Book Description

Ronald Reagan loved to tell stories. Sometimes he used them to break the ice, or to prove a point, but very often he used them to inspire, to uplift, and to remind his listeners of what matters most in life. Recently, in the archives of the Reagan Library, researcher Kiron Skinner unearthed a trove of handwritten Reagan manuscripts from the late 1970s, over 650 in all, which included some priceless examples of Reagan's storytelling abilities. Stories in His Own Hand reproduces the best of these deeply personal anecdotes.

Skinner, along with longtime Reagan aides and scholars Annelise and Martin Anderson, has carefully documented the extent of Reagan's manuscripts, which originated as radio transcripts.Earlier, in the bestselling Reagan, In His Own Hand, the editors compiled a broad range of Reagan's policy-oriented essays from this collection, showing an astonishing breadth of vision concerning nearly every issue he would face as president. Here they reveal a different Ronald Reagan: not the political but the personal man, not the executive but the teacher.

Here is Reagan on men and women, life and death, family and friends. Here is a man who loved to tell a story to make us all stop, listen, and think about what it means to be human. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Excellent Compilation of True Reagan
This is a compilation of transcripts of Ronald Reagan's radio talk-show from the late 1970's. Reagan always loved to use stories to communicate ideas and give advice, and this collection is replete with perfect examples of that. I believe that the four components of leadership are:

1) A clear vision of a better future; 2) The ability to communicate that vision; 3) The ability to get others to want to listen to your ideas and to believe you; 4) The ability to translate your vision into action

Whatever you might think of Reagan's vision for America or of the actions he took, this book shows us how he excelled at communicating his vision and pulling people into it. He was not called "The Great Communicator" without reason, and this book shows you that reason clearly. This is a treasure for Reagan fans, and for anyone who wants ideas on how to be more charismatic.

Fabulous!
If you appreciate Ronald Reagan, you will LOVE this book! If you ever felt you'd like to know him better -- read this book! His stories and examples are right to the point. His title, The Great Communicator, is well deserved!

Very inspiring
I grew up in the Reagan era and always looked up to his leadership and wisdom....his book exemplifies this! His stories make you feel like you are part of his family and you come to embrace his values of religion and politics with a newly formed open mind. This book is full of the strength of the American people and how wonderful it is to be part of such a great nation. I have never missed Ronald Reagan's leadership and philosophies more than after I finished this book!!

A Book to Treasure in These Times
We (the editors) didn't know how much these words of Ronald Reagan might mean in these times of unusual challenge for ourselves and our nation. These stories (all written in his own hand) about people and their courage in times of unusual challenge, the facsimilies of the original documents that accompany many of them, and the photographs (many previously unpublished) of Reagan at different times in his career provide a perspective on Reagan as a person--and thus another viewpoint on his success as a politician in American life. Some stories (of his) are about his first experience with racial prejudice and how he dealt with it; his favorite jokes; his first jobs.
We think it's not only a treasure of Reagan writings, but a collection that gives us insight into the man who knew he sat where the buck stops but also knew where he wanted it to stop; and how he got to be that man.
Annelise Anderson ... Read more

Book Description

"No athlete performed at a higher level through greater stress than Jackie Robinson."
–Scott Simon

The integration of baseball in 1947 had undeniable significance for the civil rights movement and American history.Thanks to Jackie Robinson, a barrier that had once been believed to be permanent was shattered–paving the way for scores of African Americans who wanted nothing more than to be granted the same rights as any other human being.

In Jackie Robinson and the Integration of Baseball, renowned broadcaster Scott Simon reveals how Robinson’s heroism, firmly planted in the memory of Americans, brought the country face-to-face with the question of racial equality.From his days in the army to his ascent to the major leagues, Robinson battled bigotry at every turn.Simon deftly traces the journey of the rookie who became Rookie of the Year, recalling the taunts and threats, the stolen bases and the slides to home plate, the trials and triumphs.Robinson’s number, 42, is now retired on every club in major league baseball–in homage to the man who had to hang his first Brooklyn Dodgers uniform on a hook rather than in a locker.

TURNING POINTS features preeminent writers offering fresh, personal perspectives on the defining events of our time. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Don't Miss This LIttle Gem!
This little book--small in dimensions and hardly over 100 pages in length--should be on everyone's bookshelf. Whether you remember watching Jackie Robinson play (as I do), or whether he's just a name from the distant past; whether you're white (as I am), or black, or any other race, creed or color; whether you're a baseball fan (like me) or someone who couldn't care less about the National Pastime, Jackie Robinson's story is for everyone.

