Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Franklin Delano Roosevelt is one of the United States' most influential presidents. His untiring service to the nation during the Great Depression and World War II brought hope and promise to many Americans. Franklin Delano Roosevelt explores the life of this American hero, as well as the difficult times in which he served as the thirty-second president of the United States.

Children's Literature

Franklin Delano Roosevelt was the 32nd president of the United States, and one of the most memorable of all the presidents. He was born in Hyde Park, New York, in 1882 into a prominent family. His parents were James Roosevelt and Sara Delano. James Roosevelt was a sixth-generation member of the Roosevelts. He had an estate in New York overlooking the Catskill Mountains. Franklin Roosevelt led a privileged life of wealth that bought him an education at Harvard University and several trips to Europe. He graduated in 1904 from the University. By this time, his father had died, and he and his mother became closer than ever. She influenced many of his decisions. But she couldn't undo his wish to marry Eleanor Roosevelt, his fifth cousin. On March 17, 1905, they married. Eleanor became an asset to her husband even though in later years, they grew apart. His entrance into politics began in 1910 as a New York State senator. In 1913, he became assistant secretary of the Navy, and in 1920, he was nominated vice president of the United States. Unfortunately, Franklin developed polio in 1921 and although physically handicapped, he was elected as governor of New York in 1928. In 1932 he became president of the country and was re-elected three more times. He died in 1945 during his fourth unprecedented term. Roosevelt led the country through World War II, an economic depression and years of recovery. Author Elish has done justice to a remarkable man. Photographs and sidebars are included as well as a timeline, glossary, further reading websites and a bibliography. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi