Smithsonian Atlas of Space Exploration, by Roger D. Launius and Andrew K. Johnston (Smithsonian Books, 2009, $34.95). A unique, lavishly illustrated and extensive history of space exploration, from Ptolemy and Copernicus to today’s Mars missions.

To Keep the British Isles Afloat: FDR’s Men in Churchill’s London, 1941, by Thomas Parrish (Smithsonian Books, 2009, $26.95). An inside look at the work and adventures of Harry Hopkins and Averell Harriman in the creation of history’s most remarkable international partnership—the World War II Anglo-American alliance.

The House at the End of the Road: A Story of Race, Identity, and Memory, by W. Ralph Eubanks (Smithsonian Books, 2009, $26.95). Using interviews, oral histories and archival research, the author weaves a powerful story about race and identity through the lens of one American family across three generations.

American Indians/American Presidents: A History, edited by Clifford E. Trafzer (Smithsonian Books, 2009, $29.95). An illustrated, multiauthor exploration of how Native Americans have interpreted the power and prestige of the presidency and advanced their own agenda for tribal sovereignty.

Alan Bean, Painting Apollo: First Artist on Another World, by Alan Bean(Smithsonian Books, 2009, $48.50). Eyewitness testimony from the unique perspective of the only artist, and one of only 12 humans, who have walked on the moon—features 120 of Alan Bean’s luminous paintings.

Abraham Lincoln: An Extraordinary Life, edited by Harry Rubenstein (Smithsonian Books, 2009, $12.95). Commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth, this book tells Lincoln’s extraordinary story as only the Smithsonian could tell it, through the stunning Lincoln collections at the National Museum of American History.

Chapinlandia—Marimba Music of Guatemala (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 2008, $15). Steeped in centuries of tradition, Chapinlandia and its music express the “modern” marimba sound drawn from the African, Indian and Ladino (Creole) roots of Central America.

Tom Glazer Sings Honk-Hiss-Tweet-GGGGGGGGGG and Other Children's Favorites (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 2008, $15). Tom Glazer’s uncanny ability to “speak to children as saints speak to birds,” as touted by the New York Times, rings loud and clear in this collection of live performances.

¡Que Viva el Canto! Songs of Chile, Rafael Manríquez and Friends (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 2008, $15) More than 100 years of tradition and three regions of Chilean folk-song style are summed up in this contemporary musical tour-de-force led by singer, guitarist and composer Rafael Manríquez.

Books listed on Pages 14 and 15 can be ordered through online book vendors or purchased in bookstores nationwide.

Recordings can be ordered from Smithsonian Folkways Mail Order, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings Dept. 0607, Washington, D.C. 20073-0607. To order by phone, call (800) 410-9815 or (202) 275-1143.