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Customer Reviews (4)

Excellent Biography That's Not Just for Kids
Theodore Roosevelt for Kids is a well-researched biography of the 26th president of the United States.The book begins with a time line of the president's life.The subsequent chapters tell the story of his life from his asthma-inflicted boyhood to his death at the age of sixty-one.

Author, Kerrie Logan Hollihan, did an excellent job not only in researching the life of Theodore Roosevelt, but also in making the book an interesting read.It is definitely not a boring history book.There are plenty of photographs of the president, as well as pictures from that period in history.A fun feature for kids, is the 21 activities that are included.These are easy-to-do, and definitely related to the life and times of Theodore Roosevelt.Some of my personal favorites are making a "pigskin notebook," making a delicious dessert called "Old Insult," and making a campaigne button.

Theodore Roosevelt for Kids is an excellent resource for kids and teachers who are doing research on the president.It is also an excellent book for anyone wishing to learn more about Theodore Roosevelt.I highly recommend this book for readers age nine through adult.

Great Resource
Love the format -- rich with historic details interspersed with photos, illustrations, and practical learning activities. Very readable. A great addition to classrooms and libraries and for those just plain interested in this president.

Excellent Biography of a Great American
This thorough and fascinating story of Theodore Roosevelt kept me turning the pages till the very end. I bought two copies for my nieces - I should have purchased a third for myself.It's a keeper!!!

Amazing Presidential Biography
This book is for young readers, but it's a fascinating read for adults as well. Kerrie Logan Hollihan brings Theodore Roosevelt and his times to life with her well-researched and well-written book. While full of information, THEODORE ROOSEVELT FOR KIDS is accessible and fun to read. Interesting details, well-placed quotes by and about Roosevelt, excellent photos and illustrations, and intriguing sidebars enrich this wonderful presidential biography. The activities are genuinely useful and educational but still appealing to kids. ... Read more

Product Description
Originally published in 1919.This volume from the Cornell University Library's print collections was scanned on an APT BookScan and converted to JPG 2000 format by Kirtas Technologies.All titles scanned cover to cover and pages may include marks notations and other marginalia present in the original volume. ... Read more

Product Description
Theodore Roosevelt's letters are now accessible in this single-volume compendium of the most revealing of the former president's correspondence. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

great selection of letters
worth a read . in fact a great addition to anytheodore roosevelt library

Great Book -- Especially for the Devoted Student of TR
Many excellent historians have taken on the subject of Theodore Roosevelt but, in my opinion, the first rank belongs to Edmund Morris and Professor H.W. Brands.Their knowledge of and passion for the topic of TR is unsurpassed (although their styles are quite different).Brand's "Selected Letters ..." is not really for the casually interested although they will indeed find his widely flung correspondence entertaining and informative.The more devoted student of TR, however, will really find this book interesting and useful.It offers up a more private and candid Roosevelt and, as such, provides some of the context and color behind the large and small historical events of his life.
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Product Description
Each day was an adventure for President Theodore Roosevelt. When he was a kid, he kept turtles in the bathtub and frogs under his cap. As an adult, he was a cowboy, a river explorer, and a big game hunter. Sometimes he would go on marches through deep puddles and icy rivers -- just for fun! TIME For Kids® Biographies help make a connection between the lives of past heroes and the events of today. When Teddy became president, Americans were looking ahead with excitement to the twentieth century. Teddy's spirit and dreams helped make the United States one of the greatest countries in the world. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Impressive Biography for Kids
Reason for Reading: Read aloud to 10yo as part of our history curriculum.

A very impressive biography for juveniles! The publisher's recommended age is 7-9 but this could be read aloud to as young as 5 and is suitable for up to 12. Presented in an easy reader type format with large print, the book would also be perfect for reluctant readers; the text is probably around a level 5.

With the minimal number of pages, this is obviously a brief look at Roosevelt's life but it manages to cover all bases from birth to death with unexpectedly rich content. Written in a main narrative with captioned photographs and occasional sidebars to add extra related information, we not only are given the major details but the interesting tidbits as well. The book is heavily illustrated with photographs and the illustration that lead to the famous Teddy Bear story. Each chapter moves forward in Roosevelt's life so not one aspect gets any greater attention than the others, thus giving his political life and hunting expeditions about equal time.

I'm impressed with the way history has been handled here. Obviously with Theodore Roosevelt the (now) controversial subject of his hunting is going to be at issue, but this biography treats it within its historical context without making any judgmental calls upon the practice and explaining the "sport" from the era's point of view. Then it goes on to explain how this is a thing of the past and what our modern era does to protect animals. This fair, non-revisionist approach to history is important to me and not easily found in books aimed at children.

We both really enjoyed what we found out about Teddy Roosevelt and highly recommend this brief but informative biography.

Boys like this book
Two nephews, aged 9 and 13 enjoyed this.I thought it was well written, although would have liked to see more actual content.

TR
I'm a big TR fan, so it was natural to buy this book. The three stars come from the fact that this is a children's book, so the price is a bit much.

Time for Kids: Theodore Roosevelt: The Adventurous President
An excellent series for kids. We have been very happy with every volume we have purchased.

Time For Kids Books
I purchased several of the Time Life For Kids books and they are great. I have 9-year-old twin boys who are in 4th grade, and they love them! I would strongly suggest these books for any children who are interested in learning more about a specific legend or if learning about a specific legend is required for class work, book reports, etc.
Great price too! ... Read more

Product Description
This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

TOC and good topics
This book is great! It comes with a TOC which you can scroll through, and several stories that I learned about in history class are here in one volume. It has stories about Gen. Washington, Daniel Boone, and several inportant battles of the Revolutionary and Civil war and beyond. Also contains some notable people from history also. I would recommend this...and on top of that it's free! ... Read more

Product Description
By the time he was twenty-five the future president of the United States was already a published author. From The Naval War of 1812 through his four-volumeWinning of the West, Teddy Roosevelt proved himself a master historian...but one must not make the mistake of labeling him a stodgy academic.
The future president was also a great outdoorsman, with such works as Ranch Life and the Hunting Trail and African Game Trails capturing his rough and ready lifestyle.
Theodore Roosevelt was part Francis Parkman, part Lowell Thomas, and one hundred percent spirit of America and master of the printed page.
The Man in the Arena collects self-contained excerpts from some of his greatest works, including such revealing memoirs as The Rough Riders, the Autobiography, and Through the Brazilian Wilderness, in an effort to capture the many aspects of a great American who was indeed larger than life and his own best "Boswell."
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Customer Reviews (2)

Get to Know TR
Reading this book was almost like having a discussion with TR and listening to some of his stories and how he felt about certain issues.Our cultural worldview has changed in many
ways- his racial views specifically stood out as archaic- but much of what he has to say is extremely interesting.

The book is divided into four basic sections: TR's writings about history, his writings about himself, his writings about his adventures, and essays he wrote or speeches he gave on
various subjects.The history section stands out because the focus is totally different.TR is a critic of other historians rather than explaining his own actions or opinions.The memoirs and adventures sections are essentially the same; no real reason to divide them.There is no real info about TR's life given and there are no footnotes to explain some of the more obscure references he makes.There are also no reasons given for the passages that are chosen.

TR himself is a great writer and I really enjoyed his writings. His bulldog personality forces its way through his words and makes it impossible not to appriciate this man.Reading the words of a President who literally led a group of soldiers in Cuba, hunted lions in Africa, and explored a river in Brazil was amazing and I would definitely recommend the selections the editor chose, although I wish the editing was a little more involved so as to enhance my understanding without needing to research specifics.

