Book Description

People often associate Theodore Roosevelt with the Rough Riders, the volunteer cavalry regiment that he led to vic-tory in 1898 in the Spanish-American War. But the list of accomplishments of the 26th president of the United States is long: besides holding office as vice president, governor of New York State, and police commissioner of New York City, he was a writer, cowboy, historian, conservationist, and soldier. Above all, he ushered the United States into the ranks of the world"s great powers. His incredible exuberance and strength continue to inspire, and his progressive views on government and corporate corruption, labor laws, and feminism are still relevant today.

Award-winning author Betsy Harvey Kraft has written a sweeping biography that draws from diverse sources, including Theodore Roosevelt"s journals, correspondence, and autobiography, as well as the memoirs of family and friends and newspaper reports of the time. This excellent book also features archival photographs, political cartoons, and drawings by Roosevelt himself. Endnotes, bibliography, index. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great, accessible biography of our 26th president
The choice of Teddy Roosevelt is a good one to get kids to read about this raucous period of American history. Well illustrated with period photos and cartoons, the text is engaging and fast-paced. Perfect gift for that young teenager on your list, I can't wait until my daughter is old enough to read this!

He Tackled the Status Quo
Even the Presidency did not take the boy out of Theodore Roosevelt. A century ago, when Washington was a simpler place, TR engaged in such youthful sports as wintry swims in the Potomac. President Roosevelt showed similar courage in tackling financial tycoons or forcing Spain out of Cuba. TR was a significant figure on the political stage from the 1880s through World War I. He was an active, early conservationist. Betsy Kraft's well-paced, illustrated biography will engage young (and older) adults. The author brings this man and his era to life. Public libraries and high schools should find it valuable. ... Read more

Book Description

Poised at a strategic point in the emergence of modern America, Theodore Roosevelt entered the White House just as the twentieth century opened. Following a succession of weak presidents who proved themselves incapable of dealing seriously with the novel problems and responsibilities created by industrialization within the country and by imperialism in the world outside its boundaries, Roosevelt was uniquely qualified by training and personality to reverse the trend. His patrician background, his education, and his grasp of the national and international situations set him apart from the men he succeeded in Washington. His vigorous, colorful, forceful personality attracted widespread public attention and deep affection. As a result, he was able to face problems that his predecessors had avoided. In matters like labor and conservation, Roosevelt established fruitful precedents for the country. In others, diplomacy for instance, he made false starts. But in any case, he illuminated the questions with which his successors would have to deal. Legend, or near legend, Roosevelt dominated an era in American life. An examination of his multiple careers throws light on the problems of transition of the U.S. from the nineteenth to the twentieth century. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

It's an acceptable, short recitation of Roosevelt's life.
It's available from Waveland Press, Inc., I recently purchased a new copy of it. ... Read more

Book Description

COLONEL ROOSEVELT

Theodore Roosevelt Goes to War, 1897 - 1898

His celebrated charge up San Juan Hill made him an American icon—a roughshod, take-charge leader in the glorious service of his young and ambitious nation. For Theodore Roosevelt, it was a defining moment, the scene with which he would become most often associated. And, as H. Paul Jeffers shows in this lively new account, the now-legendary episode not only made the future president's political career, it took center stage in a "splendid little war" that Roosevelt himself orchestrated almost single-handedly.

Colonel Roosevelt is an exciting and thoroughly captivating portrait of a man and a country at a crossroads. The Spanish-American War of 1897-1898 was the shortest conflict in American history. Yet it played a pivotal role in propelling the United States onto the twentieth-century world stage—along with the man whose nationalistic and military ideals were most responsible for bringing it about. With his keen eye for characterization and rich period detail, Jeffers captures the spirit of a newly industrialized nation with dreams of the spoils of empire hitherto reserved for her European rivals, a country flexing her newfound muscles.

No man more clearly exemplified late nineteenth-century notions of manifest destiny than Theodore Roosevelt. And no man was more willing to wage war to fulfill them. As Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Roosevelt dreamed of a massive two-ocean navy capable of exerting American influence around the world. Going to war against an aging Spain, with Cuba as the prize, seemed the perfect way to make his dream come true.

The events and colorful personalities of this crucial period come to vivid life in Colonel Roosevelt, from William Randolph Hearst and Henry Cabot Lodge, to Richard Harding Davis and Stephen Crane. Here, too, is the personal side of Theodore Roosevelt, much of it revealed in his own words. It is a candid glimpse of the blunt man behind the historic figure, relishing the swirl of international tensions he so vigorously helped to stir.

From the parlors of power in Washington to the dust-choked backroads of Cuba, from the epic sea battles around the Philippines to the legendary charge up San Juan Hill, this vigorous account of Teddy Roosevelt at his finest hour is compelling biography and fascinating military history.

"I had very deeply felt that it was our duty to free Cuba, and I had publicly expressed this feeling; and when a man takes such a position, he ought to be willing to make his words good by his deeds. He should pay with his body." —Theodore Roosevelt

It was the shortest conflict in American history. Yet, for the pugnacious, saber-rattling "jingo" who helped bring it about, the Spanish-American War of 1897-1898 would be the stepping-stone to notoriety, a governorship, and, ultimately, the presidency. A rousing portrait of a fascinating period and a one-of-a-kind man on his way to becoming a legend, Colonel Roosevelt is H. Paul Jeffers's brilliant follow-up to his critically acclaimed Commissioner Roosevelt. The power plays, political intrigues, and military adventures of a century ago unfold with all the drama and impact of the Rough Riders' famous charge up San Juan Hill. Colonel Roosevelt is the unforgettable tale of how one man's personal ambitions and dreams of destiny propelled a young nation to prominence and a new era.

