I’m Still Scared By Tomie DePaola
Puffin Books
$13.99, ages 4–8

In the weeks after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, Tomie’s world is a mix of the familiar and the frightening: He practices for a dance recital and sees the movie Dumbo; his mother sews blackout curtains and he practices air raid drills at school and at home. He learns he can get the information and assurance he needs from his parents, even if he can’t at school — a lesson all children need in scary times.

Barack Obama: Son of Promise, Child of Hope By Nikki Grimes
Simon & Schuster
$16.99, ages 5–10

This picture book captures the passion and personal history of Democratic presidential hopeful. Filled with tales of his life, the book also highlights Obama’s vision for the future of America.

My Dad, John McCain By Meghan McCain
Simon & Schuster
$16.99, ages 5–10

With the presidential election just around the corner, children may be exposed to television, radio, and newspaper reports about the presidential candidates. Written by John McCain’s daughter, Meghan, this book illustrates athe candidate’s personal and public lives, and gives an easy-to-understand view of McCain’s political career.

Helen Keller By Lesa Cline-Ransome
HarperCollins Children’s Books
$16.99, ages 5–9

For decades, Helen Keller’s story has been a cherished tale for young children, who are often amazed by the young girl’s determination to communicate and connect with the world around her. This beautifully illustrated inspirational book is written for early readers, and captures the courage that Keller showed throughout her life. The rhythmic text and warm watercolors make this a welcoming edition.

Titanicat By Marty Crisp
Sleeping Bear Press
$17.95, ages 6–12

Did you know that there was a mama cat and a litter of kittens on the ill-fated Titanic? During the spring of 1912, before the mighty ship was launched, a ship’s cat gave birth to a new batch of four-footed crew members. This book illustrates the wonderful, true story of a young cabin boy who took it upon himself to care for these littlest additions to the crew. A story of new life, this story will captivate readers who will want to find out what happened in the end.

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