Excellent Compendium of the Writings of Teddy Roosevelt
What I remember about Theodore Roosevelt is that hilarious comedy, 'Arsenic and Old Lace.' Where the two crazy old ladies and their ready to be committed equally mental, bugle-blowing brother, Teddy Brewster who constantly fantasizes charging up the stairway and digging the Panama Canal in the basement. But, we're talking about the first president of the 20th century and the youngest to ascend the highest office. The real Roosevelt was a very amazing fellow and the most active of any American writer. He grew out of a sickly childhood and built strength through self-made physical fitness. He was the one to save football from extinction in 1905. He was fond of the West African proverb: "Speak softly and carry a big stick, you will go far." With remarkable toughness and smarts he served as a New York legislator, New York governor, police commissioner of New York City, assistant secretary of the Navy, vice president, military colonel who led the Rough Riders in the Spanish-American War, the Indiana Jones of Amazonia and Africa, Nobel Peace Prize winner, a rancher, conservationist and father of six children. Now, that's a busy guy!

In 'The Man in the Arena,' Brian M. Thomsen has collected some of TR's profilic writings including essays and extracts from various books by TR. All are brought together in one handy reference of information about TR's writings. In the 16 extracts Thomsen reveals Roosevelt as a historian, memoirist, adventurer and essayist. 'The Winning of the West' written in 1889 celebrates the American epic of expansion. Research was something Roosevelt was good at. He spent a huge amount of time in archives and took the facts from primary sources only. There are two chapters dedicated to TR's 'The Naval War of 1812,' a technically excellent but, dull book. So any war buff wanting an accurate history of the War of 1812 just refer to TR's book. 'The Rough Riders' chapter gives the reader an account of a vivid and even graphic description of what war really is like, and the bravery and gallantry of early American soldiers. 'Through the Brazilian,' an account of TR and his crew in 1914 explored regions no other white man tread from battling rough terrain, rugged living and hunting game. If only the leaders of today had TR's toughness and intelligence then we wouldn't be in the mess we're in. The 'Washington's Forgotten Maxim' is dedicated to his 1897 address to the Naval War College. His memorable words, "to be prepared for war is the most effectual means to promote peace." The entertaining chapter, 'History as Literature,' TR argues that there is no reason why great history cannot be great literature with a great appreciation to Lucan and Macaulay. People assume history if it's accurate it's boring. He quotes H.G. Wells, "history is the symbol of the creative will in man." Not only you will find this an educational, thrilling read but, you may want to explore further other citations he mentions in his writings. ... Read more

Product Description
Harness the Power of TR's Charisma
Theodore Roosevelt was a leader of uncommon strength who, through the sheer force of his extraordinary will, turned America into a modern world power. Thrown headfirst into the presidency by the assassination of his predecessor, he led with courage, character, and vision in the face of overwhelming challenges, whether busting corporate trusts or building the Panama Canal. Roosevelt has been a hero to millions of Americans for over a century and is a splendid model to help you master today's turbulent marketplace and be a hero and a leader in your own organization. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

Powerful Lessons on Leadership From TR
I've always admired Theodore Roosevelt. I've devoured every single biography out there about the man so I could learn lessons on being a better man in all facets of my life. What Mr. Strock does wonderfully in his book TR on Leadership is making those lessons from TR explicit and showing how individuals today can put TR's lessons on leadership in action right away. The book is fantastically organized. Chapters are divided into sections on different areas of leadership. At the end of each chapter, Mr. Strock summarizes TR's lessons and gives nice bullet points on how to put those lessons into practice.

If you're an admirer of Roosevelt or just want to become a better leader, you should definitely read this book.

The Substance of Leadership Well Presented
Mr. Strock, the author, again proves that he can glean the facts that create exemplary character and leadership ability. Jim Strock proves beyond a reasonable doubt that Theodore Roosevelt would have achieved great heights without the aid of the family wealth. It was Teddy's fortitude, courage and tenacity that propelled this great man. Mr. Strock has once again further established himself as a fine writer. I hope some day he turns his attention to fiction. Ted King

Darn good
Astounding. One of the best books on leadership and achievement that I've ever read...and unlike many other books purporting to be "about" the leadership abilities of various U.S. presidents and generals (but which are merely a list and/or description of their victories), Strock makes a careful analysis of TR's philosophy and decisions, bolstered by TR's own extensive, introspective writings on the subject. I fully plan on picking up the other books in this series, such as those on Churchill, Grant and Lee. Highly recommended!