Praise for COMMISSIONER ROOSEVELT The Story of Theodore Roosevelt and the New York City Police, 1895-1897

"A lively, entertaining, and well-researched portrait of a zealous reformer during the historic crusade that successfully launched his ca reer in government." —Booklist

"Jeffers captures the public-spirited TR in all his pugnaciousness." —Publishers Weekly

H. PAUL JEFFERS is the author of over twenty books, both fiction and nonfiction, including Commissioner Roosevelt: The Story of Theodore Roosevelt and the New York City Police, 1895-1897 (available from Wiley), and Bloody Business: An Anecdotal History of Scotland Yard. He lives in New York City. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Teddy Roosevelt: Man of Action and First Modern President
Most of the juvenile biographies of Theodore Roosevelt begin in media res, with a defining moment in T.R.'s history.The usual choice is when T.R. became the youngest President in history when William McKinley was assassinated, but Zachary Kent picks instead the Rough Riders storming San Juan Hill during the Spanish American War.The choice is significant because Kent presents the life of Theodore Roosevelt as being that of a fighter who charged through life the same way he charged up San Juan Hill.But Kent also argues throughout this juvenile biography that Roosevelt's progressive politics helped thrust the United States into the modern age.

Kent divides T.R.'s life into nine chapters: (1) "Get Action!" introduces Roosevelt as a Colonel in the Rough Riders storming San Juan Hill; (2) A Fighter is Born looks at his childhood, where the young boy suffering from asthma transformed himself into a boxer, and how his early political career went off track following the tragic day when both his wife and mother died; (3) The Four-Eyed Maverick tells about both T.R.'s life as a rancher in the Dakota Badlands and his return to politics after his second marriage; (4) From Police Department ot Navy Department looks at the two jobs where T.R. made his reputation in New York and Washington; (5) Rough Rider to the White House covers how T.R.'s experiences in Cuba got him elected governor of New York and his reputation put him on the national Republican ticket in 1900 as the Vice Presidential candidate.Young readers will be surprised to learn he did not want the position, and it was only an ironic twist of fate that made him President.

Kent covers the Roosevelt presidency in a pair of chapters: (6) Wielding a Big Stick details how T.R. invigorated the White House as he filled out McKinley's term, continuing to lead "The Strenuous Life" and advancing the Progressive cause, from inviting Booker T. Washington to the White House to breaking up business monopolites; (7) Adventurous President deals with the 1904 election, when T.R. was elected to the White House in his own right, and his focus shifted to foreign affairs, most notably settling the Russo-Japanese War (for which he would be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize) and visiting the construction of the Panana Canal. If they have been working through the Presidents in chronological order (I have been going alphabetically), young readers will note that with T.R. we have what they would recognize as being the first "modern" President.

This volume is also rather unique in the Encyclopedia of Presidents series because it is one of the view that devotes two chapters to the life of its subject after leaving the White House: (8) Bull Moose Candidate relates how T.R. was unhappy with his hand-picked successor, William Howard Taft, and ran the most successful third party campaign in 1912 on the Progressive ticket, finishing second to Woodrow Wilson; and (9) The Lion is Dead covers T.R.'s active retirement exploring Brazil and his dterioration after his youngest son Quentin was killed during World War II.

The volume is illustrated with black & white historical photographs, along with a few choice political cartoons (including the famous one of Roosevelt and his "big stick").As always, the production values look rather outdated, but the Encyclopedia of Presidents volumes are as informative as any set of juvenile biographies of the Presidents available.Kent has once again authored an above average entry in the series because of the dual focus on both Roosevelt as a man of action and how his policies turned the U.S. into a modern nation and a world power. ... Read more

Book Description

Edith Kermit Carow grew up in New York City in the same circles as did Theodore Roosevelt. But only after TR's first wife died at age twenty-two did the childhood friends forge one of the most successful romantic and political partnerships in American history. Sylvia Jukes Morris's access to previously unpublished letters and diaries brings to full life her portrait of the Roosevelts and their times. During her years as First Lady (1901-09), Edith Kermit Roosevelt dazzled social and political Washington as hostess, confidante, and mother of six, leading her husband to remark, "Mrs. Roosevelt comes a good deal nearer my ideal than I do myself." ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Captivating
During a recent visit to Sagamore Hill on Long Island (the home of the Roosevelts), this book caught my eye because it gave a such a different perspective of Roosevelt history. Though I am now only about 3/4 of the way through, I cannot say that I am at all disappointed. It reads like a novel and is extremely well written. I cannot put it down. While it is true that there are other books which better cover the details of TR's colorful political career (Sylvia J. Morris's husband's books accomplish this) and even TR's earlier family history (try "Mornings on Horseback" by David McCullough for this), this book is must for those interested in the story of Edith and her remarkable family. Also, the story does have a great deal of romance and some poignancy -- particularly in the death of TR's first wife, Alice Lee, and his troubled relationship with his daughter, Alice's namesake. I agree with one of the other reviewer's -- Edith's story would make a marvelous motion picture.

