Eleanor Roosevelt

Library Journal

Though there are numerous books on Eleanor Roosevelt, her personal odyssey from ugly duckling and rejected wife to the savvy ``First Lady of the World'' exercises its own endless fascination; and her life reflects the major social and political movements of the 20th century. Scharf's book emphasizes breadth rather than depth, but it does an excellent job of encapsulating Roosevelt's life in a compassionate, questioning, and lively manner. Libraries already top heavy in material on her can pass; recommended for those looking for a short, well-written biography that never veers into hagiography. Ann H. Sullivan, Tompkins Cortland Community Coll. Lib., Dryden, N.Y.

School Library Journal

YA Few women in American life have exercised the power and influence of Eleanor Roosevelt without ever running for elective office. And few persons continue to hold as strong a place in the emotions of Americans 25 years after their death as Eleanor Roosevelt. This new biography explains Roosevelt's hold upon the consciousness of Americans. It is refreshing to read of the accomplishments of her life without dwelling upon her much publicized tragedies. Young adult readers deserve to have available this well-researched, beautifully written, and moving tribute to a truly great American and ``First Lady of the World.'' Mary A. Williams, Harris County Public Library