Theodore Roosevelt on Leadership
I think this is one of the best books on leadership ever written.It moves and uses the life and characteristics of one of the true giants of leadership in our history to deliver real practical advise.

Lessons from a "Roughrider"
Theodore Roosevelt is an excellent person to study for one simple reason: He believed that his leadership abilities were learned and developed. By reading and studying other leaders, he made a concerted effort to develop himself (much like the way he developed his weak and sickly body into the "roughrider" we now remember). Roosevelt wrote of Ulysses S. Grant, "It is part of the man's greatness that now we can use his career purely for illustration." You and I can say the same thing about TR.
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Product Description
THIS 40 PAGE ARTICLE WAS EXTRACTED FROM THE BOOK: Outdoor Pastimes of an American Hunter, by Theodore Roosevelt. To purchase the entire book, please order ISBN 1417938501. ... Read more

Product Description
I N finishing the correction of the last proofs of this sketch, I perceive that some of those who read it may suppose that I planned to write a deliberate eulogy of Theodore Roosevelt. This is not true. I knew him for forty years, but I never followed his politic'al leadership. Our political differences, however, never lessened our personal friendship. Sometimes long intervals elapsed between our meetings, but when we met it was always ,vith the same intimacy, and when ve wrote it was with the same candor. I count it fortunate for me that during the last ten years of his life, I was thrown more with Roosevelt than during all the earlier period; and so I was a bie to observe him, to know his motives, and to study his character during the chief crises of his later career, when what he thought and did became an integral part of the development of the United States. After the outbreak of the World War, in 1914, he and I thought alike, and if I mistake not, this closing

Table of Contents

1 ORIGINS AND YOUTH; II BREAKING INTO POLITICS; III AT THE FIRST CROSSROADS; IV NATURE THE HEALER; V BACK TO THE EAST AND LITERATURE; ; VI APPLYING MORALS TO POLITICS; VII THE ROUGH RIDER 109; VIII GOVERKOR OF NEW YORK - VICE-PRESIDENT ]31; IX PRESIDENT 154; X THE WORLD WHICH ROOSEVELT CONFRONTED 158; XI ROOSEVELT'S FOREIGN POLICY 16Q; XII THE GREAT CRUSADE AT HOME J9I; XIII THE TWO ROOSEVELTS 201; XIV THE PRESIDENT AND THE KAISER 214; XV ROOSEVELT AND CONGRESS 231; XVI THE SQUARE DEAL IN ACTION 242; XVII ROOSEVELT AT HOME 255; XVIII HITS AND MISSES 281; XIX CHOOSING HIS SUCCESSOR 303; XX WORLD HONORS JI8; XXI VHICH VAS THE REPUBLICAN PARTY? 332; XXII THE TWO CONVENTIONS 356; XXIII THE BRAZILIAN ORDEAL 389; XXIV PROMETHEUS BOUND 402; XXV PROMETHEUS UNBOUND 426; rnD~ ~7

About the Publisher

Forgotten Books is a publisher of historical writings, such as: Philosophy, Classics, ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Theodore Roosevelt by William Roscoe Thayer
Several years ago, browsing through stacks of used books in an Idaho bookstore, I came across Theodore Roosevelt, An Intimate Biography, by William Roscoe Thayer, Houghton Mifflin Company, 1919. Once I started to read this book, I couldn't put it down. What makes this biography unique is that the author was an intimate friend who never voted for him or for any Republican candidate! William Roscoe Thayer rarely agreed with Republican policy, and frequently debated the political issues with Roosevelt, although they became closer in political thought and opinion after 1914.

