John F. Kennedy: The Making of a Leader (TFK Biographies Series)

From School Library Journal
Grade 3-5 - These beginning biographies have simple texts set upon beautifully arranged spreads with crisp full-color and black-and-white photographs. The first book introduces Kennedy's family and childhood, health problems, education, military service, literary pursuits, political campaigns, marriage, and fatherhood. The Bay of Pigs invasion, Cuban Missile Crisis, Cold War, civil rights movement, and his assassination are all discussed. Sidebars highlight the youngest presidents, Jackie's White House tours, Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation (a bit of a stretch), Rosa Parks (a "mystery person" inclusion), and "John, Jackie, & Caroline after the White House." The second book describes Roosevelt's childhood; health problems; and love for animals, nature, and learning. The untimely deaths of both his mother and first wife are described as is his subsequent marriage to Edith and their family. Roosevelt's efforts to reform local, state, and national politics are noted as is his military service with the Rough Riders, success in building the Panama Canal, and establishment of 230 million acres of national park land. Sidebars focus on Roosevelt's home museum, Mount Rushmore, his "Big Stick" policy, and the story of the Teddy bear. While the coverage is somewhat superficial, the eye-popping layout of these titles makes them serviceable additions for most collections. - Laura Scott, Farmington Community Library, MI Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Book Description

Young John F. Kennedywas a mischief maker, but he also had a serious side. He cared about people's problems and, with his words, could easily persuade others to go along with his ideas. As he grew up, Kennedy's family decided that he was meant for great things -- the presidency of the United States.

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature - Susan Hepler, Ph.D.

This title in the "TIME for Kids Biography" series uses frequent photographs of the Kennedy family, and newspapers from John F. Kennedy's time in the White House to show young readers his legacy. The era of Civil Rights is dealt with, Jacqueline Kennedy's support of the arts, her personal style, and the substantial renovation of the White House are also included. The essential facts and influences of JFK on American history are covered in interesting prose accessible to the average reader. The lively text is echoed in the inviting format: well-captioned pictures, occasional sidebars, and an interview with Hugh Sidey which gives the reader one person's recollections and opinions as to Kennedy's legacy. A short timeline is included. 2005, HarperCollins, Ages 7 to 11.

School Library Journal