Cuban Missile Crisis: 50 Years Ago Today

A half-century ago today, the United States and the Soviet Union began a series of events that nearly commenced a catastrophic nuclear war. This critical episode in American history is the subject of Enslow Publishers' Cuban Missile Crisis: In the Shadow of Nuclear War.

Author R. Conrad Stein's 128-page book succinctly provides young readers with the facts and age-appropriate style to understand this dramatic incident. He provides useful background on the Cold War and key figures such as JFK, Robert Kennedy, and Soviet premier Nikita Khrushchev. Stein provides a clear discussion of the implications of possible American actions during the crisis, such as a naval blockade and United Nations deliberations. The author also weaves the consequences of a nuclear conflict into his narrative, a lesson young readers need to grasp and carefully consider.

Enslow's Cuban Missile Crisis: In the Shadow of Nuclear War, part of the "America's Living History" series, is available in a library-bound edition for $23.95. That price represents a 25% school/library discount from Enslow's list price for this title.

Teaching American History

Stories in American History, Enslow's new series for middle school students, available in both library and paperback editions,includes titles about the Amazing Underground Railroad, California Gold Rush, Incredible Transcontinental Railroad, Legend of the Alamo, Secret of the Manhattan Project, and Surviving the Oregon Trail.

Great for reports or research, these titles contain timelines, chapter notes, a further reading list, Internet addresses, and an index.

On this date in 1939, World War II began as Nazi Germany invaded Poland

Adolf Hitler, leader of Nazi Germany, ordered his army to invade Poland on September 1, 1939, igniting World War II in Europe. This bloody conflict ravaged Europe and millions of people died. Generals Dwight Eisenhower and George Patton led the United States armed forces across the Atlantic, helping the Allies claim victory. From the beaches of Normandy to the streets of Berlin, author R. Conrad Stein examines the important battles, the men and women who fought the war, and how this conflict changed the world.

Today is V-J Day

Library: 978-0-7660-3640-6
Grades 5–up

On this day in 1945 the Allies proclaimed today V-J Day, one day after Japan agreed to surrender unconditionally.

World War II in the Pacific: From Pearl Harbor to Nagasaki starts with the attack at Pearl Harbor and ends with the news that was announced on August 15 in reference to Japan's surrender.

Author R. Conrad Stein explores the historic carrier-based naval battles, the "island hopping" campaigns, the home front, and the beginning of the atomic age.