It is refreshing to study the point of view of one of Roosevelt's contemporaries, instead of solely relying on the interpretations of authors who are so far removed from historical events. I heartily agree with Thayer's statement: "A contemporary can never judge as the historian a hundred years after the fact judges, but the contemporary view also has it's place, and it may be really nearer to the living truth than is the conclusion formed when the past is cold and remote and the actors are dead long ago. So a friend's outlined portrait, though obviously not impartial, must be nearer the truth than an enemy's can be - for the enemy is not impartial either. We have fallen too much into the habit of imagining that only hostile critics tell the truth."

I highly recommend this book as a much needed "balance" in one's study of Theodore Roosevelt's life, political thought, and what made him "tick."
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Customer Reviews (1)

Wilson draws upon original documents and historical images from diverse archives of Roosevelt papers
Theodore Roosevelt was perhaps the single most conservation oriented president America has ever had. He launched what would become an American original -- the Federal Park system. His appreciation of the outdoor life took root when he adventured west as a young man and his desire for outdoor adventure never left him. A consummate sportsman and naturalist, his books and ideas have been appreciated by every new generation of hunters, campers, fisherman, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Now historian and author R. L. Wilson has written and compiled a written a superbly and profusely illustrated biography of the 26th President who has come to represent a dedication to conservation and environmental issues that is nothing short of inspirational. In crafting this 296-page compendium, Wilson draws upon original documents and historical images from diverse archives of Roosevelt papers ranging from Harvard University and the Library of Congress to the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site and the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace Historic Site to chronicle and document an extraordinary man whose influence and ideals continue to influence our perception the great out-of-doors and all it has to offer by way of appreciation and responsibility for the adventurous of heart. Enthusiastically recommended for academic and community library collections, "Theodore Roosevelt Hunter Conservationist" is also available in a paperback edition. ... Read more

Product Description
People often associate Theodore Roosevelt with the Rough Riders, the volunteer cavalry regiment that he led to vic-tory in 1898 in the Spanish-American War. But the list of accomplishments of the 26th president of the United States is long: besides holding office as vice president, governor of New York State, and police commissioner of New York City, he was a writer, cowboy, historian, conservationist, and soldier. Above all, he ushered the United States into the ranks of the world"s great powers. His incredible exuberance and strength continue to inspire, and his progressive views on government and corporate corruption, labor laws, and feminism are still relevant today.

Award-winning author Betsy Harvey Kraft has written a sweeping biography that draws from diverse sources, including Theodore Roosevelt"s journals, correspondence, and autobiography, as well as the memoirs of family and friends and newspaper reports of the time. This excellent book also features archival photographs, political cartoons, and drawings by Roosevelt himself. Endnotes, bibliography, index. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Remarkable Overview
Sure, this biography is targeted to a young readership, and covers only briefly the incredible range of exploits of this resounding American.Nonetheless, the style is delightful and straightforward, giving a readability unmatched in presidential biographies. Proves that not all such texts need be dry, complex or exploitative in nature. I'd recommend this effort hands down as the ideal starting point for any age of reader seeking Teddy Roosevelt background. One of the most concise yet informative presidential bios of the dozens I've read across the spectrum.Even includes interesting photos and period cartoons frequently overlooked in the usual tedious biographical fare. Try it.

colorful, balanced, engrossing
I really can't imagine why this work is indicated as a grade-school level selection ("grades 5-8"), even being tagged as "juvenile" in the Library of Congress Cataloguing-in-Print metadata backing the title page. I found the work to be balanced, well-written, extremely engaging, quite informative, and visually attractive. Maybe only dry, stuffy biographies that present eight hundred odd pages of extraneous details--what TR ate for lunch on 1/14/1906, how much the train fare to Syosset was--rate as "adult" works, but they bore me to tears. (Plus, having scored 12+ on the standardized New York State reading tests when I was seven, I believe I am competent to speak with authority about both adult-oriented and putatively juvenile texts.) Of all the myriad works about TR, this is the one that I would gladly choose in exclusion to all others.