Why hasn't there been a movie made on her romance/marriage?
Her lifelong romance with Theodore Roosevelt is certainly the stuff that films (or at the very least, TV movies) are made of. She never stopped loving the brilliant, bellicose, captivating, exasperating "boy" she had fallen in love with at a very young age. She helped mold him into a man. How two strong-willed persons of such opposing personalities thrived in such a successful marriage is even more reason why their story in film would be interesting. If Edith, certainly one of the most private historical figures in our country's history, had not the burned thousands of letters from her "Teedie"/Theodore (wishing to keep their lifetime of thoughts and passions to themselves), their romance might be up there with John and Abigail. TR also destroyed most of the letters from "Edie"/Edith because of Edith's constant pleading to him to do so.

What has survived through thousands of letters that friends and relatives did not destory and through Edith's 40+ years of private diaries (left to her daughter Ethel) is a portrait of a iron-willed, intelligent, passionate lady who survived many family crises and lived through enough U.S. political history for a couple of high school textbooks.

She was often the mother AND the father of her large household of children and pets as TR would often leave to go on hunting trips, safaris, and political campaigns. She ran the household in every area mostly because she had to get control of the family finances. (TR almost had to sell Sagamore Hill before he married Edith because he had lost so much of his inheritance in the Badlands. His older sister helped him get through some lean financial years.)

But, she knew that he would always return to her bed and to no one else's. She often looked down at her sisters-in-law, nieces, and female friends who had married "safely" and did not have a passionate, romantic partnership such as the one she shared with TR. In many ways she was as contradictory in her beliefs as her husband. She was certainly Victorian in her moral strictures, yet one of her closest confidants and friends in the later White House years was the not-so-in-the-closet homosexual chief military aide to her husband (and this gentleman, Archibald Butt, would later help many of the Titanic's passengers to safety before he perished).

One of the most poignant chapters in the book deals with the sons getting ready to go off to fight in the Great War. Quentin, her baby, is eighteen and falling in love with the daughter of one of the anti-Roosevelts, the Whitneys. Edith and TR are concerned with their son falling in love with one of the "plutocrat" Whitneys. However, once they meet Flora they fall in love with her and take her into their family as one of their own. Quentin has to leave the safe environs of Sagamore Hill and the Long Island air training centre and be shipped off to Europe. The elder Roosevelts try to get passports for themselves to travel with Flora so that Flora can marry Quentin in Europe. They can't get passports to travel overseas during the war. Quentin is shot down over France, and TR & Edith have to break the news to her at Sagamore Hill. Flora would remain close to some of the family members until she died many years later.

In short, this is a detailed biography of a great lady, First Lady, wife, world traveler, mother, and grandmother. The vivid detail of the White House during TR's electric eight years at the head of the country is worth the price and time alone. The Kennedys and Camelot had nothing on the intellectual and artisic salon that the Roosevelts inspired and supported during their many years in Washington.

Educational, if not always insightful
I read this biography as a companion to "The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt" and "Theodore Rex" -- partly because I wanted a different perspective, and partly because I wanted to know what happened to Theodore after 1908 and volume III of his biography isn't likely to be out in the near future. In the end I am glad I read the book, and I learned a great deal more about President Roosevelt and his family -- but I think for the serious or dedicated history buff you must also read the aforementioned books to get a more detailed, nuanced view of the Roosevelts' life and the times in which they lived.

Morris's writing varies markedly from section to section, perhaps due to inconsistent editing rather than her own writing.

Lacking
The bio had alot of "facts" but it did not show us how she really felt. There is a snobbish tone to the life story of Mrs. Teddy. I don't think she was in fact that snobbish.

An excellent biography of Edith Kermit Roosevelt
An accurate, comprehensive, and entertaining biography of the great woman. Highly reccomended. ... Read more

Book Description

Edited and Compiled by Doug Phillips

Roosevelt adored his children, four of whom were boys, each of whom he was intent on turning into a man of action. He once commented that his own father was the greatest man he ever knew. His commitment to being the same example for his sons was evident not only in the remarkable globe-trotting adventures on which they accompanied him, but also in the copious letters that he wrote to them, many of which communicated deep truths about manhood, Christianity, and courage.

The Letters & Lessons of Teddy Roosevelt for His Sons contains some of the most interesting letters and lessons that T.R. wrote to his boys and ably demonstrates how fathers can embrace with vigor their charge to raise up manly sons. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

To better know the man
It is easy to take potshots at historical figures as long as they remain impersonal.There are some who would like to call TR a racist or imperialist or some other catchphrase.In The Letters and Lessons of Theodore Roosevelt for his Sons, however, you must get to know the person.Even if you don't agree with everything he did historically, you come away with a sense of who the person was and what his priorities, personality, and sense of honor and responsibility were all about.I don't claim to be unbiased, being a great admirer of the man.The letters only reaffirmed what I believed and made me respect the man all the more.The only minor thing that annoyed me about the book was the editor's mention in the foreword about the "Christian" character of Roosevelt's stances.Those concepts belong to all people of honor, and are not attached to any given religious tradition.
... Read more

Reviews (2)

No one could listen to this.
This is a review of the audiobook only. School is ended and until summer camp starts, my 8 year old daughter has to go to work with me. I stocked up on audiobooks to keep her busy. We both were really excited about the one on Teddy Roosevelt, and started with it first. I set her up listening in the lunchroom and I went back to work. After 5 minutes she showed up in my office saying that there was something wrong with the tape, like it was in slow motion. We played it on another cassette player. We played the other tapes. They're all the same. Lloyd James reads this book one syllable at a time and sounds like a 5 year old that is trying to sound out every word. It goes so unnaturally slow that I thought the cassette spool must be warped. One star is too high.

