Considerations: nothing to note.
The illustrations are great, and while the flow is a bit odd, your children will learn some interesting facts and perhaps pick up on the respect and honor we give to those entombed there.
Ages: 4 - 10
Content Considerations: nothing to note.
April 3, 2021
Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a moving, somber tribute to those interred at Arlington National Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and those who guard the tomb around the clock regardless of the weather. Narrated by the World War I soldier first laid to rest in the tomb, the text conveys two themes: honor and connection. The guards honor the dead’s sacrifice, and the dead honor the guards’ dedication to their “quest for perfection.” When the narrator considers those who gather each day to view the tomb and its honor guard, he emphasizes how “we become theirs,” and that the unknown dead are individuals who represent many others.
Author Jeff Gottesfeld captures the tragedy of soldiers’ deaths in words that young readers are likely to find affecting and emotional but will also help them frame questions about patriotism, war, sacrifice, and honor. Artist Matt Tavares is one of the best illustrators of children’s books at work today, rivaling the legendary Wendell Minor in his range. Tavares works in a variety of media to visually convey Gottesfeld’s themes in large page spreads that draw in those who read and view this remarkable book. Tavares’s use of both dark and colorful palettes, as well as a variety of focal points creates a dramatic effect with each turn of the page.
Twenty-One Steps is an excellent choice to read near Memorial Day or Veterans Day, or in conjunction with discussions of war, soldiers, or patriotism. This book can also serve as an interesting counterpoint to any of the other fine titles written and illustrated by Matt Tavares.
Author Jeff Gottesfeld captures the tragedy of soldiers’ deaths in words that young readers are likely to find affecting and emotional but will also help them frame questions about patriotism, war, sacrifice, and honor. Artist Matt Tavares is one of the best illustrators of children’s books at work today, rivaling the legendary Wendell Minor in his range. Tavares works in a variety of media to visually convey Gottesfeld’s themes in large page spreads that draw in those who read and view this remarkable book. Tavares’s use of both dark and colorful palettes, as well as a variety of focal points creates a dramatic effect with each turn of the page.
Twenty-One Steps is an excellent choice to read near Memorial Day or Veterans Day, or in conjunction with discussions of war, soldiers, or patriotism. This book can also serve as an interesting counterpoint to any of the other fine titles written and illustrated by Matt Tavares.
November 13, 2021
Stunning illustrations and just the right words made me cry from page one to the last.
I'll be adding this to our high school picture book collection. The reader really should read more about the significance of the 21 steps and more about the guards to supplement this because I don't think it was enough, but maybe it is enough for a younger audience. Informational but mostly a patriotic tear-jerker.
I'll be adding this to our high school picture book collection. The reader really should read more about the significance of the 21 steps and more about the guards to supplement this because I don't think it was enough, but maybe it is enough for a younger audience. Informational but mostly a patriotic tear-jerker.
November 12, 2021
Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a children's picture book written by Jeff Gottesfeld and illustrated by Matt Tavares. It is an up-close look at the sentinels who protect and honor America’s fallen. Since today (11 November) is Remembrance Day, I thought it would be apropos to read this book today.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a historic monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains have not been identified. It is located in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, United States.
Gottesfeld's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Gottesfeld's text, spare and shining, gently gives the backstory. However, it is the unexpected footsteps of the soldier who stands guard and 21 seconds of silence that resound loudly and purely. Backmatter includes an afterward. Tavares' magisterial art soars, awash in opposing forces: shadowed but luminous, soaked in both melancholy and reverence.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. The First World War took not only the lives of many, but, tragically, their identities as well. Nameless and faceless heroes were impossible to reunite with loved ones. Families were unable to properly mourn. So, in 1921, one soldier was chosen to represent the Unknowns.
All in all, Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a wonderful tribute and impeccably honors its subject.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a historic monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains have not been identified. It is located in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, United States.
Gottesfeld's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Gottesfeld's text, spare and shining, gently gives the backstory. However, it is the unexpected footsteps of the soldier who stands guard and 21 seconds of silence that resound loudly and purely. Backmatter includes an afterward. Tavares' magisterial art soars, awash in opposing forces: shadowed but luminous, soaked in both melancholy and reverence.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. The First World War took not only the lives of many, but, tragically, their identities as well. Nameless and faceless heroes were impossible to reunite with loved ones. Families were unable to properly mourn. So, in 1921, one soldier was chosen to represent the Unknowns.
All in all, Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a wonderful tribute and impeccably honors its subject.
May 15, 2021
I wasn't expecting the emotional response this book provoked from me. It emotes such a sense of pride and patriotism. Well done!