The only reason I didn't give this book a 5-star rating is that there's really nothing new in it; if you already know the saga of Robinson's integration of baseball you aren't likely to learn a lot of news things about it here. But Scott Simon writes beautifully and movingly and retells this great American story with verve and directness.

I've read that there are professional baseball players today (even black players!) who barely have any idea who Robinson was or what he endured. His story should never be forgotten and this wonderful book will help assure that Robinson's memory endures.

Derivative and amateurish book
This book offers nothing in the way of original research or new conclusions about the integration of organized baseball; it is full of errors, special pleading, and misplaced nostalgia. It also fails to acknowlege its debt to the superior work of others, especially Jules Tygiel (*Baseball's Great Experiment: Jackie Robinson and his Legacy*) and John C. Chalberg (*Rickey and Robinson: The Preacher, the Player and America's Game*). Purchase either of the latter books (or both) and give this misconceived vanity effort a pass.

Perfect read for a Saturday morning
This book is a perfect two-hour read for a Saturday morning after listening to the author on NPR's Saturday Morning Edition. The reader can hear Mr. Simon's distinctive and familiar voice when reading the pages. The book is not intended to be a comprehensive history on baseball's integration or a biography of Jackie Robinson, as noted in the opening pages. Rather, it provides just the right amount of background on Mr. Robinson and Mr. Richey, as well as the context surrounding events. Mr. Simon's notes and examples stimulate readers to learn more about particular people and events. I particularly recommend this book (and possibly the series from the list of forthcoming books) as a quick read for adults and teenagers who desire to read about the people and events that shaped our nation, yet must balance the responsibilities of family, work and community, which may prevent them from reading longer books.

Wonderful book / series
This is the second book I've read in the series (after Columbus in the Americas by William Least Heat-Moon). They are both vivid, concise accounts of extraordinary moments. I came to this book without knowing much about Jackie Robinson. I couldn't put the book down. It's a remarkable story and so beautifully written. I highly recommend it and look forward to others in the Turning Point series. It's a wonderful idea, to get great authors to offer their insights about a particular historic event in a pocket size book.

A Great Introduction to the Career of a Legend
In the annals of baseball history, Jackie Robinson stands among the true greats of the game. He was that rare ballplayer who excelled at hitting, fielding, and baserunning (stealing home became his 'signature' baserunning move). But Jackie Robinson was more than a great ballplayer; he was a pioneer. He endured overwhelming racism and even death threats, and became an icon for the civil rights movement along the way. Simon vividly describes the tense atmosphere of Robinson's first games in the majors, and describes how some of Robinson's own teammates were afraid to stand next to him for fear of gunshots. The author has written an insightful and enjoyable account of Robinson's breakthrough into the major leagues. Definitely recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

Early in 1944, a medical examination of Franklin Roosevelt revealed that he was dying. The war was still not won, and the fourth term campaign was just around the corner. For those and other reasons, the White House physician chose to hide the condition of the president. After extensive research, Matthew B. Wills answers many questions about the incapacity of President Roosevelt during this time. He assesses the effect the president’s failing health had on his ability to perform his elected role. "A Diminished President" opens the door for the reader to see the larger implications of the actions of a few key individuals. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Well written with a fresh perspective.
Illuminating discussion of the relationship between FDR's health and his relationships with others, as well as potential impact on foreign policy. I was particularly impressed with Chapter Seven, "Hull, Roosevelt and the Failure of American Foreign Policy".Well written with a fresh perspective.

A Cover-up That Likely Influenced World Events
FDR died in 1945. Immediately thereafter, his medical records disappeared from the Navy files, never to surface again. Admiral Ross T. McIntire, FDR's personal physician for twelve years continuously denied FDR's health problems and, in fact, wrote a book in 1945 assuring the public that the President never had any serious heart condition. He clearly withheld information about FDR's health and, thereby, misled the American people. The truth came out in 1970. The evidence of secrecy and cover-up is there for all to see. FDR was a sick man for years, and, particularly, in 1944, when he attended the Teheran Conference. He did not fully consult with Churchill and did not stand up to Stalin's demands. Fifty-eight years after the fact we learn how the irresponsibility of one man, Admiral McIntire, likely influenced the aftermath of World War II. Mr. Wills leaves us to speculate how many lives would be different today and what ways these lives could be different. Could a cover-up of this magnitude happen again?
Mr. Wills has written an engaging history full of drama building to an inescapable conclusion that in 1944-1945 FDR was a very sick man who was not able to reprsent the ideals of the American people to the best of his ability. It is authoritative and well documented. A DIMIMISHED PRESIDENT, FDR IN 1944 is highly recommended.

