It Takes a Family to Serve: A Tribute to Military Families

In rhymes and images that encompass both quotidian and life-or-death situations, this reassuring picture book pays simple but effective tribute to loved ones keeping things running during a family member’s military deployment. Wheeler’s concise, specific language compares two types of service—in various military branches, and through domestic activities back home—while Soman’s watercolor and gouache illustrations depict various families adapting as a loved one serves far away, and keeping in touch through physical letters, care packages, phone calls, and the internet. From a farm-based family taking on chores while Mom pilots an Air Force plane to a Navy sailor’s family washing his truck and caring for his animals in his absence, their love and labor demonstrate that while a loved one is “in the service,/ these folks are true cadets.” Light-infused spreads pause on rural landscapes as well as a Coast Guard rescue, evoking heartfelt emotion with every scene. It’s a collaboration that will help any reader understand the sacrifices of both those who serve and those whose support makes service possible. Characters are portrayed with various abilities and skin tones. Ages 4–8. (Mar.)