In A Kid's Words
Teddy Roosevelt, Rough Rider is interesting because it is a biography and history of Teddy Roosevelt as a child. He liked natural history and even stuffed the animals he caught himself - yuck! When he grew up and was president, he was involved in saving park and forest land and wildlife. Yellowstone Park was one of the parks he helped with. He had asthma but he wanted to build up his body to be strong, so he did a lot of sports like boxing and horseback riding. He liked to read and write books. A funny part of the story involved frogs, but you'll have to read it yourself to find out! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Roosevelt as Progressive Conservative
I read this book over twenty years ago and remember it as very well written and particularly illuminating on Theodore Roosevelt's patrician approach to Progressivism. The offers an exciting and concise view of the how Roosevelt established an important, if limited, role for government in American economic life.

It shows how much difference one man can make to both his political party and to his nation. The book was written at a time when the legacy of Teddy Roosevelt was very much in the shadow of FDRoosevelt's new deal. It provides an intense contrast with the current, sorry state of the Republican party and national politics, in general.

Not Blum's best work!
I was very disappointed with John Morton Blum's biography on Theodore Roosevelt. I found it to be poorly written and some chapters were rather ambiguous and confusing.

The first few chapters were good but the book steadily went downhill from there. Theodore Roosevelt was such a lively, exciting character and Blum's book did not bring out any of that excitement. I found the book informative but very boring and dull. ... Read more

Book Description

Before his fiftieth birthday, Teddy Roosevelt had served as a state legislator in New York, undersecretary of the navy, police commissioner of New York City, governor of New York, and two terms as vice president and then president of the United States. He also had run a cattle ranch in the West, had worked as a journalist and editor, conducted scientific expeditions on four continents, raised five children, and enjoyed a lifelong romance with his wife. No wonder he continues to capture our imaginations as he did the loyalty and respect of his own time.

In this thought-provoking book, George Grant explores the life and character of Theodore Roosevelt, one of the most remarkable men of the twentieth century. The qualities that made Roosevelt such an extraordinary leader are examined, as are the exploits that made him so famous. Also emphasized are the spiritual values and faith that he affirmed with such vigor as he walked the world stage with an impact generated by few men in his time. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The story of a young boy who grows up to be President
"Young Teddy Roosevelt," another excellent National Geographic Society volume for young readers, is not just about the story the childhood of Theodore Roosevelt. Actually, less than half the book is devoted to TR's boyhood years. At the end of the book Roosevelt takes the oath of office following the death of William McKinley and became the youngest man ever to become President of the United States (if you are saying "Wait a minute" at this point, let me add that John Kennedy was the youngest person elected President). The point of Cheryl Harness's text and pictures is to answer the eternal question "What kind of kid grows up to become President?" Harness tells the story of how a weak, asthmatic child grew up to lead the Rough Riders, be elected Governor of New York, and nominated as Vice-President.

The emphasis of "Young Teddy Roosevelt" is on biographical details rather than on political philosophy, so young readers will not really get a full appreciation of TR's trademark progressivism. His work as a reformer is touched upon as a young legislator in the New York State Assembly, and seen in his stalking the streets of New York City as the police commissioner and working for a stronger fleet as assistant secretary of the Navy. However, young readers will certainly get a sense of the exciting life that TR led before he entered the White House. The artwork is pretty detailed (look at the end panel of TR's desk when he is assistant secretary of the Navy) and it is easy to appreciate the effort put in by someone who did both the text and the illustrations. By the end of "Young Teddy Roosevelt" Harness has achieved her goal of showing that TR was "way more than glasses and a grin."

A historical biography that children can appreciate.
After scaling down adult historical books to kids' level, it was wonderful to have a beautifully illustrated book that taught something other than dry facts. Cheryl Harness seems to have a knack for history and making the characters feel real and everyday to children. This book in particular was empowering in the manner it dealt with Teddy Roosevelt's overcoming of asthma to continue his nature studies and become a fine soldier and leader as well. His strength and perserverence to become strong and healthy is a real mental lift for any child, but especially appealing to those that suffer from asthma or another illness. ... Read more

Book Description

"My God, what a superior man TR was" Senator John McCain

What do you get when you combine an obsessive reader and writer, a "wild and wooly" adventurer, an astute naturalist, and an ironclad political will? Teddy Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States: a naturalist, a biographer, a hunter and a Nobel Prize winner-among other things. Adventure Classics series editor Anthony Brandt focuses on Roosevelt's robust and adventurous spirit and treats the reader to an engaging assortment of Roosevelt's far-flung adventures across the American West, Africa, and South America.

