Theodore Roosevelt for Kids

June 15, 2010

The latest installment in the For Kids series offers a clear and interesting biography of the 26th President, plus 21 activities to supplement the narrative. Vigorous writing is rooted in a wealth of fascinating details, and the many photographs, political cartoons, posters, postcards and advertisements help bring to life Roosevelt and his times. Some of the activities, however, have a rather tenuous connection to the text, such as making éclairs (because Roosevelt once said that President McKinley "had no more backbone than an éclair"). One activity—needle felting teddy bears—could prove dangerous for young readers; sewing would be safer and more historically accurate. No source notes are provided, even for quotations, but five of the recommended readings are solid works for young readers. An attractive, well-written volume that, through the better activities, makes learning history a hands-on affair. (places to visit, index) (Nonfiction. 9-12)

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August 1, 2010

Gr 4-8-What stands out in this volume is the writing, which presents history as an engaging and informative story. Hollihan opens the narrative with a focus on asthmatic "Teedie." His efforts to strengthen his body are accompanied by a list of bodybuilding activities. Following the chronology of Roosevelt's life, a positive picture emerges of the man and his family, his rise to fame, and his impact on history. Activities include making a journal, building a diorama, "hunting" with a camera, and even making a dessert based on Roosevelt's insult that McKinley had "no more backbone than a chocolate eclair." The projects are interesting and accessible, with cautions to keep an adult nearby when necessary. Numerous black-and-white photos, insets, political cartoons, and illustrations break the text into manageable and interesting bits. A note to Roosevelt's football-player son admonishing him to not sacrifice his studies for the game sounds like any parent. But the president was able to take his concerns further when he invited representatives from Harvard, Yale, and Princeton to the White House to create a new set of rules resulting in the game as we know it today. Both useful and entertaining, this is a worthy addition to most collections.-Janet S. Thompson, Chicago Public Library

Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2010
Grades 5-8 Part of the For Kids series, this biography combines hands-on craft activities and games (start a penny collection; make a campaign button) with the life story of Theodore Roosevelt and the political history of his time. The combination does not always work: it is jarring to read a boxed section on How to make a yummy chocolate 'clair opposite the account of the bombing of the warship Maine. And while kids may enjoy the chatty interactive tone, they likely wont have the background to fully grasp the details about political campaigning and foreign policy, which seemed aimed at a much older audience. What works best here is the lively account of Roosevelts progressive campaigns for fair pay, restrictions on child labor, control of big business, and his pioneer role in conservation, including his efforts to save the Grand Canyon. No source notes are given for the many direct quotes, but a bibliography and list of places to visit is included.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)