Couldn't Put It Down
Matthew Wills' book "A Diminished President - FDR In 1944" is outstanding.It is well researched and documented and brings to light little-known facts that clearly demonstrate that President Roosevelt was, in fact, a diminished President during the last months of his life.This may have led to some fateful decisions and actions that impact our Country even today.While the book presents many historical facts, Will's style is crisp and reads like a mystery novel.Once I started, I couldn't put it down.All who are interested in this period of our history must read this book; and, those who have not had any earlier interest could be highly enlightened and entertained.I heartily recommend the book. ... Read more

Book Description

This is the story of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt and the influence their summer home on Campobello Island had upon them. It is a personal history that examines the Roosevelts' background and traditions and explores their public trials, tragedies, and triumphs, as well as the frustrations and disappointments of their private lives. Campobello played a vital role in the formation of character for both Franklin and Eleanor, and provided them with physical challenges and emotional solace. It was at Campobello that Franklin was felled by polio, the most defining event in both their private lives and public careers. This story is peppered with anecdotes, personal letters, and the reminiscences of the aides, friends, and family who played important roles in their lives. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Move Over, Stephen Ambrose
This is a well-researched and well-written glimpse of one of the most famous and influential couples of the 20th Century. It reads extremely well while casting new light on two already-much studied lives but from an entirely new perspective. Jonas Klein proposes that FDR and Eleanor were in some measure defined by the Campobello experience and makes a credible case for it.

Before picking up Beloved Island I had just finished reading one more of Stephen AmbroseÕ books on World War II and, quite frankly, had tired a little of the rhythm and predictability in his technique of stringing together many individual Òoral historiesÓ to create a coherent whole. He does it very well, of course, but Jonas Klein does it better. Working mostly from snapshot detail in correspondence, I presume, Klein succeeds in portraying the larger portraits of personality, emotion, relationships, and other intangibles that make figures from history what they really are.

Though not quite a Òone sittingÓ experience, this little book leads us gently to further thought and deeper understanding about Franklin and Eleanor. ItÕs a good book.

Exceptionally well researched & well-written
Beloved Island: Franklin & Eleanor And The Legacy Of Campobello examines how the Roosevelt summer home on New Brunswick's Campobello Island (a remote Canadian location) had a significant physical and emotional influence on their lives and the events of their day. While acknowledging the Roosevelt's' traditions and background, Jonas Klein presents a fresh perspective on their public trials and triumphs as well as their personal frustrations and private disappointments as showcased by their Campobello residency. It was at Campobello that Franklin was stricken with polio, that Eleanor found peace and refuge from a demanding and unsympathetic world, and that their personal and political relationship as formed in a manner that would serve them both to the end of their lives. Exceptionally well researched, well-written, insightful, informative, and totally engaging biography.

FDR, ER & Campo
I was excited when I first saw this book advertised. Anyone who has studied the Roosevelts knows the fundamental emotional foundation this island provided the family. However, when I began to read the book, I quickly became disgruntled. There was little to no new information, insight or perspective offered. The author seems to mainly cover the same formulaic roads covered before-- early marriage, polio, governor, president, & Eleanor on her own. The only difference was this books focuses on those same paths through the lens of Campobello. The problem, besides offering little new, is this lens is restrictive, rather than encompassing. If you're looking for an introduction to the Roosevelts, this may be a good selection. However, if you have studied this couple with any kind of attention, nothing profound or enlightning is likely to be found here. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In June 1932, pioneering newswoman Lorena Hickok was assigned to FDR's presidential campaign by the Associated Press. To her surprise, she found Eleanor Roosevelt taking special notice of her. As their friendship grew, Hickok's devotion to the future first lady so overcame her scruples that she sent drafts of her articles to the head of Roosevelt's campaign for approval. After the election, the women began the passionate correspondence--cheerful and diary-like on Eleanor's side, and stormy on Lorena's--presented here. As suggestive as these letters seemed when they came to light in 1978, they don't demonstrate conclusively whether the women had a sexual affair, only that they became, for three or four years, each other's "dearest." They kissed and caressed each other and dreamt of a life together away from Washington. What is more significant is that these years marked Eleanor Roosevelt's transformation from a supportive wife to an independent political force, and the letters show Hickok's advice and encouragement to be essential to that transformation. Only with Hickok's support did the first lady gain confidence for her remarkable achievements in race relations and expanded roles for women. Good footnotes supplement the text, but the bland introductory notes can be skipped in favor of the women's story in their own words.--Regina Marler ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Empty Without You is a little empty...
As an avid reader of all things Roosevelt, I was rather disappointed in Rodger Streitmatter's Empty Without You: The Intimate Letters of Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok. The story of how Eleanor and Lorena (Hick) became such intimate friends (maybe even physically intimate) is a fascinating one. Hick was a hard-nosed AP reporter who had a successful 20 year career in a profession dominated almost exclusively by men. In the course of covering FDR's first campaign, she found a kindred spirit in Eleanor. Both women were needy: they both had tough childhoods, suffered humiliations and tragedies, and were deeply wounded by those they loved. They struck up a lifelong friendship, although the intensity of this relationship waned after the first 3 years. During the course of this friendship, they wrote each other almost every day, and sometimes more than one letter in a day. Hick also lived at the White House for some of this time.

