by John "Choo-Choo" Shannahan
7/2/2014

Peter Alderman may no longer stand in front of a classroom, but retirement has not diminished his ability to educate and inspire.

Alderman, a former Baker Street resident, recently released his second book “The Rocket’s Red Glare”, which details the story of the writing of our National Anthem.  Gloriously illustrated by Bea Moritz, it includes a read along CD narrated by Holliston’s own country music star Jo Dee Messina, who adds her musical interpretation of the anthem and “America the Beautiful” as well as a previously released gem titled “Heaven Was Needing a Hero”.

For Alderman, a 37 year Natick teacher, the book offered an opportunity to tell more than the story of the anthem’s writing, as he also examines the symbolic importance of our flag as it waved above Fort McHenry on that night 200 years ago.  “To me, our flag is a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unity,” explains Peter. “Images of Pearl Harbor, Vietnam, Fallujah, Normandy, and 9-11 flicker in my mind when I see the flag waving.  The National Anthem is in honor of all those who have perished to make us a free nation.   I always felt that that honor should be reflected in our response to hearing the National Anthem, as an expression of respect to our men and women in the armed service.”

Alderman believes that “Too many folks interrupt the Anthem to cheer on their teams.  I am hoping that “The Rocket’s Red Glare” might help readers understand the monumental importance of our National Anthem, and hoping that they too will harbor appreciation for the sacrifices that were made for them to be able to attend that game, to cheer for their team, to celebrate with their friends in “the home of the brave.”

According to Alderman, the book is targeted to everyone, and he is very pleased with the outcome. He says that “When I do creative writing workshops, I always emphasize that you paint a picture with words when you write.  Bea Moritz, the illustrator, took my words and painted the pictures perfectly.  Jo Dee Messina donated all of her time and talents to the project.  She wouldn’t even accept a Ring Ding for her efforts, and she did an incredible job in a short time.  I am extremely grateful to her for her kindness, her friendship, and her thoughtfulness.”

Reaction to the book, in Alderman’s words, has been “Incredible!!  There are book signings set up, radio interviews in L.A. and on the East Coast.  The book is striking a nerve in people’s patriotic hearts that they want to share with their children and friends.  Folks seem to like the informative, patriotic, succinct manner in which the story is written, the depth of Bea’s illustrations, and the quality and power of the songs that Jo Dee sings.”

Alderman and his wife Pam have been married for 45 years and have three sons.  They lived in Holliston for many years before following their sons who work in the music business to Nashville.  “We really loved living in Holliston,” says Alderman, who indicates they stay in touch with many of their old friends.

“To say we miss Holliston is an understatement” he says.  “Leaving Baker Street was the hardest thing we ever have done for we left behind memories, friendships and my spreader that Jack Olson still has.”

“The Rocket’s Red Glare” is available at Barnes and Noble or online at BarnesandNoble.com, Amazon. Com or other book vendors.