Theodore Roosevelt

September 1, 2009
Gr 7-10-This trim and extremely readable biography portrays the 26th president's full and varied life. Cooper draws on many sources to weave a story of the sickly child who grew into a robust, energetic man with seemingly boundless energy. He covers various facets of TR's life: naturalist, cowboy, soldier, author, loving husband, doting father, civil servant, and unexpected (but very successful) president. While striking an admiring tone, the author stops short of painting only a glowing picture of Roosevelt. He discusses his subject's abuses of power and often-foolhardy behavior. Colorful quotations demonstrate TR's humor and character. Black-and-white photos and reproductions illustrate the volume. This title is more concise than Betsy Harvey Kraft's "Theodore Roosevelt: Champion of the American Spirit" (Clarion, 2003) or Matt Donnelly's "Theodore Roosevelt: Larger Than Life" (Linnet, 2002). It is a compelling summary of a man who is credited with enlarging our national parks, beginning the construction of the Panama Canal, ending a war between Russia and Japan, "busting" trusts and cracking down on corrupt big business, and being "the most popular man in America" at the end of his administration."Lisa Crandall, formerly at Capital Area District Library, Holt, MI"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2009
Grades 6-9 From the Up Close series, this biography presents an evenhanded account of the life and presidency of Theodore Roosevelt. A frail, sickly child, Roosevelt was encouraged to exercise vigorously and spend time outdoors, advice that he followed for the rest of his days. His energetic approach to life and politics led to reform within the country and an aggressive stance in the world. This clearly written biography includes many anecdotes and well-chosen quotes that help bring Roosevelt to life. Though Cooper notes in the foreword his strong affinity for Roosevelt, this feeling never gets in the way of the books candid assessment of the mans faults, which balances its appreciative account of his good qualities. Appendices include a bibliography and source notes. Cooper offers a solid portrayal of this noteworthy American president.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)