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18 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • May 2015 In the picture book Hero Dad, by Melinda Hardin a child explains that his father is a superhero, but he does not have a cape or even X-ray vision. His father is a United States soldier, clad in Army boots and fatigues. This easy read is told from the point of view of the soldier's child. Its short sentences and bright, colorful illustrations help to reassure other young children who are waiting for parents to return from their service. If I Ever Get Out of Here by Eric Gansworth offers a teen point of view of military life. lewis is a Native Ameri- can kid growing up in poverty. George is the son of a strict, but loving Air Force officer. Despite their differences, these two teens find true friendship, bonding over music by The beatles and Queen. George is always happy to invite lewis over to his house, but can lewis do the same without revealing how poor he is? The book offers a nice portrayal of military fami- lies and how tough it can be to have to move around so often. Library Tidbits by CRAIG GRAZIANO Navy-wife Sarah Smiley invites a different dinner guest every night for the year her husband is away in the memoir Dinner with the Smileys. She wants her three boys to gain experience from others, so senators, school teachers, athletes and many others come to their house. A charming story of the importance of community to family, Smiley's heartfelt memoir is full of courage in the face of loneliness and longing for one's family to reconnect. All of these books are available in our library system, and are excellent reads to honor those who have served. Place them on hold at LibraryPoint.org H appy Memorial Day! This month we offer book suggestions cen- tered on Military Families. A Salute to Military Families!