Although FDR left no
detailed memoir giving the reasons for his political decisions,
Daniels has captured his words and used them in the context of events
to give us a picture of what FDR thought. The book opens with a brief
view of Franklin's early life, but the concentration is on his
political career. While I had read several biographies of Roosevelt,
this is the first one to go in depth about his early office holding.
I found it instructive in light of his later political ideas
including the New Deal.
I also found it
fascinating to read about how FDR was able to control the information
about his polio and was able to act as normal as possible. It's
enlightening to see how he about how he overcame his affliction.
On the positive
side, this is a very detailed, perhaps definitive, look at FDR.
Because there is so much detail from quotes to actions to what other
historians have said about him, it is a sometime difficult book to
read. However, if you're interested in a comprehensive history, this
is it.
On the negative
side, because the book is crammed with historical detail it is
sometimes hard to read. I enjoyed it, but I wouldn't recommend it
unless you're interested in becoming immersed in FDRs life.
The book ends before
the US enters WWII. Although the transitions seems rather abrupt when
you've been following the history closely, it leaves you wanting to
go more in depth into the next segment of FDRs career.
If you enjoy
history, this is an extremely well done book. I highly recommend it.
I reviewed this book
for Net Galley.
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