Friday, October 17, 2014

PPBF: You're on Your Way, Teddy Roosevelt

Since I am working on a historical fiction picture book relating to Teddy Roosevelt's life, I have been reading quite a few PBs on the topic. I will highlight two. . . one this week, and the other, next. Here is the first:


Author: Judith St. George
Illustrator: Matt Faulkner 
Publisher: Philomel Books/Penguin Young Readers Group
Date: 2004

Ages: 7-12
Genre: Historic Fiction
Themes: overcoming odds, Theodore Roosevelt, childhood of presidents

Inside Flap: "Before Teddy Roosevelt became famous as a statesman, naturalist, colonel in the Spanish/American War, and as the twenty-sixth president of the United States, he was a young boy named Teedie. Teedie had wonderful adventures with his brother and sister and even started a natural science museum in his attic.
But Teedie also struggled with asthma and other illnesses. Overcoming those illnesses was the major battle of his young life . . ." 

First Lines: "Teddie sat up in bed. He coughed and wheezed. He couldn't breathe. Papa ran into Teedie's room. Papa always knew what to do. He paced back and forth with Teedie in his arms. At last, Teedie could breathe."

Why I like this book: Not only are the illustrations "handsome" as the jacket flap describes them, but the author has found a problem needing a solution in young Teddy's life, thus making a perfect story line to link his life with other boys his (then) age. Another perfect example of a well-planned historic fiction picture book.

A list of six other picture books on President Theodore Roosevelt HERE.

Fun Facts about TR HERE.


Teddy Roosevelt's life in under five minutes HERE

After doing extensive research on this US President, it was clear that he was a family man, even 'tho many of the books do not mention it. He counted the relationship with his family as the best part of his life . . .time well spent!

Hope you enjoyed today's offering for Perfect Picture Book Fridays, when we review picture books which we deem worthy of mention.  This concept was created by Susanna Hill, and is a helpful resource for librarians, teachers and parents.  For a list of all books reviewed so far, along with activities to complement them, click here.

14 comments:

  1. Ha ha. My review today is from one of my nfpb resources too! Not only am I learning a lot about writing nf, but I am finding some gems. Thanks for the review.

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    1. Yes, Joanne . . . There are more and more available these days!

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  2. Perfect for me as I await the PBS Roosevelt dvds from the library! And, Matt Faulkner!

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  3. I watched the week-long PBS series on the Roosevelts a few weeks ago. I learned so much and didn't realize their was such a division between the families, that later healed. Teddy was certainly a character and a family man. Will look forward to what you publish on Teddy.

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    1. Thanks, Patricia! I plan to watch that PBS special soon. I've had two or three people rave about it.

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  4. Great to see a blog post from u. I know you've been busy. I've read TEEDIE by Don Brown, and so it will be interesting to see how all these pbs differ. And you have a big job as well, making yours fresh and unique for this popular president! Happy writing!

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    1. Thanks, Tina! Since there are so many PBs on TR, I'll be concentrating on his family. I miss our inaugural Nonfiction archaeology class. Maybe we can have a reunion. 😉

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  5. This one sounds fascinating - and totally relevant to kids today. Thanks for sharing it, Jarm!

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  6. It sounds like a very inspirational read!

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    1. Yes, Barbara, TR is certainly an inspiring character! Thanks for stopping.

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  7. Great pick, Jarm! I think Teddy Roosevelt is one of the most interesting presidents for young people to learn about - so many can relate to the challenges he faced with his health, and it's so cool that he was a naturalist from early on. And it's hard not to enjoy that adage to "speak softly but carry a big stick" :)

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    1. Agreed, Susanna! And I always thought that quote was said by FDR instead of TR. ;-/

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