What I found so disappointing about Empty Without You is that out of the many thousands of letters that Eleanor and Hick exchanged throughout their lifetime, Hick destroyed a good many of them-especially those letters from the beginning of their relationship when it was the most intense. There are not many surprises here, and those few that allow a peak at their level of intimacy have been extensively quoted in other Roosevelt books. Also, I found that the story itself is rather depressing. Hick gave Eleanor the knowledge and power to recast the job of First Lady so that Eleanor could better achieve her own political agenda. She encouraged Eleanor to give weekly news conferences with only women reporters invited. She also prodded Eleanor to start writing newspaper columns-monthly at first, and then her daily My Day column that ran for 27 years. Finally, Hick suggested that Eleanor write her autobiography before FDR's first term was even finished. At first, Eleanor depended on Hick to help her with her writing. But Eleanor was a quick study and soon no longer needed Hick. Unfortunately, in broadening her horizons, Eleanor had less and less time for Hick. To make matters worse, Hick was forced to give up her newspaper job because of conflicts of interest, and took on a job traveling the country on behalf of FERA to report on the progress of relief programs. Hick missed the career that had brought her great success, name recognition, positive reinforcement and financial security. Hick also suffered from depression and mood swings-especially when her time with Eleanor did not go as planned. Unfortunately for Hick, her ugly and frequent outbursts were an embarrassment to Eleanor and had just the opposite effect: instead of bringing them even closer, Eleanor started to pull away. Still, Eleanor never completely abandoned Hick and did much to take care of her (especially financially) as they aged.

One thing that I did enjoy about Empty Without You are the reports that Hick wrote for FERA. Although she mostly gave snippets of these in her letters to Eleanor, boss Harry Hopkins was correct when he predicted that Hick's well-written reports would in the future become a window on the Great Depression. But overall, there is not much new or enlightening in this book. If you want to know more about the relationship between Eleanor and Lorena, I'd stick with Doris Faber's Life of Lorena Hickok: E.R.'s Friend.

ER and Hick emerge as real women
Eleanor Roosevelt has been an inspiration ever since I was a young girl, a terrific role model for political activists, humanitarians, and women and girls of all ages. But she is often portrayed in biographies (excepting Blanche Wiesen Cook's wonderful recent work) as a cold fish in her personal life. This is one of the reasons that any fan of ER should read these letters. ER is passionate, caring, needy, annoyed - real emotions from a real woman. We also get a look at Lorena Hickok - Hick - beyond the stereotypes, as a woman deeply in love and troubled by the lack of an exclusive relationship.

One problem I have with the book, though, is not letting whole letters speak for themselves, revealing more of the political discussions that seem to have been a big part of both women's lives and their attraction to one another. Were they lovers? They were certainly "in love," and regardless of where they drew the physical line, this book reveals foremothers any woman, lesbians included, should be proud to claim.

True Friendship
If only we all could find one good friend as they found each other. I enjoyed the book very much. Well, written and organized to chronicle Mrs. Roosevelt's life behind the scenes

ER will always be one of my heroes
Without citing the necessity to comment affirmatively or negatively to Mrs. Roosevelt's sexual preferences, I applaud her passion, her candor, and her immense capability to love; in spite of all the foul balls thrown her way by those closest to her. I believe that through all of the personal drama she was obliged to endure, she still saw the cup as half full. Mr. Rodger Streitmatter upholds the dignity of the First Lady.

I must say, however, Ms. Hickok left me a little cold. I do not think their relationship could endure in this day and age, even as we seemingly embrace a more open view of bi and homosexuality. Lorena, on her emotional rollercoaster, would have been a considerable liability for anyone of Eleanor's public stature.

Fascinating reading
Those who denies the strong sexual overtones in these letters must be repressed or absurdly committed to the idea that Eleanor Roosevelt had to have been unequivocally heterosexual. Never mind that by the time she met Hickock, her physical relationship with FDR had been dead for over a decade, not to be revived. Had these letters been penned by a man to a woman, there would be no fuss, but because we're dealing with two females, the fur flies.