Theodore Roosevelt was part Francis Parkman, part Lowell Thomas, and one hundred percent spirit of America and master of the printed page. The Adventures of Theodore Roosevelt collects self-contained excerpts from some of his greatest works, including such revealing memoirs as The Rough Riders, the Autobiography, and Through the Brazilian Wilderness, in an effort to capture the many aspects of a great American who was indeed larger than life and his own best "Boswell."

In addition to an introduction that outlines the adventurous aspects of Roosevelt's life, each selection includes a brief introduction by Anthony Brandt that explains the necessary context for each reading. Woven together in this exciting narrative the selections form a chronological account of Roosevelt's lifetime of adventures.

Spanning Roosevelt's entire life, the excerpts in this book include Roosevelt's writings from:

Journals

Ranch Life and the Hunting Trail

The Wilderness Hunter

Hunting Trips of a Ranchman

Book-Lovers' Holidays in the Open

The Rough Riders

African Game Trails

Through the Brazilian Wilderness

The Autobiography of Theodore Roosevelt

Selections from articles in Forest and Stream magazine and Scribners

Selected letters

"I like books of exploration and adventure" Theodore Roosevelt

Book Description

Theodore Roosevelt was hearty, frank, friendly, and bold-a president so popular that many Americans believed they knew him personally.Through the force of his personality and excitement of his adventuring, he wove the presidency into the fabric of daily life as no other president had done. Nearly a century later he is remembered as our most colorful chief executive. In this comprehensive study, historian Lewis Gould uses primary sources and the most recent scholarship to capture the excitement and controversy of Roosevelt's White House years.

Theodore Roosevelt was the first to personalize the modern presidency, Gould argues. He then used his popular appeal to address fundamental, controversial questions: What is the proper role of government in regulating the economy? What is the best relationship between government and the business community? To what extent should the nation pursue a policy of social justice? What are the responsibilities that accompany world power?

Gould brings the big picture into focus with his in-depth examination of the successes and failures of Roosevelt's administration and his sure-footed analysis of Roosevelt's influence on national politics. But he also moves in for close-ups. With a keen eye for family life and personal detail, he reveals not only Theodore Roosevelt the politician, but the private man as well-the man once described as a combination of St. Vitus and St. Paul.

This book is part of the American Presidency Series. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

rip roaring account of the rough rider!
If someone wants to get a one volume account on this exciting presidency, look no further. The author, Lewis Gould, shows how TR developed further the modern presidency, which began under his predecessor McKinley. One of our most fascinating presidents, there's a wonderful chapter on Roosevelt the Administrator. Excellent bibliography too! ... Read more

Book Description

A thorough, illustrated biography discussing the president's childhood, his career, his family, and his term as President of the United States. Includes a time line and glossary. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Too big of a life to be covered in this small of a book
The Our Presidents series is different from most devoted to juvenile biographies of the Presidents in that it does not give an opportunity for the author to begin with a pivotal moment in the President's life that defines their political career.Ann Graham Gaines has to begin with Theodore Roosevelt's childhood, when the young boy who suffered from asthma kept himself busy studying nature.The first chapter ends with T.R. attending Harvard, having turned himself into strong and healthy young man.The second chapter looks at T.R.'s early political career and his life as a cattle rancher in South Dakota.The third chapter looks at Roosevelt the War Hero, starting with his work as assistant secretary of the Navy, his military service as a Colonel of the Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War, and after the war his election as first Governor of New York and then Vice President.This chapter shows the limitations of this format because Gaines has to cover all of that in four pages (over half of which is devoted to pictures).Consequently, she is able to provide the basics of T.R.'s life but not much beyond that.The final chapter looks at the Roosevelt presidency and what he did after leaving office.Again, Gaines has a lot to cover and not enough pages to do anything approaching an adequate job.

Overall this is an excellent series, but the strenuous life of Theodore Roosevelt proves to be too much to be covered in this particular format.The final chapter barely touches on two terms in the White House, time spent hunting in Africa and exploring in South America, the most successful third party campaign for the President in American history, and what T.R. did before an during the First World War.Young readers get little sense of T.R. as a progressive reformer or what where the major accomplishments of his administration, which was one of the more significant ones.The book is illustrated with historical personal and political photographs from Roosevelt's life and career (including a photograph of T.R. as a young man with his brother, sister, and a family friend, Edith Carow, who would become his second wife).There are informative sidebars on T.R. as cowboy, Rough Rider, and conservationist, and the margins are crammed with Interesting Facts (e.g., how he was the youngest person ever elected to the New York State Assembly and what T.R. was doing when he received news of McKinley's death). ... Read more

Book Description

The Roosevelt family, with its rambunctious father and six children, invaded and occupied the White House as no other family has since. Roosevelt was a wonderful father, writing to his children, guiding them, playing with them and loving them as do only the best fathers. Long out of print, these personal letters are warm, wonderfully wise and witty--the best things Teddy Roosevelt ever wrote. Photos. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Delightful!
"A Bully Father" is a delightful insight into a remarkable American family. The first portion of the book is a biographical narrative of Theodore Roosevelt, with a strong emphasis on his family life. The remainder is a collection of letters from TR to his children. Although the letters are identified by topic, they are otherwise left to speak for themselves.

