Now, Obama pens book for kids

He may have the weight of the world on his shoulders, but Barack Obama still has time to jot down a few musings for younger citizens. The US president will on November 16 release an illustrated children's book called Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters, publisher Random House said Tuesday.

The 40-page book features tributes to 13 inspiring US figures, from painter Georgia O'Keefe to baseball player Jackie Robinson wo have shaped American culture.

It will be illustrated by award-winning artist Loren Long, illustrator of the most recent edition of children's classic "The Little Engine That Could". It will have an initial print run of 500,000, and coming out in the holiday season it should quickly make its way up the bestseller lists.

"It is an honour to publish this extraordinary book, which is an inspiring marriage of words and images, history and story," said Random House president Chip Gibson. Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters celebrates the characteristics that unite all Americans -- the potential to pursue our dreams and forge our own paths."

According to Random House, the book was acquired and the manuscript completed before Obama took office in January 2009. All proceeds from the sale of the book will go to a scholarship fund for the children of fallen and disabled soldiers.

Obama signed a three-book deal worth $1.9 million with Random House in 2004. The book is Obama's third, following the success of his international bestselling memoirs Dreams from my Father and The Audacity of Hope.