Eleanor and Hick loved each other, that's patently obvious from the letters. To me it seems quite apparent there was a sexual relationship as well... so what? FDR had Lucy Mercer in the 1910's and Missy LeHand was his "companion" from 1922-1940, but Eleanor should be relegated to permanent "lonely" status?

Even if you don't care about the gossip-y element of this book, it's moderately interesting from a social perspective, particularly if you are interested in 1930's history or mores. There are remarkably few references to Franklin Roosevelt in the correspondence, which might speak volumes for Eleanor's priorities at this time.

An interesting book, well edited and entertaining. ... Read more

Book Description

This work contains the heretofore unpublished memoirs of Xaverian Brother Gilbert (a.k.a. Philip F. Cairnes), who is generally credited with being the mentor who steered the Babe to his first professional contract. Ruth was raised by the Xaverian Brothers, a Catholic religious order, at St. Mary's Industrial School from 1902 (when he was only 7) until 1914.These reminiscences begin with Babe Ruth's departure from St. Mary's and concentrate on his early playing years. An historical introduction by the editor of these memoirs, Harry Rothgerber, details the history and relationship that existed between this organization of Catholic educators and the man who was to become the most influential baseball player and greatest slugger who ever lived. Brother John Joseph Sterne, the book's forewordist, recounts a St. Mary's band fundraising trip in which they accompanied the Yankees through the American League cities at the end of the 1920 season. Several heretofore unpublished photos from the Xaverian Order complement the text. ... Read more

Book Description

"One of the most revealing documents of the Reagan years." --The Wall Street Journal ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Funny, Informative and Insightful
Lyn Nofziger was part of Ronald Reagan's hard-core conservative inner-circle since before the time Reagan was governor of California. In this book, Nofziger provides historical insights that help us understand the Reagan we knew; as well as to reveal to us a side of Reagan we never knew. Nofziger writes about the good times as well as the bad and shows how the Reagan Team bonded and evolved over the years. It's a fascinating recollection from a man who not only was there, but who knew Reagan intimately. Nofziger's memoirs provide the reader with a greater insight and appreciation for the man we called The Gipper. The end of the book is somewhat disheartening as it reveals the demise of the inner-circle during Reagan's second term as President. As someone with a romantic view of the Reagan Era, it was eye-opening to discover how badly the Reagan Revolution was undermined from within. But, you have to be willing to accept the good with the bad. And this book will most definitely give you both. A must read for all Reagan fans. Oh, and Nofziger is as funny as hell.

Highly entertaining
Nofziger is not the hilarious donnybrook that Ed Rollins' book covering the same eras is, but it's more circumspect, more low-key, and less emotional. But it's emotional enough, and it's occasionally very funny too. Especially valuable is the inside information on Reagan's unsuccessful 1976 run. Like Rollins, Nofziger believes that Reagan's executive style of management (i.e. knowing his place) was a great strength, but his remoteness and inattention to detail also led to the appointment of the people (Baker in particular) who undermined his conservative philosophy and shunted his key advisers (e.g. Meese). This directly led to the ineffective second term and the Bush years. Thus the "revolution" was largely DOA. Nofziger is one of the good guys in politics. Honest and not self-aggrandizing. If only there were more of him in Washington. He maintains a site out at lynnofziger.com. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent balance
This Biography of Roosevelt is highly recommended!It offers a good exploration of the Presidential years and the political moves any President must balance when dealing with the Senate, parties, etc.It also deals with the shaping of the man before the Presidency without overwhealming the coverage of his administration.Miller's bio. focused far too much on his personal life and left you wondering what really happened during his White House years.Harbaugh balances the two areas expertly, and leaves the reader with a complete understanding of both.

Great biography!
This biography is highly praised by Roosevelt buffs because it is precise, complete and well balanced. It is in the same league as the Edmund Morris books and Nathan Millers fine work on Theodore Roosevelt.

History
This history is educational concerning TR's political and personal life.However, the writing is fairly dry and it is not very inspiring. ... Read more

Book Description

Gouverneur Morris wrote the Constitution of the United States with Madison and is properly known as it’s father.Born into a wealthy household, he slowly and reluctantly joined the American Revolution and became close friends with the father of his country, George Washington. ... Read more

Book Description

A harrowing chronicle of the Roosevelt-Rondon Scientific Expedition through Brazil and Paraguay to map the 950-mile River of Doubt. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Remarkable Adventure
Theodore Roosevelt was a man's man. A New York kid whose taste for adventure was sparked in his boyhood by a dead seal for sale on a Broadway sidewalk. Harvard student, soldier, Rough Rider, youngest President ever and one who survived the assassin's bullet, maverick politician, Nobel Prize winner, hunter and conservationist, and finally the man who, at 55 years old, explored an unknown region of the Amazon river basin. Imagine one of today's former-Presidents undertaking a similar adventure. For six weeks, in 1914, Roosevelt and his party paddled and carried their canoes down a previously unexplored 950-mile river now called the Rio Roosevelt. Men died, boats were lost, food became scarce, dangerous animals and natives were about, fever borne by insects sickened many in the party (and led to Roosevelt's own death five years later). This is the stuff of "Through the Brazilian Wilderness".

