Less than one month to go ... Star-Spangled: The Story of a Flag, a Battle, and the American Anthem is finally out on May 26. I'm so excited to share this story with readers. It is a different take on the "typical" story, with new characters and perspectives. Who has heard of Thomas Kemp? Anyone? Mary Pickersgill? I learned much in the process, as I always do. The book emphasizes that history is complicated, but always fascinating, and relevant. I was happy that, due to its patriotic theme, the book was going to be published during baseball season, in an Olympics year, and an election year. And now the world looks different. Despite our new world, my hope is that this story will resonate with readers. I can pretty much guarantee that if you read this book, you will gain a whole new appreciation for the story behind our anthem.