It’s not surprising to see a book written by a former president to top the charts of a bestseller. Most do so as a quick cash grab, with a collection of speeches or some form of autobiography, to keep their legacy fade into obscurity. So it’s a bit surprising to find George W. Bush’s latest book, Portraits of Courage, topping a variety of best seller lists without resorting to these cheap tricks, but rather with a book that moves us and encourages us reflect upon the true meaning of courage.

Unless you have been paying close attention to the mischievous deeds of hacker Guccifier, who hacked into Bush family e-mail accounts four years ago and exposed early paintings of the former president, you may find it surprising to learn that George W. Bush is a painter.

Portraits of Courage brings together sixty-six full-color portraits and a four-panel mural painted by President Bush of members of the United States military who have served our nation with honor since 9/11 — and whom he has come to know personally. The book raises awareness to issues facing veterans and their families, transitioning into civilian life.

Coming from a former president that surprised us with his ability to poke fun at himself for some laughs, Portraits of Courage surprises us once more with a personal and intimate look at true courage, in a day and age when we seem to need it the most.