Roosevelt's other works, including "The Rough Riders", are better known, and this one is not great literature. Instead, it is a remarkable adventure story by an interesting man. The book is essentially Roosevelt's trip diary, colored by his great enthusiasm for adventure and the natural world. Even before reaching the Amazon, Roosevelt stops at a Brazilian snake research lab that so captures his attention that he writes seventeen pages about it. At all times, he makes careful note of the wildlife he encounters, not quite with the depth of a professional scientist, but with the trained eye of a dedicated and experienced hobbyist. He squeezes in some amusing stories about piranha fish that he heard --and apparently believed. Naturalists of the day killed animals in the name of science, which places in context Roosevelt's joy in hunting and his comments: first on alligators ("They are often dangerous and are always destructive to fish, and it is good to shoot them") and later on conservation ("There is every reason why the good people of South America should waken... to the duty of preserving from extinction the wildlife which is an asset of such interest."). The book is most poetic in its description of animal life, and particularly in registering surprise that the myriad insects are far more pernicious than any of the better-known dangers such as alligators, big cats, or piranhas.

The book's is not perfect, and Roosevelt is not a great author in a literary sense, rather making up in enthusiasm what he lacks in prose and penetrating insight. There is no attempt at political analysis, he simply praises Brazilians as good hosts who have started down the road to democracy. He sees the land he travels through as like the United States of perhaps a hundred years earlier, so there are frequent predictions that a promising location is ripe for development. The limited foray into politics is to praise Positivism, the ideology of the Brazilian military class that emphasized modernity and structure, and that not incidentally justified the many instances of military intervention in Brazilian politics over the years. Finally, the one annoyance is the recurring theme (perhaps a dozen times in all) of the true danger of the journey. Over and over we read that the river has never been charted, that it is truly dangerous, that the explorers are not your armchair-adventurer variety, and that such voyages will necessarily be easier for those who follow in the future. We get that.

Roosevelt was an interesting man, his enthusiasm and taste for adventure are infectious. The book is not a literary triumph, but it is a fun read and an excellent journey through the Amazon

Great Writing, Great Adventure
TR's account of his expedition to explore the River of Doubt shows a lot of the reasons we still admire him. First, he was a serious scientist. He was dedicated to discovering new species of wildlife (and could rattle off their Latin names with the best of them), mapping unknown stretches of river, and observing the ways of foreign lands. We know TR as a physical character and often forget what a highly intelligent man he was.

Second, his writing is greatly under-appreciated. He doesn't breeze over his descriptions of wildlife or the landscape--it's pretty technical stuff--but he does it clearly and concisely. As someone who has labored through countless pedantic textbooks, I took comfort in his words, "Ability to write well, if the writer had nothing to write about, entitles him to mere derision. But the greatest thought is robbed of an immense proportion of its value if expressed in a mean or obscure manner."

Third, despite the above, he could still endure enormous physical hardship at an old age. Battling rapids, hauling canoes, fighting disease, and hunting game, TR had the combination of brawn and intelligence that's seriously lacking in our leaders today, especially the lightweight that now sits behind TR's desk.

This book is also a great window into a time and place forever lost to history. TR's writing projects a clear photo in your mind of undiscovered wilderness and great adventure.

Teddy Roosevelt's Last Great Adventure
As those familiar with his history know, Theodore Roosevelt was truly a unique, gifted and accomplished person. He was naturalist, historian, big game hunter, politician, statesman, conservationist and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize rolled into one. If he had followed the interests and predilictions of his youth, he would have grown up to be a naturalist rather than President of the United States. As a boy he had a vast collection of frogs, squirrels, snakes, birds, insects that he called the Roosevelt Museum of Natural History.

Science's loss was politics gain. However, T.R. never lost his interest in nature. Following his presidency, he set out on an expedition to explore and map unknown regions of Paraguay and Brazil on the 950-mile River of Doubt, a previously unexplored tributary of the Amazon River. The scientific endeavor became an ordeal to test the expedition's courage and stamina as it faced overpowering heat, dangerous rapids, wild animals, devouring ants, endless insects, fever, dysentery and more. The expedition collected thousands of species of birds and mammals, but Roosevelt would die a few years after completing the expedition. Roosevelt admired those who lived life with passion and for what he called "the Great Adventure." This story chronicles one of T.R.'s last great adventures in his typical inimitable style.

