“The Soldier and the Squirrel” is a book written to teach young children about injured war heroes who served for their country.

“The Soldier and The Squirrel’ is not just a book, but a tool used in schools across the country introducing our youth to our returning wounded, reframing life’s tragedies and disability as a whole,” according to a news release.

Micaela Bensko, an advocate for the disabled, visits different schools alongside Purple Heart recipients to read “The Soldier and The Squirrel,” according to officials.

“This connects the students with the veterans opening the door for what is to follow – a candid conversation about the warrior’s recovery and how each uncovered blessing throughout their challenge,” the news release said.

Related: Micaela Bensko Shares New Book

Bensko developed a curriculum (with her K-5 teaching certification) which students are encouraged to apply this concept to real life experiences.

“Squirrel started out as a blog while I was recovering from an accident that left me in a wheelchair,” said Bensko. “For a year, I had nothing to do but stare at a ceiling fan, so one day I decided to start blogging.”

One of Bensko’s blogs happened to be about the animals that lived on the hillside, particularly a squirrel that Benskso’s children named Rocky.

As the days dragged on, she realized how much joy the squirrel and other wildlife brought to her home that she missed over the years from being a working parent.

“I was a destination wedding photographer but also worked with our family’s organization for years, providing free reconstructive surgery to troops returning from war,” Bensko said.

Related: Triple Amputee And Purple Heart Recipient To Visit Students Friday

Nowadays children are unaware of how many injured veterans they encounter throughout their daily lives, Bensko said.

“That is why Stephanie Orehek, our illustrator and Army Wife, designed a picture glossary in the back for definitions of signs of a wounded warrior,” she said. “I believe as parents we have a responsibility to engage our children at the youngest age possible with the awareness of those who sacrifice so much for our freedoms.”

The children today are the future and will be the ones caring for the veterans to be, and hopefully “The Soldier And The Squirrel” is one contribution toward this goal, said Bensko.

Otsego Elementary in Ohio has officially selected “The Soldier and the Squirrel” for its military appreciation program, complementing their high school’s selection of The Medal of Honor Program.

“The Soldier and the Squirrel” is available for purchase at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum Store, or click here.

Bansko will visit Global Prep Academy in Valencia on Wednesday, Jan. 31.

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