I’m a Neighborhood Geek, you guys. I love, love, love my city, my community, and pretty much everything in them. So it will come as no surprise that I also adore National Night Out (known as Night to Unite in many communities, including mine). It’s coming up on August 2. And in this year in which so many things seem to divide us, I think it’s more important than ever to focus on what connects us. National Night Out can help us do just that.

As National Night Out celebrations take shape around the country, here are a few topical books you can share with young members of your community—and also, a sneak peek at one you can share with them this coming fall. (It’s called This is My Neighborhood, and it’s an adorable illustrated nonfiction title that will be out just in time for the 2016–2017 school year!)