An excellent narration of T.R.'s sometimes perilous journey
T.R. was writing was very gradiloquent, and this book really gives readers a good example of this. Read about the journey that ended with T.R. having a river named after him (Rio Duvida renamed to the current Rio Roosevelt), and gave him the sickness that would eventually lead to his death less than five years later. ... Read more

Book Description

The Childhood Of Famous Americans Series

One of the most popular series ever published for young Americans, these classics have been praised alike by parents, teachers, and librarians. With these lively, inspiring, fictionalized biographies -- easily read by children of eight and up -- today's youngster is swept right into history. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Superior reading for children
This biography of Ronald Reagan focuses on his youth/childhood and provides numerous examples of how early experiences influenced later actions. Whether one approves or disapproves of Reagan's politics or presidency, this is one of a series of biographies that can be instructive for children while also entertaining. The reading level is for the average 4-5th grader.

Great Book!
I strongly reccomend this book to parents who would like to share the wonderful story of America's greatest president with their children. This book is great for reading to your kids and discussing with them afterward. The authors of this book do an excellent job of touching on the life of Ronald Reagan, especially his childhood, withou showing any type of bias. ... Read more

Book Description

Before Teddy Roosevelt became famous as a statesman, naturalist,colonel in the Spanish-American War, and twenty-sixth president of the UnitedStates, he was a young boy called Teedie who had wonderful adventures with hisbrother and sister and even started a museum in his attic. But he also struggledwith terrible asthma. Overcoming his illness was the major battle of his younglife . . . and his determination to make himself strong and healthy set thecourse for his amazing accomplishments to come.

First in a planned series of picture storybooks about "turning points" in the lives of the young Presidents, this book is written by the in-comparableauthor of So You Want to Be President? and whimsically illustrated by MatthewFaulkner. ... Read more

Book Description

Pringle’s Pulitzer Prize-winning biography not only chronicles the incidents that shaped Roosevelt’s career but also offers insight into the character and mind of this colorful american president. Index.
... Read more

Reviews (6)

Heavy Handed And Opinionated
Henry Pringle's "Theodore Roosevelt" was one of the first biographies of TR and was written before the passage of time permitted an unimpassioned analysis of his life. Roosevelt scholarship has advanced over the intervening years.

Pringle has a reputation for factual errors. I caught a few statements of his which are consistently contradicted by later biographers. Other biographers display the ability to present the facts, both those favorable and unfavorable to TR, while leaving the reader to draw his own conclusions. With a heavy hand, Pringle supplies his own opinionated conclusions, which were often critical of TR.

TR lived such a full life that any single volume biography has to seem to be shallow. This relatively short biography is no exception. For a biography of TR I would recommend Edmund Morris' "The Rise Of Theodore Roosevelt" and "Theodore Rex" as well as Nathan Miller's "Theodore Roosevelt: A Life". For his early life I would recommend David McCullough's "Mornings On Horseback" (see my Amazon review on each). I would reserve Pringle's work for readers already well versed in TR lore who are seeking a thorough familiarity with TR literature.

Bothersome in its presentation
The first dozen pages of this book promised one of the best biographies I would likely read, when I was quickly disabused of my expectations. Though Pringle ably exposes Roosevelt's political theories and doctrines and their strange inceptions, the presentation of the book tediously presents a few details, then gives Roosevelt's reaction, then a new set of details, then Roosevelt's reaction, ad infinitum. I realize that histories and biographies are usually chronologically linear, but even though Pringle runs forward or looks back as it suits the situation, the whole presentation seems a tedious catalog of action and reaction.

A great intro to TR and the world around him
Pringle's biography of Theodore Roosevelt provides a fascinating chronicle of TR's many achievements. The author describes the accomplishments and contradictions of his subject without undue criticism or commendation. From his early years at Harvard and the NY state legislature, through the final days of his life, Roosevelt was passionate, opinionated and, above all, focused on achieving his goals. Pringle describes these events in great detail, from the well known (the Spanish-American War, the Panama Canal, anti-trust efforts) to the more obscure (simplified spelling, the Venezuelan debt dispute, the ill-fated Progressive party). After reading this book, you'll have a solid understanding not only of Roosevelt the man, but also of the world events that shaped history for the next hundred-plus years.

