Eleanor

This is a book that details the childhood of Eleanor Roosevelt, a remarkable woman. Eleanor married president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. She was the First Lady of the United States four times. President Roosevelt was elected president in 1932, 1936, 1940, and 1944. The book tells of her growing years, the things she was interested in, tragedies that occurred, and her ideas and opinions. Eleanor would later become a leader... Read Full Review

This 1996 book may well have been the basis for the recent PBS biography of Eleanor Roosevelt on American Experience (look for it on DVD). Barbara Cooney was a splendid, 'medaled' artist but it is interesting to read the books she also authored. Most often remembered are probably "Miss Rumphius" and "Island Boy," but her own story is told in "Hattie & the Wild Waves" and "Emma" is an unusual story of a woman who took up... Read Full Review

"From the beginning the baby was a disappointment to her mother. She was born red and wrinkled, an ugly little thing. And she was not a boy." So begins Barbara Cooney's poignant and inspirational picture book biography of Eleanor Roosevelt's unhappy childhood. Born to beautiful and gregarious parents, this plain, shy, fearful little girl was orphaned at the young age of nine, and spent a lonely and isolated childhood living... Read Full Review

It leaves hope that a child who is rejected for being unattractive and shy can find a person who is accepting and willing to reach out to them. It also reminds me how important a teacher can be to bring out the best in a pupil and prepare them for adult life and self-acceptance.

Barbara Cooney provides a true hero for all of today's children. This beautiful story of Eleanor Roosevelt's early life will serve not only as an introduction to this important lady but also as an inspiration to achieve great things in life.