These letters were generally written to his children while they were away at school. The letters are treasures from the Age of Letters. Things which today would be communicated in person, by telephone or e-mail were, in TR's day, communicated and preserved in correspondence. The letters cover a wide variety of topics. Events of daily life of the Roosevelt family and evaluations, favorable and unfavorable, of the child constitute the majority of the letters. Nothing was too small for TR's attention. Horse and carriage rides, playing with children or wrestling with Japanese wrestlers, his tennis partners and White House visitors are all recorded for our enjoyment. TR also used these letters to give vocational advice as well as to comment on public events of the day. TR also expounds on his views on literature and history, as well as his views on family values. The classical literature which he and "Mother" read to the children are mind boggling!

This is a book which is enjoyable to read and also makes you think. TR's relationship with his children and his interactions with them provide a standard against which we can measure our own lives. Read this book and treasure it!

A shining light across the century
Teddy shines through as a true inspiration to all fathers. I read this book, and then "played bear" with my children.

The Essence of Fatherhood
The greatest legacy a father can leave the world is his children. Theodore Roosevelt is more popularly remembered in history as the great Trust Buster and the hero of San Juan Hill, but his greatest contribution was something that until this book, has been overlooked, the impact of a loving and nurturing father on his children.

Reading this book, one gets the unmistakable impression that Teddy Roosevelt was infinitely more concerned about the lives of his children than he ever was about the affairs of the Presidency. Readers are left with the impression that at a moments notice, he would give up everything for the welfare of even one of his kids. What a legacy to leave for history.

In an age where families are under siege and children are becoming more like trophies that are displayed, Teddy Roosevelt's letters to his children shine as a beacon pointing us to what being a parent is all about, raising, loving, and nurturing our children.

What ever happened to writing letters? The art of letter writing has all but passed away. In T.R.'s time reading letters was a family event, something that was eagerly anticipated by the entire family. Today's family is forced to deal with the constant barrage of faxes, e-mails and cellular phones. Family conversation has been reduced to digital bytes rather than meaningful conversation. George Washington may have been the father of our nation, but Teddy Roosevelt had a far more lasting impact, he was a father to his children.

Terrifically humanistic view of one of our great presidents
Here was one of my heroes, doing the un-heroic: Writingletters to his children (usually the older boys, Kermit andArchie). And, what letters they are! Full of advice, careful remonstrance and laughter. Theodore Roosevelt's love of life and his children come through loud and clear. If you are a serious reader of history and/or treasure the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, as I do, get your hands on this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Teddy Roosevelt had poor health throughout his childhood, but that didn't keep him from his love of nature or books. Teddy grew up to be strong and healthy. He became a fearless war hero and the youngest United States president. ... Read more

Book Description

After leaving the White House, Theodore Roosevelt embarked in 1909 on a lengthy African safari/collecting expedition for the Smithsonian that covered hundreds of miles, from Mombasa on the Indian Ocean to Khartoum and Egypt. ... Read more

Book Description

The leadership of Theodore, Franklin, and Eleanor Roosevelt dramatically reshaped the political landscape of our nation, from TR's Square Deal to FDR's New Deal and wartime leadership to Eleanor Roosevelt's pivotal role in the early days of the United Nations. The Three Roosevelts is the first biography to combine the intertwining lives of these three leaders, who emerged from the closed society of New York's Knickerbocker elite to become unwavering enemies of economic privilege and the most prominent American political family of the twentieth century. As Pulitzer Prize- and National Book Award-winning author James MacGregor Burns and acclaimed historian Susan Dunn follow the evolution of the progressive Roosevelt political philosophy, they illuminate how Theodore's vision and example would inspire the careers of his fifth cousin Franklin and niece Eleanor. The Three Roosevelts traces TR's transformation from Harvard-bred socialite to Republican reformer, president, and Bull Moose radical who declared war on the "wealthy scoundrels" and plutocrats. Franklin Roosevelt would continue this crusade as he closely followed TR's example, imitating his career track to the White House. After FDR's death, Eleanor carried on the progressive Roosevelt legacy through personal activism and advocacy, becoming a tireless champion of the rights of women, minorities, and the poor. Insightful and authoritative, The Three Roosevelts is a fascinating portrait of three of America's most forceful leaders, whose legacy is as controversial today as their vigorous brand of progressive politics was in their own lifetimes. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Interesting Writing. Pulitzer Prize Biographer.
This book caught my attention when it received rave reviews from major newspapers, magazines, and critics when it came out (which you can find on the Internet). The writing is interesting and moves along smoothly. James MacGregor Burns knows his material well. He won the Pulitzer Prize for his biography of FDR.

The theme and emphasis of this book is that the three Roosevelts came from very elite and rich of the elite and rich, and yet battled concentrated wealth and attacked the plutocrats. Because of this theme, the book is slightly geared to that perspective.

The book begins with the solemn scene of President Lincoln's funeral procession, which Theodore Roosevelt as a child watched from an upscale residence. The book then shows how Theodore Roosevelt was influenced by Lincoln's presidency.

Despite coming from an elite social class (and young Theodore Roosevelt did view himself as elite), he rejected living only the life of comfortable luxury to do what he thought was right. On the one hand he was rich, educated at Harvard, an intellectual, a writer, mixed with the elite class, and conservative. On the other hand he was progressive, a tough guy, a rough rider, and created government for the benefit of the country as a whole. His intellectualism (masked behind his tough guy persona) brought him into contact with smart ideas of good government.