Pringle's book is enjoyable to read, in part because it includes numerous excerpts from TR's letters and speeches. The intelligence and wit of Roosevelt's writing feel like a breath of fresh air in today's world of banal CNN sound bites. You might be disappointed, however, by Pringle's lack of explanation for Roosevelt's controversial side. Namely, TR's racism and imperialistic hankerings may seem at odds to how a US president should behave, even in turn-of-the-century America. To boot, Pringle devotes only passing notice to the irony of TR's 1906 Nobel Peace Prize, a controversial accolade considering Roosevelt's jingoistic tendencies. Although some may consider Pringle's "Theodore Roosevelt" to be a definitive reference book, I'd argue that this biography is an excellent introduction, which should be supplemented with other works that pursue TR's controversial side in greater detail.

A comprehensive look at TR from a revisionist perspective
Pringle wrote the seminal book on TR back in the 1930s. It is in print again and is a splendid one volume reference on TR. I have read Morris' hero worshiping " The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt". Morris book is a grand adventure. Pringle views TR's life from the prizm of the political decisions of the impulsive but also calculating TR. Pringle wrote this book a generation after TR's death and much of the book reflects a disillusionment with TR . The author is quite clever in his writing and begrudgingly warms to TR. This is a book about TR warts and all. It also reflects TR's growing maturity as he became President. It is superbly written book and covers his entire life. I believe it is closer to the truth than the recent spat of romanticized TR books that have made TR more of a icon than a man with both strengths and weaknesses. TR brings the US kicking and screaming into its leadership role in the world in his presidential years. Thankfully, this fine book gives us a first hand look at TR as he really was.

Excellent political biography!
This review is of an older edition of the book. Pringle's biography is woefully overlooked in the great tide of T.R. biographies that flood the market. This biography does lean a little heavy on the political aspect of Roosevelt's life, but it does cover the salient parts of his personal life before his entry into national politics. This is the most in depth political biography I have found. This book does an excellent job of relating the various concerns that influence Roosevelt's Presidential decisions. That is refreshing in the face of other biographies (like Nathan Miller's) that have not done as well addressing the Presidential years. Isn't that the reason we all read about Theodore Roosevelt anyway? ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Unprecedented Look at Roosevelt
Gallagher explains eloquently the impact that poliomyelitis had on Franklin Roosevelt and the various aspects of his life. The crowning achievement is the wealth of photographs (18 in all) that depict the struggles and tribulations being crippled cost Roosevelt. The photographs might stand alone as a photo essay to explain the various ways Roosevelt moved around and tried as best he could, with the effort of his team, to hide his affliction from the general public. The two known photographs of Roosevelt in his wheelchair appear in this book, which male this book a gem in any Roosevelt researcher's collection.

Aside from the photographs, Gallagher cleverly explains in the text the circumstances of poliomyelitis, the various treatments Roosevelt underwent initially and ultimately the course of therapy at Warm Springs, Georgia. The necessity to hide FDR's debilitating degeneration from the average voting public was so prominent and preeminent in Roosevelt's mind that he went to great lengths to do so, including walking on his own with heavy steel braces or leaning on his two strong sons. This work is a masterful examination of Roosevelt and his administration's, both as Governor of New York and President of the US, efforts to erase forever polio from the public perception of Franklin Roosevelt. ... Read more

Amazon.com

He was a big man, and The Babe is a big book--a four-bag celebration of the Bambino,the greatest baseball legend of them all. Lawrence S. Ritter, author of The Glory of Their Times, the classic oral history of America's national pastime in the first decades of the 20th century, weaves together a workmanlike, often elegiac, narrative of Babe Ruth's life and career. But it is the all-star collection of photos--of the Babe in action, the Babe just hanging around being the Babe, and rare Ruth collectibles--that sends this volume where the Babe used to send high fastballs: out of the park. Hank Aaron, whosent a few out himself, pens a warm introduction to the idol whose career home-run record he ultimately surpassed. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The Babe would have been proud.
If you like baseball, you will love this book. It's a "coffee table" type book that every true baseball fan needs in his/her sports library.

It comes with a Homerun Derby CD. For me, the game was a little hard to figure out because the directions are a little unclear. I'm working on it and will master it one day.

Enjoyed the book. Easy reading with great photos. ... Read more

Book Description

The Essential Ronald Reagan covers the former president's birth and childhood in Illinois through his years in Hollywood.It delves into his growing involvement in politics, culminating in his election as governer of California, his two terms as president. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Absolutely Essential
This book is essential for anyone wanting to learn about Ronald Reagan--especially those who are reading about him for the first time. It is a favorable treatment of the man and his legacy, and portrays him just as he was, humorous and yet serious in regards to the things that were important. Essential? Absolutely. ... Read more