Nonfiction
By Brian Kilmeade
In this double biography of Theodore Roosevelt and Booker T. Washington, Mr. Kilmeade provides an excellent introduction to two American icons. His focus is the relationship between them, their respect for each other, and their historic dinner together at the White House shortly after Roosevelt became president. That meal broke the racial code of the day, producing both applause and virulent outrage across the country. Here’s a timely reminder of the importance of working together as Americans.
History
By Herman E. Melton
Many books have been written about World War II, yet the chronicles of merchant marine sailors are few. This book helps fill this gap. It recounts the author’s experiences as Merchant Marine Academy cadet and engineering officer aboard Liberty ships in war. He sailed in North Atlantic convoys, made one round trip on the Arctic Murmansk run, and was aboard a ship in the Pacific that was torpedoed and sunk by Japanese aircraft. It’s worth reading as a memoir, an adventure, and underreported history.
Thriller
By Alex Abella
In 1933, Winston Churchill visits Cuba during an American speaking tour. An IRA assassin, working in Cuba after fleeing Ireland, spots Churchill and attempts to kill him, seeking vengeance for his dead brother. The attempt is foiled by Walter Thompson, Churchill’s bodyguard. Eight years later, during the height of the London Blitz, the assassin returns to finish the job. Thompson knows the stakes are amplified with Churchill as prime minister. A historic thrill ride.
Space
By Dava Sobel
Our solar system has rarely been explained so simply yet so elegantly. Ms. Sobel proves herself a master of astronomy and storytelling. In her presentation of the planets and sun, she explains the history of astronomy and presents those who worked tirelessly to discover and track the planets in order to give us a better understanding of our galaxy. Although it is a science book, her inclusion of historical and modern theological views makes the story all the more entertaining and awe-inspiring.
Classics
By Michael Collins, et al.
This book, covering more than 80 of “the world’s most beautiful and historic works,” is itself incredibly gorgeous. Including hundreds of illustrations and photographs, mini-biographies of authors, the histories behind books from the “Dead Sea Scrolls” and “The Book of Kells” right up to “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” and “Le Petit Prince,” this lovely compendium serves as a reference guide and an intellectual history of humanity, with particular focus on Western culture. A bibliophile’s delight.
For Kids
By Eve Bunting and Jan Brett
For next year’s holiday, seek out this favorite: Mrs. Bear decides that this is the year she and Mr. Bear will enjoy Valentine’s Day together, so she sets her alarm for Feb. 14. Upon waking, she braves the still wintry conditions to prepare for the celebration. This sweet tale, made sweeter by Ms. Brett’s adorable illustrations, is the perfect read to celebrate the loving spirit of the holiday.