Theodore Roosevelt acted boldly in some circumtances, while in other circumstances he acted compromising (like a skillful politician.) This was very much in the model of Lincoln who moved at first to only protect the union, seemingly acted in a compromising way (like a skillful politician) until the war seemed to be under control, and then made his masterful move to abolish slavery - a truly magnificent achievement.

Many aspects are Theodore Roosevelt's presidency are not mentioned, such as his vibrant policies in foreign affairs. That is beyond the theme of this book, which emphasizes his very progressive views, which laid the groundwork for the New Deal.

The book shows that Franklin Roosevelt followed the path of Theodore Roosevelt. Like T.R., FDR was born into a rich, elite social class. He entered politics, became under-secretary of the Navy, and then governor of New York. T.R. was in FDR's wedding to Eleanor Roosevelt, who was from T.R.'s family circle. And he used masterful political skills as president like T.R. (and Lincoln), except that FDR took the power and achievements of the presidency to an all-time high, transforming that office into the "imperial presidency."

FDR's presidency is covered fairly well for a concise biography like this. Readers wanting a more thorough understanding should read Conrad Black's "Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Champion of Freedom" or William Leuchtenburg's "Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal."

The book shows that Eleonor Roosevelt was a tireless champion of issues for ordinary people and the disadvantaged. She took up causes that her huspand politically could not. She championed the anti-lynching law when FDR had to be silent or risk losing his political coalition. She astounded a group of impoverished workers on strike by showing up to their gathering to show her support. Here was a well-dressed lady of the highest education and refinement showing up without security to show her support for their cause.

The biography of Eleanor Roosevelt is where the book really shines. There are no other concise biographies of her that rise to this level of excellence.

All three Roosevelts (Theodore, Franklin and Eleanor) made "The Time 100 Most Important People of the 20th Century" list. FDR was ranked the runner-up most important person of the 20th Century. (Einstein and Gandhi were the other two of three people singled out for the top spot).

This enjoyable book is a great way to learn about the three Roosevelts. Just keep in mind that the theme of the book slightly overemphasizes their progressive/liberal aspects and omits other aspects. Recommended, especially for the Eleanor Roosevelt biography.

If you want a superb biography of the Roosevelts that is somewhat concise and a pleasure to read, this book is for you.

In response to the reviewer who states that Burns is a New Dealer and biased, I say that it is not true. Burns is very fair and accurate in this book, and I feel he is very professional and unbiased in his approach to history. For example, I read a newspaper article where he said that Ronald Reagan was a great or near-great president because Reagan was a transformational leader. You would never hear a biased New Deal liberal say something like that. Also, I never read anything to suggest that Burns is a New Dealer. That was a little before his time. He's a historian. His biography of George Washington is also very good.

On the back cover is a glowing review of this book by David Gergen, a Republican and a former advisor to presidents Nixon and Reagan. Also on the back cover are glowing reviews by historians/biographers Robert Dallek, David McCullough, and Blanche Wiesen Cook, who each wrote a book on at least one aspect of one of the three Roosevelts.

"The Three Roosevelts" is simply a terrific book and a great way to learn about the three Roosevelts without having to read three lengthy biographies. I highly recommend it to anyone from high school age and up. It also strikes me as a book that would make a great gift.

FANTASTIC BOOK
This novel was immensely informative and entertaining. I am an English teacher who reads a lot, and I could not put it down.I loved the descriptions of leaders such as Huey Long and Gerald Smith and the isolationist movement.It was also impressive that it was so well-balanced and avoided sensationalism and cheap shots.The authors did not take sides or make quick judgments.You must read this book.My two favorite sections were the descriptions of the New Deal and the class struggle in New York during TR's time.

Politics: Art of the Best Possible Compromise
James MacGregor Burns and Susan Dunn, Democrats by conviction, give an unequal account of the life of three Roosevelts by dedicating most of their biography to Franklin Delano Roosevelt. MacGregor Burns and Dunn show their audience how these three patricians left behind a relatively easy life to descend into the arena of politics. Theodore, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt had to overcome their prejudices about other classes, religions, ethnicities and races to get an understanding of the issues at hand and, at times make, painful compromises to get things done. MacGregor Burns and Dunn explain to their readers that the three Roosevelts have ultimately left an indelible imprint on the psyche of the nation by each setting an example of transformational leadership. On the domestic front, the country has been working on the best possible reconciliation of the respective interests of business, labor and consumers as well as the rights and duties of its respective races and ethnicities. Abroad, the country has weighed the pros and cons of an interventionist policy on a case-by-case basis to safeguard its vital interests, and to advance the cause of a world that espouses the values of responsible democracy and capitalism.

Three Roosevelts "In the Arena"
An interesting fact of American politics - that many of our Presidents came from the "upper class" of American society - is the central premise of "The Three Roosevelts: Patrician Leaders Who Transformed America." In this book, co-authors James MacGregor Burns and Susan Dunn examine the role played in American history by arguably the most influential "patrician" family of the twentieth century - the Roosevelts of New York.

