In Hope Freedom Rings, a lesson in patriotism.
The book In Hope Freedom Rings is a collection of quotes, sayings and songs from past and present inspirational thinkers, philosophers, authors, political leaders, composers and others whose words and music still ring true.
Editor and former schoolteacher Margo R. Friedman, started the book four days after the September 11 terrorist attacks on the United States. As the editor of another children’s book, Brain Snacks, she asked herself what meaningful contribution could she make? The answer was In Hope Freedom Rings.
The book promotes patriotism, liberty, freedom, justice and courage. Each page is perforated so that the quotes can be easily detached and shared with others. The content is for upper-elementary school children, but it has appeal for all age groups.
The 96-page paperback book is illustrated using symbols of freedom and cultural diversity to show unity and the American spirit. Illustrator Glenn C. Mullett of Mullett Media in Warrenton, Va., donated his time in creating the designs.
Among Those Quoted
Rudolph Giuliani, Abraham Lincoln, Helen Keller, Jimmy Carter, Colin Powell, Frances Scott Key, Ronald Reagan, Jesse Jackson, Carl Sandburg, George Washington, William Jefferson Clinton, Amelia Earhart, Thomas Paine ... and many more.
Friedman’s goal was to bring In Hope Freedom Rings to elementary school children most affected by the September 11th attacks.
With that in mind, 7,000 copies of In Hope Freedom Rings were donated to elementary school children in New York City and Washington, D.C. The book was released during American Education Week (November, 2001) at a special presentation ceremony with the Superintendent of the Washington, D.C. Public Schools. The books were used as part of the D.C. Public Schools’ “Pennies for America” Project.
At a special assembly on December 13, 2001, the book was presented to the New York City Public School System. P.S. 160Q was selected to host the event. Sixth grade thespians entertained with a dramatic interpretation of quotes from the book, and the Walter Francis Bishop School Glee Club, which sang on the U.S.S. Intrepid on Veterans Day, performed. The Superintendent and other Board of Education officials attended. A special staff development team was appointed to create a mini guide to accompany the book, and it was used as part of the fourth grade social studies program throughout District 28.
Through an alliance with the National Association of Elementary School Principals, In Hope Freedom Rings was provided to over 30,000 elementary school principals.
A portion of the proceeds from books that were sold went to a special fund that provided education assistance for postsecondary study to financially needy children and spouses of those killed or permanently disabled as a result of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States.
Although out of print and no longer available, the book is still used in schools across the country today, teaching students about having a love for the country where In Hope Freedom Rings.