Zachariah and the Poppy Lady is an original story, written by Ellen B. Everly, second grade teacher, for her students. The story was inspired by the need for stories to help young children understand the significance of this day off from school and by a letter to the editor about a man selling poppies. Poppies are made by veterans and sold by the American Legion Auxiliary to help pay hospital and other medical costs for veterans. "The auxiliary memorial poppy is a blood-red emblem of the battles Americans fought for God and country, miracles purveyed, and lives lost. This small flower looms large as a reminder of the sacrifices our nation's veterans have made and continues to make for our country. 1 "The poppy has become a symbol of honor and respect for military service-past and present." This book is dedicated to all men and women who have fought to give us the freedoms we enjoy in this country 1 Poppy/Public Relations Campaign 2005, American Legion Auxiliary National News, page 28