"The Three Roosevelts" is essentially a book containing short political biographies of Theodore, Franklin, and Eleanor Roosevelt. Theodore Roosevelt (TR) became one of our greatest Presidents. Early in life, his sense of "noblesse oblige" caused him to choose a career in politics rather than a life as a member of the wealthy elite.He was elected, in turn, state representative; then governor of New York,as a Republican. He was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy in the McKinley Administration.Three years later, he was elected Vice President of the United States, and succeeded to the Presidencywhen President William McKinley was assassinated on September 14, 1901. His seven years as Chief Executive were some of the most successful of any Chief Executive up to then.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) was a young man who appeared to have little of his cousin Theodore's intellectual acumen, driving ambition, or ideological bent. Franklin followed his famous cousin into politics, but unlike his cousin, Franklin became a Democrat. Like Theodore, Franklin's political career advanced steadily. In rapid succession, he was elected State Assemblyman, then State Senator. By age 31, he had been appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy by President Woodrow Wilson.

In 1921, FDR was stricken with polio, which paralyzed him from the waist down. In 1928, after a seven-year hiatus from politics, FDR was elected Governor of New York. His two two-year terms were highly successful, but by then FDR already had his eyes on the biggest prize of them all: the Presidency.

From 1929 to 1932, during the early years of the Great Depression, FDR proved himself a capable governor ofNew York.By 1932, after three years mired in the Depression, Americans were ready for a change. They elected FDR - the man promising Americans a "New Deal" - as President of the United States.

The vast majority of "The Three Roosevelts" is taken up with an account of FDR's "transformation of America" during the Great Depression. Here, Burns and Dunn portray Roosevelt as a man employing a pragmatic approach to governance... try whatever works! Congress passed a body of legislation that was tremendous in scope. For the first time, the Federal government actively intervened in American life in an effort to make life better for all. The modern welfare state was born.

The third of the "three Roosevelts" - Eleanor (ER) - was an integral part of her husband's political success.After her marriage to FDR, Eleanor remained indifferent toward politics, although she steadfastly supported her husband's political ambitions.As FDR's political career progressed, so did Eleanor's interest in politics. In fact, she was much more of an ideologue than Franklin. Burns and Dunn imply that Eleanor grew to have a tremendous influence on Franklin, possibly pulling him more and more to the left of center during his Presidency.

On April 12, 1945, after thirteen years as President, years which saw the United States struggle out of Depression and stumble into a world war, Franklin D. Roosevelt died.He had helped build the modern welfare state, and had guided the United States to a position of victory in the Second World War.

In the years following FDR's death, Eleanor Roosevelt continued to be a major influence on American politics. Through her nationally syndicated newspaper column "My Day," ER continually interjected her ideas and opinions into the national debate. She was appointed as an American delegate to the first organizational meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. Later she would serve on a UN commission that authored the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. She championed the cause of equal rights for all Americans, and was vocal in her support of the new nation of Israel.

When "The Three Roosevelts" appeared in bookstores in the spring of 2001, I eagerly bought a copy. This was the first book I'd seen in over twenty years that was written by James MacGregor Burns, the historian best known for his two volume biography of the 32nd President - "Roosevelt: The Lion and the Fox" and "Roosevelt: The Soldier of Freedom."

My hope was that Burns and co-author Susan Dunn would provide a penetrating examination of what caused this trio of extraordinary individuals to leave behind the values and traditions of their 19th century "patrician" class, in favor of a progressive and at times socialistic political agenda. It is a question left largely unanswered. "The Three Roosevelts" remains a book very long on biographical information and very short on historical analysis.

The authors show an almost complete lack of objectivity toward their subjects. Burns is well known as a liberal "New Deal" Democrat, and his political bias shows on practically every page. He is ably abetted by Dunn. The result:"The Three Roosevelts"is practically a paean of praise to TR, ER, and especially FDR. Criticisms of the "three Roosevelts" are few, and even those are largely muted.Burns and Dunn's unabashed, gushing admiration of the "three Roosevelts" is annoying, and limits the usefulness of the book as an objective study of these fascinating characters in American history.

What's the common theme?
Trodding the well worn path of assessing the administrations of TR and FDR, and the historical significance of THE THREE ROOSEVELTS naturally means covering some very familiar territory. Teddy the extroverted outdoor adventurer; FDR - complex, secretive, manipulative, and Eleanor the activist. So what's new? The authors offer the view that without the three, the course of 20th century US history would have been vastly different. "The genius of these three leaders lay in their recognizing the needs of the people early on, sensing their political mood, mobilizing their support, and then - above all - acting" The common theme then is that the THREE ROOSEVELTS "charted the course of progressive reform in America." They brought "transformational change".

It's a nice try and the book does explore some possible common motives that drove these three activists. Family, culture and the social environment all have some role to play. As a result the biographical sketches provided on each is sufficiently detailed. The problem with the theme is that the two men - their personalities, the way they governed, and their administrations - were more unalike than similar. TR was somewhat puritanical, FDR something else entirely; TR's side of the family was traditionally Republican while FDR is an icon of the liberal democratic tradition; FDR governed through "brain trusts", of personal followers (the first example of modern-day "cronyism" some argue) wheras TR delegated and relied heavily on a very strong cabinet.

Overall the author's portray all three in very favorable terms, moreso FDR and Eleanor; not as much time is spent on Teddy. Negative views of FDR's latter terms, such as in THE NEW DEALER'S WAR by Thomas Fleming, will not be on these author's reading lists. Contrary to such books, here FDR is not seen as weak or ineffective following his 4th term victory in 1944. ... Read more