Darryl Vidal is an author, publisher, educator, and lifelong patriot. As the founder of Crane Books, he has dedicated his career to helping authors share stories that inspire readers of all ages. A historian at heart, Darryl has written widely on education, leadership, and American history, always with the goal of making complex ideas meaningful for today's youth.With The Star-Spangled Banner - Explained, Darryl brings the story of Francis Scott Key and our national anthem to life for middle school readers, connecting history to the values of courage, freedom, and pride that continue to define America. His mission is to help young people understand not only the words of the anthem but also the sacrifices behind them, so they may carry its spirit into the future.