March 9, 2021
My father was a pilot during World War II. His plane was shot down in the Pacific Ocean in a battle near the Philippine Islands. I've always thought of him being part of those honored by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. His plane and those in it were never found. With every step, the Tomb Guards pay homage to America's fallen when they guard this Tomb. Here in serious and respectful words, Jeff Gottesfeld allows one "unknown" to tell the story of the Tomb and of those in the "Tomb Guard" who guard it. They are devoted to The Sentinel's Creed, given at the beginning, whose author is unknown, fitting for this special place that honors all the unknown who have given their lives fighting for America. Matt Tavares' illustrations bring a solemn look at this important monument, showing the faces of soldiers, visitors, and those who walk those twenty-one steps. There is a page with the ceremony carrying that first unknown, a soldier's shoes walking in the moonlight, and another's serious face walking in the snow. The unknown soldiers buried in the tomb are never alone. It's a beautiful book of respect and honor both to those unknowns and to the Tomb Guard. Gottesfel adds an Afterword with some background history.
Thanks to Candlewick Press for this copy.
Thanks to Candlewick Press for this copy.
May 31, 2022
This was a great picture book about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A perfect read for Memoial Day weekend and remembering all the soldiers who have sacrificed for our country.
October 31, 2021
Excellent resource for kids to learn of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Veteran’s Day.
November 9, 2022
Prediction: Caldecott Winner or at LEAST honor. I would also hope it wins multiple other awards. That is all I have for you, five people who will read this.
March 17, 2021
Beautiful illustrations! Love that there’s a picture book for readers to learn about America’s fallen unknown soldiers.
October 16, 2021
2022 newbery? Cadence, setting
July 8, 2021
Opening the pages, I was enveloped by the realistic, warm drawings. I was tossed back in time, to each of my visits to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. With the poetic prose, I got goosebumps as I recalled sitting on the steps, watching mesmerized as the guard marched with precision. And when the guard changes? The somber and respectful feelings are thick in the air. All of this comes through in Twenty-One Steps.
Something I did not know? I had no idea that the guard was not always a part of the memorial. I cannot fathom that people played ball and had picnics on the tomb. In a cemetery? Wow. No wonder the guard was implemented – and, now, no one can forget that soldiers lie there. Gone but not forgotten. Gone but not without my humble thanks.
Something I did not know? I had no idea that the guard was not always a part of the memorial. I cannot fathom that people played ball and had picnics on the tomb. In a cemetery? Wow. No wonder the guard was implemented – and, now, no one can forget that soldiers lie there. Gone but not forgotten. Gone but not without my humble thanks.
June 9, 2021
An incredibly moving picture book! The illustrations are so beautifully mastered and appropriately give honor to the subject matter of this book. While the content is understandably heartbreaking, it is handled with such reverence and respect. A deeply valuable picture book to share with kids and adults alike.
July 20, 2021
Gorgeous illustrations(the clouds!) and interesting facts. I love the juxtaposition of the unknown guarding the unknown(because the names aren't advertised and the full face of the soldier is rarely seen). I would have liked a bit more back matter but, since this is almost the first book on the topic, I get it.
January 14, 2022
Seriously got choked up reading this one. Brilliantly written and illustration are spot on. Makes me recount when I have been there. Seriously loved this book (really any book that chokes me up is wonderful)!
January 7, 2023
Beautiful and poetic tribute to the sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the story of the Unknown himself. I think anyone who visits this special area in Arlington would appreciate the elegant artwork and respectful tone of the book, but it’s a must-read for children who visit.
March 30, 2024
Sobering, gorgeously illustrated book about America’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I remember when DNA allowed scientists to identify the Unknown Soldier from the Vietnam War. This is one of my Grands Oliver’s favorites. ❤️
January 15, 2022
Incredible story, so we’ll told. Choked me up a bit.
January 19, 2022
If this book doesn't make you tear up, you don't have a heart. Writing from the POV of The Unknown was a powerful craft move. This is a book to share every Veterans Day, every Memorial Day.
April 27, 2024
The illustrations are perfect and brought back memories of when I got to see the changing of the guard at the tomb. A great picture book to be read on memorial day.
May 2, 2024
Beautiful and touching. I am so very glad that we still honor those who pay the ultimate price for our freedoms, even those who are unknown.
March 23, 2022
I’ve seen this tomb and it’s breathtaking. It brings tears to even strong grown men.
June 6, 2021
An inspiring introduction to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. This beautiful picture book is both reverent and informative and clearly explains the history and significance of the memorial. A wonderful book to share on Veteran's Day, Memorial Day, or anytime the focus is on patriotism and service to our country.
February 5, 2022
Told from the point-of-view of the unknown soldier buried the tomb of the unknown soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, this gorgeous picture book honors the memories of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and recounts the origins of the tomb and those who silently guard it round the clock.
May 15, 2024
Beautifully illustrated and writer book about guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. My boys say, "Give it 5-stars".
Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews