The Continental Army was founded by the Second Continental Congress for purposes of common defense.

This event is considered to be the birth of the United States Army.

The U.S. Army and Military Careers
Author: Earle Rice Jr.
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2699-5
Publication Year: 2006
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

From a ragtag collection of former colonial militia to the cutting-edge fighting force of the twenty-first century, the United States Army has always answered the call to serve its country. Today, its members are needed throughout the world to protect U.S. interests, provide humanitarian aid, and to maintain peace. The U.S. Army and Military Careers takes the reader inside this military branch’s history, describing its current operations and structure, exploring the career paths it offers, and spotlighting the equipment and the soldiers who keep America free.

"Despite everything, I believe that people are really good at heart" - Anne Frank

Anne Frank was born 81 years ago today. Her life has lived on through many works, and notably her diaries that were published by her father after her death.

Frank is featured in Enslow's new series True Stories of Teens in the Holocaust. She is prodomently featured in Hidden Teens, Hidden Lives and on the cover of the book.

Thousands of Jews went into hiding during the Holocaust. Barns, trapdoors, bunkers, secret attics, forged identity papers, and fake names became tools for survival. Author Linda Jacobs Altman uses primary sources to detail the stories of many Jews who went into hiding to survive the Nazi's planned extermination of Europe's Jews.

Inspiring Quotes to Celebrate Anne Frank's Birthday

On this day in history

Janis Joplin debuted on stage at the Avalon ballroom in San Francisco.

Curriculum Connections newsletter and the World Cup

School Library Journal's Curriculum Connections newsletter talks about the World Cup and features soccer books. One of Enslow's titles, David Beckham: Gifted and Giving Soccer Star is mentioned.

Enslow also has other new books on soccer. Soccer Skills is great for learning how to play the game, including practice tips and building social skills.

Goal! Science Projects with Soccer is another terrific book for students, making learning physics fun.

Happy Birthday Sasha Obama

Celebrating the Obama Family in Pictures captures the many exciting moments of the family, before and after they moved into the White House.

On this day in 2008

Ken Griffey Jr. of the Cincinnati Reds became the sixth player in baseball history to hit 600 home runs.

Today would have been Les Paul's birthday

Electric Guitar Man The Genius of Les Paul
Author: Edwin Brit Wyckoff
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2847-0

Publication Year: 2008
Interest Level: Grades 3-4
Page Count: 32

Without the electronic guitar invented by Les Paul, music would never have been the same. In this biography of Paul's life and career, Edwin Brit Wyckoff shares how the rambunctious boy from Waukesha, Wisconsin, was propelled to stardom by his unrivaled playing ability and technological prowess. Revered by generations of musicians and fans, Paul and his inventions have forever changed the way music is produced, recorded, and enjoyed.

Happy Birthday Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp Movie Megastar
Author: Jill Menkes Kushner
State Affiliation of Author: NJ
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3567-6

Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 5-9
Page Count: 48

Did you know that Johnny Depp once worked as a telemarketer trying to sell ballpoint pens? This lively biography summarizes Depp's life from his childhood, to his love of music, and his acting career. This fun-to-read book offers quotes, personal stories, and accessible features such as a timeline and glossary.

Today is Kanye West's birthday

Kanye West Hip-Hop Star
Author: Gretchen Weicker
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3214-9

Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 5-9
Page Count: 48

Kanye West has never been the typical rapper or hip-hop artist. While other rappers are known for their baggy clothes and graphic lyrics, West uses his music to pay tribute to his mother, fight injustice in the world, and spread a positive message. With preppy clothes, honest lyrics, and a trademark teddy bear, West has built his success by breaking the mold.

Today is Allen Iverson's birthday

Allen Iverson Never Give Up
Author: John Albert Torres
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2174-7

Publication Year: 2004
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 104

Chronicling the life and career of basketball star Allen Iverson, whose will and determination helped him overcome a background of poverty and violence to become one of the greatest basketball players in the world today. With his lightning-fast speed and acrobatic ball-handling skills, Iverson has helped transform the Philadelphia 76ers into championship contenders. He has led the NBA in scoring twice in the last six years and won both the All-Star Game and regular season MVP awards in 2001.

Possible tornado in Dundee, MI

While driving home from visiting family yesterday, I drove past the Cabela's in Dundee, MI. I had seen on the news (earlier in the morning) that a possible tornado had damaged Cabela's. Seeing the damage was eerie (to be honest, I did not see any damage to Cabela's, but I did see damage to the building next door). Granted, I was driving, and there was a lot of traffic trying to get off the highway at that exit, so I could not get a really good look, but what I saw made me think it might have been a tornado. The roof of the water park next to Cabela's was damaged (and missing in some places). Made me want to get into the office and start looking through Enslow's Tornadoes book and learn more.

Today would have been the birthday of Gwendolyn Brooks

Gwendolyn Brooks ''Poetry Is Life Distilled''
Author: Christine M. Hill
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2292-8

Publication Year: 2005
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 128

For Gwendolyn Brooks, writing was vital to life—"like breathing or eating," she said. Brooks cast her poets’ eye on the daily struggles of ordinary African-Americans and told the truth about racism and urban poverty. In 1950, Brooks became the first black writer to win a Pulitzer Prize. As the civil rights movement evolved, so did Brooks’s own views. Her work grew sharper with black pride and solidarity. Brooks’s career spanned more than fifty years, and her poetry appeals to people from all walks of life. This vividly drawn life story will fascinate Brooks’s fans and entice other readers to discover her poetry.

New Orleans- Katrina and the Oil Spill

Over the long weekend I was fortunate enough to visit New Orleans. I had never been there before and really enjoyed the city and all of its culture! From Bourbon St. and the French Quarter, to eating po boys uptown, it was a great experience.

It is hard to believe Hurricane Katrina hit the area 5 years ago. I thought I would blog about our book, Hurricane Katrina Strikes the Gulf Coast. You can find more information about it here: http://www.enslow.com/displayitem.asp?type=1&item=1931

But today there is a different enviromental tragedy going on in the Gulf. Enslow is actually coming out with a book this fall about oil spills, so keep an eye out for it this fall! It is called Smog, Oil Spills, Sewage, and More.

Today is Ron Wood's Birthday

Coming this fall, Enslow will publish a book on The Rolling Stones. Keep an eye out for it!

Today would have been Jim Thorpe's birthday

Jim Thorpe "There's No Such Thing as 'Can't'"
Author: Michael A. Schuman
State Affiliation of Author: NH
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3021-3

Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

American Indian Jim Thorpe made great feats a routine during his athletic career, winning gold medals in the Olympics and playing professional baseball and football. Although he faced bitter racism during his life, Thorpe continued to excel. When he received his gold medal for the decathlon in the 1912 Olympics, the King of Sweden proclaimed him the "greatest athlete in the world." Author Michael A. Schuman relates this American's exciting story, including the revocation and ultimate return of his gold medals, using interviews with Jim Thorpe's son and daughter as part of his research.

Today would have been Wild Bill Hickok's birthday

Wild Bill Hickok, Revised Edition
Author: Carl R. Green, William R. Sanford
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3177-7

Publication Year: 2008
Interest Level: Grades 5-9
Page Count: 48

A Civil War hero, Army scout, lawman, showman and guide—Wild Bill Hickok's life seems too exciting to be true. However, his shootouts with rowdy cowboys and his life-or-death fight with a grizzly bear were real! This Wild West hero is truly legendary.

Today would have been Dorothea Lange's birthday

Dorothea Lange A Life in Pictures
Author: Laura Baskes Litwin
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2697-1

Publication Year: 2007
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 128

Dorothea Lange was an influential American photographer and photojournalist. Lange is best known for her Depression-era work, which gave a face to the widespread human suffering that was taking place across the country at that time. Lange's work during this period, in addition to her later work, would profoundly influence the development of documentary photography.

Today would have been Igor Sikorsky's birthday

Coming in the fall, Enslow will add a biography of Igor Sikorsky to it's list. This biography, part of our Genius at Work! Great Inventor Biographies series, is geared toward grades 3–4.

On this day in history

Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross.

Known as "the Angel of the Battlefield" during the American Civil War, author Mary Dodson Wade explores the life of Clara Barton in this biography for beginning readers. Read about Barton's early jobs as a teacher and in a government office, and how she created the American Red Cross.

For middle school readers, Don Nardo explores the life of Clara Barton, from her days as a ground-breaking teacher to her creation of the American Red Cross.

Today is Tony Stewart's birthday

Tony Stewart Rocket on the Racetrack
Author: Ryan Basen
State Affiliation of Author: NC
State Affiliation of Title: IN
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2998-9

Publication Year: 2008
Interest Level: Grades 5-9
Page Count: 128

Tony Stewart has won championships in sprint cars, indy cars, and stock cars. He currently races in NASCAR for Joe Gibbs Racing and captured the Nextel Cup championship in 2005. Today he is recognized as one of the biggest names in NASCAR and should continue to compile championships in the seasons to come.

Today would have been Dolley Madison's birthday

Dolley Madison: "The Enemy Cannot Frighten a Free People"
Author: Zachary Kent
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3356-6
Publication Year: 2010
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

As British soldiers marched toward Washington, D.C. on August 24, 1814, Dolley Madison bravely stayed at the White House waiting for her husband, President James Madison. Most residents had fled the city, but Dolley had to save important documents and valuables from the White House, including the famous painting of George Washington. Dolley left the city only hours before the British arrived. Dolley Madison had been a leading social and political figure in Washington for many years and helped to rebuild the American capital. Author Zachary Kent explores the life of this First Lady from her humble childhood to her legacy as a national hero.

Today would have been Lorraine Hansberry's birthday

A Reader's Guide to Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun
Author: Pamela Loos
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2830-2

Publication Year: 2008
Interest Level: Grades 9-12
Page Count: 128

Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun was a landmark play. In addition to being the first play by an African-American woman to appear on Broadway, it was also directed by an African-American man, Lloyd Richards, and all but one of the actors in the production were African-American. The play became the first African-American play to gain national acclaim and broke Broadway records.

Today is Kevin Garnett's birthday

Kevin Garnett All-Star On and Off the Court
Author: J Chris Roselius
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2863-0

Publication Year: 2007
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

Kevin Garnett is the star forward for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association (NBA). In 1995, he became the first NBA player drafted out of high school in twenty years. In 2004, he was awarded the NBA Most Valuable Player Award. Off the court, Garnett has helped many charities, including a $1.2 million donation to Oprah's Angel Network to help with Hurricane Katrina relief efforts in 2005.

Today would have been Mathew Brady's birthday

Mathew Brady "The Camera Is the Eye of History"
Author: Don Nardo
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3023-7

Publication Year: 2008
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

Often considered the father of American photography, Brady developed new techniques and photographed many famous Americans like President Abraham Lincoln and General Ulysses S. Grant. He and his assistants also braved the battlefields and took many important photos during the Civil War. Some of the notable battlefields his operation recorded include Gettysburg and Antietam. Author Don Nardo explores Brady's life from the height of his success to the sad end of his life.

Today is Gary Paulsen's birthday

Gary Paulsen Voice of Adventure and Survival
Author: JoAnn Early Macken
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2721-3

Publication Year: 2007
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 104

In his long and prolific career, Gary Paulsen has authored hundreds of books, short stories, and magazine articles, as well as several plays. Drawing upon his own real-life experiences as an outdoorsman and traveler has helped Paulsen captivate countless readers, both young and old, with his stories. These readers find hope in his tales of adventure and survival.

Today would have been Edward Jenner's birthday

Edward Jenner Conqueror of Smallpox
Author: Ana María Rodríguez
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2504-2

Publication Year: 2006
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

In the eighteenth century, when Edward Jenner lived, people all over the world lived in fear of a disease called smallpox. Thanks to Jenner’s pioneering use of vaccination, the disease would eventually be eradicated. The last known case of smallpox was finally isolated in 1977. By 1980, the disease was declared completely eliminated. Edward Jenner’s work with smallpox opened a new era in medicine, providing hope for humanity by showing that diseases could be fought and eventually defeated.

On this day in 1804

The Lewis and Clark expedition left St. Louis to explore the Louisiana Territory.

On this day in 1796

English physician Edward Jenner administered the first vaccination against smallpox.

Think you're having a bad day?

One of our library customers just called in asking about the replacement cost of a book that had been chewed on by a dog. Sounds like the dog's teeth went completely through the book.

She also mentioned that another book that was just returned to her library had been used as a litter box by a cat.

100 years ago today

Glacier National Park in Montana was established as our tenth national park on May 11, 1910 by President Taft.

Bono celebrates his birthday today

Bono Rock Star Activist
Author: Martha P. Trachtenberg
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2695-7
Publication Year: 2008
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 128

Bono is lead singer of the internationally acclaimed rock band, U2. In addition to his fame as a rock superstar, Bono has also became widely known for his activism in recent years and has even been a candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize. Today Bono stands as a shining example of a superstar who gives back in the hopes of making our world a better place.

On this day in 1869

A golden spike was driven at Promontory, Utah, marking the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.

The Transcontinental Railroad and Westward Expansion tells the story of America’s rapid westward expansion and the railroads that stitched the country together.

In The Transcontinental Railroad and the Great Race to Connect the Nation, authors Wim Coleman and Pat Perrin examine the building of the railroad, the dangers involved, those who supported the railroad, and the impacts the railroad had on American life.

Today is the birthday of Christopher Paul Curtis

Christopher Paul Curtis An Author Kids Love
Author: Michelle Parker-Rock
State Affiliation of Author: AZ
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3161-6
Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 3-4
Page Count: 48

Christopher Paul Curtis grew up in Flint, Michigan, but he drew on his family's southern background to write the books Bud, Not Buddy and The Watsons Go to Birmingham–1963. In an interview with Michelle Parker-Rock, Curtis tells how he went from auto worker to full-time author. He describes how he works and offers advice to young would-be authors

Today is Bill Kreutzmann's birthday

Grateful Dead ''What a Long, Strange Trip it’s Been''
Author: Michele C. Hollow
State Affiliation of Author: NJ
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3028-2

Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 104

''There's nothing like a Grateful Dead concert.'' Chanted at every concert, those words say it all. There really is nothing like a Grateful Dead concert. Fans knew they would encounter friends, old and new, at all the shows. Swaying and dancing to the melodies, many "Deadheads" would follow their favorite band from show to show. Author Michele C. Hollow has interviewed Bob Weir, lead singer, guitar player, and songwriter for the Grateful Dead; Dennis McNally, the Grateful Dead's publicist for over twenty years; as well as David Gans, the radio host of the nationally syndicated "Grateful Dead Hour."

Today would have been Sigmund Freud's birthday

Sigmund Freud Exploring the Mysteries of the Mind
Author: John Bankston
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2336-9

Publication Year: 2006
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

Sigmund Freud is the father of modern psychotherapy. Freud’s theories led to new approaches in how we relate to one another, and has also influenced the arts. Indeed, in the Modern Era, the influence of Freud is nearly inescapable. Without a doubt, this marks Sigmund Freud as one of the most influential figures of Modern History.

On this day in history

In 1925, John T. Scopes was arrested in Tennessee for teaching Darwin's theory of evolution.

Save My NJ Library

On May 6 in Trenton, NJ, there will be a rally from 11:00am-1:00pm on the steps of the State House Annex.

If you would like to contact your state legislators and the governor, click here.

LeBron named 2009-10 MVP

LeBron James was named the NBA's MVP for 2009-10!

"James, who also earned the honor last season, totaled 1,205 points including 116 first place votes, from a panel of 122 sportswriters and broadcasters throughout the United States and Canada and the first ever NBA MVP fan vote." says the article.

Enslow Publishers has a series called Sports Stars with Heart, that includes a title Lebron James: King On and Off the Court

Americans begin to travel more

"After a few years of staying close to home, Americans are ready to start traveling again and will be spending more and staying away longer."

A Reuters article on MSNBC explains that many Americans are ready to travel and start taking vacations. To see the article please click here: Americans planning to travel and spend more



Enslow has a great series called America's National Parks. From Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park to the spectacle of Old Faithful at Yellowstone, America's National Parks helps readers discover the beauty and history of our nation’s national parks. Each book takes readers on a tour of the park’s unique landmarks and features and includes a wealth of details about the history of the region, the designation of each park, its resident plants and wildlife, and activities visitors can do there. Journey from Hawaii’s volcanoes to the Rocky Mountains, from the Great Smokies to Cape Hatteras with America's National Parks.

Today is David Beckham's birthday

David Beckham

Gifted and Giving Soccer Star
Author: J Chris Roselius
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3587-4

Publication Year: 2010
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

One of the most popular athletes in the world, soccer star David Beckham's skills are second to none. As he grew into an international superstar, Beckham used his fame to help the sport of soccer grow and make a better future for underprivileged children throughout the world.

On this day in history

In 1803, the United States purchased the Louisiana Territory from France.

The Louisiana Purchase—The Deal of the Century That Doubled the Nation would be a great addition to a middle/high school library.

The Louisiana Purchase: Would You Close the Deal? makes elementary readers think about this event.

On this day in history

Joan of Arc entered the besieged city of Orleans to lead a victory over the English.

Today would have been Duke Ellington's birthday

Duke Ellington ''I Live With Music''
Author: Carin T. Ford
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2702-2

Publication Year: 2007
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 128

As a composer, bandleader, and pianist, Duke Ellington topped all other jazz musicians of his day. Ellington infused the beats and the rhythms of jazz with a more classical sound and intelligence, elevating jazz to an honored status. Carin T. Ford's new biography examines the life and career of this exceptional entertainer.

Today would have been the birthday of Dale Earnhardt, Sr.

Dale Earnhardt, Sr. The Intimidator
Author: James MacDonald
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3297-2

Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 5-9
Page Count: 128

Dale Earnhardt, Sr., remains one of the most revered figures in NASCAR. Before his tragic death on the track of the Daytona 500 in 2001, he won seven championships—tied with Richard Petty for the most in NASCAR history. He earned the nickname "The Intimidator" due to his aggressive racing style, which fans will never forget.

On this day in history

The crew of the British ship Bounty mutineed, setting Captain William Bligh and 18 sailors adrift in a launch in the South Pacific.

Read about the famous case and the movies it inspired.

Happy Birthday Lois Duncan

Lois Duncan Author of I Know What You Did Last Summer
Author: Kimberly Campbell
State Affiliation of Author: GA
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2963-7

Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 104

Lois Duncan's life as a writer has put her in the limelight and has been deeply rewarding. An award-winning author of more than fifty books and the creator of more than three hundred stories and articles, Duncan has contributed to the lives and the minds of the young. Some of her best-known works have been adapted to film, including I Know What You Did Last Summer and Hotel for Dogs.

On this day in history

Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan was killed in the Philippines in 1521.

Happy Birthday to Ace Frehley

Ace Frehley, one of the founding members of KISS, celebrates a birthday today.

KISS ''I Wanna Rock and Roll All Night''
Author: Aileen Weintraub
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3027-5
Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 112

''I wanna rock and roll all night'' are the words that fans shout at KISS concerts. Self-proclaimed "hottest band in the land," KISS rocks stadiums and albums. Their upbeat anthem "Rock and Roll All Nite" rocketed them to stardom. Fans can’t get enough of their loud, showy, and flashy concerts. Read about the band members and how they formed KISS, the ups and downs of some of the members, how they became a marketing machine, and where they are today.

today is the generally accepted birthday of William Shakespeare

A Student's Guide to William Shakespeare
Author: Walt Mittelstaedt
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2284-3

Publication Year: 2005
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 192

William Shakespeare is the greatest playwright and poet in the history of the English language and perhaps the world’s most popular author. In this Student's Guide to William Shakespeare, the career of this literary giant is examined, spanning his poetry, sonnets, dramas, comedies and tragedies, with special emphasis placed on curriculum-related works such as Romeo and Juliet, Julius Caesar, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Hamlet.

Today is Andruw Jones' birthday

Andruw Jones All-Star On and Off the Field
Author: Tom Robinson
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2867-8

Publication Year: 2007
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

Andruw Jones is one of the most well-rounded players in baseball, with the ability to hit for both average and power, as well as play a nearly flawless centerfield. In 2006, Jones won his ninth consecutive gold glove for his outfield play. In addition to his athletic achievements, Jones has aided many charities, including "Jaden’s Ladder"—an organization dedicated to assisting women and children who have survived abusive situations. Jones and his wife, Nicole, serves as ambassadors for the charity.

Today is George Lopez's Birthday

With his hilarious comedy and hit television show, Lopez has opened doors for other performers in today's multicultural America. Written for grades 3–4, it will inspire children of all backgrounds in his rags-to-riches story.

For grades 6 and up, readers will look at the life of this charitable comedian from his days in little leage baseball to his sold-out comedy shows across the country.

Planning on attending NJLA?

Come meet Tim and John at Ocean Place Resort & Spa in Long Branch, NJ (Booth 322) for some special offers.

Happy Earth Day!

Today, April 22, is Earth Day!

Click here to read an article about the enviromental movement that's been happening since the 60's. Also, visit earthday.org to learn about ways you can help and add your "act of green."

Enslow has a great selection of environmental books, including a series, Scientists Saving the Earth. This unique series profiles the lives of important scientists whose work in a particular field has helped to save endangered animals and the environment.

Other books include:

Earth Day Crafts

Easy Earth-Friendly Crafts in 5 Steps and many more!

Enslow Publishers is committed to printing our books on recycled paper. All of Enslow's pages in our books contain 10%-30% PCW (post-consumer waste) while the coverboard on the outside of each book contains 100% PCW. Our goal is to do our part to help young people and the environment too!

Today would have been J. Robert Oppenheimer's birthday

J. Robert Oppenheimer The Brain Behind the Bomb
Author: Marty Fletcher, Glenn Scherer
ISBN-13: 978-1-59845-050-7

Publication Year: 2007
Interest Level: Grades 5-up
Page Count: 128

In this title in the Inventors Who Changed the World series, Glenn Scherer and Marty Fletcher offer a biography of the brilliant and enigmatic scientist who directed the development of the atomic bomb. Oppenheimer's tumultuous relationship with the United States government is also explored, including accusations that he was a Communist. Activities for young readers related to the topic can be found at the end of the book.

Announcing the release of "Celebrating First Lady Michelle Obama" iPhone App!

Enslow and Still Motion Media teamed up to make another iApp- “Celebrating First Lady Michelle Obama in Pictures" and The Washington Post wrote an article on it! Click here for the full article.

"The app is a children’s story that tells her life through words, pictures and audio files, like a talking wallet photo album. There’s a photo of Michelle from her college days! Tap the iPhone screen and you have the Obamas on the campaign trail! The text even offers “Fun Facts” like this: “Michelle writes her own speeches and does not read from notes.” The Michelle Obama app comes on the heels of the Barack Obama app that hit iTunes two months ago. Both were released by Still Motion Media."

To download the app, please click here. For more information on Enslow Publishers, please visit http://www.enslow.com/

On this day in history

Samuel L. Clemens (aka Mark Twain) passed away on this date in 1910 in Connecticut.

Mark Twain Banned, Challenged, and Censored
Author: Michelle M. Houle
State Affiliation of Author: PA
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2689-6
Publication Year: 2008
Interest Level: Grades 9-12
Page Count: 160

Mark Twain—the pen name of Samuel L. Clemens—is considered to be one of the greatest American writers, and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is thought by many to be the most important American novel. However, the language and attitudes in Twain's books make many people uncomfortable, since they reflect a more racist time in our country's history. As a result, there is a great deal of controversy over whether his books should be taught in school. Author Michelle M. Houle discusses Twain's life and times and analyzes two of his best known books. She also explores the history of book censorship, outlining why it occurs and possible ways to address it. She helps readers make up their own minds about whether the books should be banned.

Today would have been Charlotte Bronte's birthday

A Student's Guide to The Brontë Sisters
Author: Naomi Pasachoff
State Affiliation of Author: MA
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3267-5
Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 160

Although originally published nearly 200 years ago, the works of the Brontë sisters continue to be read and reread today. Twenty-first-century readers are engaged by such issues as the vulnerability of children, the role of education in civilizing members of society, the mysteries of love, and women’s independence. That Jane Eyre remains a beloved novel and Wuthering Heights an admired one today is due at least in part to the passionate intensity of their authors' writing. In short, these books convey basic truths about human experience that are as meaningful in our day as they were in the mid-nineteenth century.

On this day in history

In 2008, Danica Patrick became the first female winner in IndyCar history by capturing the Indy Japan 300.

On this day in history

In 1902, scientists Marie and Pierre Curie isolated the radioactive element radium.

On this day in history

The American Revolutionary War began with the battles of Lexington and Concord.

For grades 6 and up, Primary Source Accounts of the Revolutionary War draws the reader into America's fight for independence from Great Britain through diaries, letters, and other related primary source documents.

For grades 3 and 4, In The Revolutionary War Begins, author Elaine Landau invites readers to make the important decisions during the colonies first battles against the British.

Also for grades 3 and 4, author John Micklos, Jr., takes readers through an overview of the American Revolution, from the Stamp Acts and "the shot heard 'round the world'" to George Washington's election as the first president of the United States. Micklos presents the highlights of the Revolutionary War in a clear, interesting, easy-to-understand manner that will hold the reader's attention to the end.

Today is America Ferrera's Birthday

America Ferrera Latina Superstar
Author: Sheila Anderson
State Affiliation of Author:
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3210-1

ISBN-10: 0-7660-3210-8
Publication Year: 2009
Interest Level: Grades 5-9
Page Count: 48

America Ferrera may play Ugly Betty on TV, but she's anything but ugly in real life! Down to earth, determined, and proud of her accomplishments, Ferrera has become a role model for Latina women everywhere. This fun-to-read book offers juicy quotes, personal stories, and accessible features such as a timeline and glossary.

Today would have been Wilbur Wright's birthday

Author Jennifer Reed takes us on a flight through the lives of two revolutionary brothers who proved to the world that humans could fly. Recounted in detail are the numerous experiments and efforts in aerodynamics that propelled the Wright brothers to finish first in the race toward powered flight. Fun activities such as building a wind tunnel and anemometer are also included.

Iceland volcano grounds flights across northern Europe

Clouds of ash are in the air this morning from an erupted volcano in Iceland. The BBC says "the huge ash cloud is drifting south, leaving airports closed and a number of passengers potentially stranded in the UK and overseas. Experts say the ash affects visibility and debris can get sucked into airplane engines, which could affect the safety of air travel."

To read more about this, USAToday.com has an article here.

Enslow Publishers recently published a book on this natural disaster: Volcanoes: The Science Behind Fiery Eruptions