Don't Forget, God Bless Our Troops

Don't Forget, God Bless Our Troops

Jill Biden, illus. by Raúl Colón. S&S/Wiseman, $16.99 (40p) ISBN 978-1-4424-5735-5
Second lady of the United States Biden turns her family's experiences into an earnest picture book that encourages support of those serving in the military and their families. Natalie (inspired by Biden's granddaughter) misses her father desperately when he is deployed. "Soldiers have to do hard things sometimes," her mother quietly reminds her. But waiting and worrying about her father, and trying to be a strong example for her younger brother, Hunter, are tough. The words "Be brave, Natalie" appear as a frequent refrain as Natalie, Hunter, Mommy, and Nana celebrate holidays and milestones, wishing Daddy could be with them. Packages, prayers, video chats, and kind gestures from friends and neighbors make things a little easier, but nothing can match the joy of the day when Daddy arrives home to his "brave, brave girl." Colón captures the rhythms of everyday family life at school, church, and elsewhere in his textured, mixed-media compositions, depicting several tender moments of concern and love among family members. Biden also includes an author's note, information about the military, and tips for how children and adults can reach out to military families. Ages 5-up.

--Publishers Weekly, May 14, 2012