In Sunday's Arts & Life section, get insights into George H.W. Bush's leadership style -- and a feud with Henry Kissinger -- revealed by Bush's time as a U.S. representative to China. The China Diary of George H.W. Bush: The Making of a Global President shows how some advice from mom led him to seek bonds of trust with the next generation of China's leaders. His year in China laid the foundations for the pragmatic, prudent, personal foreign policy as president.

Also, find capsule reviews of new children's books. Among them:

A Kitten Tale, by Eric Rohmann (ages 4-8). Three playful kittens are fearful about the impending snow, and one can't wait to play in it. A beautifully illustrated story about curiosity and overcoming fear.
 
Clementine's Letter, by Sara Pennypacker with illustrations by Marla Frazee (ages 6-9).
Clementine has made it to third grade, and likes her teacher because she understands his rules. When the teacher has the opportunity to go on a research trip to Egypt, Clementine can't stand the thought of his leaving and has to do something.

The London Eye Mystery, by Siobhan Dowd (ages 9-12) Ted and Kat watch their cousin Salim go for a ride on the London Eye Ferris wheel, but he doesn't get off. Has he been kidnapped or run away, or is the young boy lying on a cold slab at the morgue? Preteen readers will enjoy this thriller with well-developed characters.