Great, accessible biography of our 26th president
The choice of Teddy Roosevelt is a good one to get kids to read about this raucous period of American history.Well illustrated with period photos and cartoons, the text is engaging and fast-paced.Perfect gift for that young teenager on your list, I can't wait until my daughter is old enough to read this!

He Tackled the Status Quo
Even the Presidency did not take the boy out of Theodore Roosevelt.A century ago, when Washington was a simpler place, TR engaged in such youthful sports as wintry swims in the Potomac. President Roosevelt showed similar courage in tackling financial tycoons or forcing Spain out of Cuba. TR was a significant figure on the political stage from the 1880s through World War I.He was an active, early conservationist. Betsy Kraft's well-paced, illustrated biography will engage young (and older) adults. The author brings this man and his era to life.Public libraries and high schools should find it valuable. ... Read more

Product Description
Theodore Roosevelt led an extremely active life, and he wrote extensively about it.This is a collection of some especially revealing articles and speeches made by the president. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Terrible Product
I was very excited when I ordered this book, only to find out that it was defective. As other reviews have already stated, the content in this book is incomplete, and repeats itself over and over again. Do not buy this product.

Incompetent Publisher
I just wanted to note that I share the experience of the other reviewer, who pointed out that the content is repeated over and over.I don't think this is just a binding error; the page numbers are correct (increasing) for the entire speech, but the actual speech is only around 18 pages, and then repeats for around 100 page.This item has serious problems.

Defective Book
Be aware that the bnpublishing version of this book repeats the first two speeches several times. It is very distracting and makes the book absolutely worthless. Can not believe it made it to publishing. What a disappointment.

Great Gift for Anyone in Need of a Swift Kick
Note: Amazon has grouped together reviews of several different editions of this book; this review is for The Strenuous Life (Little Books of Wisdom).

This book contains a speech given by the future 26th POTUS in Chicago in 1899 (not 1905 as this edition incorrectly states) that arguably embodies the essence of his political and personal philosophy.Today it could be retitled "Teddy versus the Welfare State" or "Teddy versus Isolationism" or "Teddy versus the Feminization of America" and thus would be all but incomprehensible and downright offensive to Americans of certain political persuasions,...

which is a shame because cowardice and sloth, what Teddy is really preaching against here, ennoble no ideal, advance no cause, and in the end do nobody any good.

It is of course very easy to come up with excuses for ignoring the wisdom embodied in this speech: it has been used to justify imperialism, it is chauvinistic in several different ways, but none of this really adds up to a legitimate excuse to sit on your rear end in safety and comfort while work needs doing or evil needs fighting.

Note: One could complain that this book is available online for free.Well, yes, what part of in the public domain do you not understand?However, trying to get away with giving someone a printout as a gift will earn you the nickname of cheapskate.If all you want to do is read it yourself, then by all means stick to the free sites.However, if you are looking for a way to get through to someone else, you are better off buying a copy, and a solitary sawbuck for this sturdy pocket-sized reprint is going to be tough to beat.The chief virtue of it being online is your ability to read it first and make sure that this is the book you want to give before ordering it.

Note: Applewood Books has produced a nice looking inexpensive series of sturdy pocket-sized reprints of important American books, documents, speeches, pamphlets, and poems, the Little Books of Wisdom, uniform with this volume, that are ideal for gifting to doctors, lawyers, teachers, business professionals, and students of same: The Way to Wealth, George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation, The Constitution of the United States of America, On the Art of Teaching, The Poems of Abraham Lincoln, The Bill of Rights with Writings That Formed Its Foundation, The Path of the Law, The Constitution of the Confederate States of America, The Jefferson Bible: The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth, A Message to Garcia, A Declaration of Sentiments, Robert's Rules of Order, Good Citizenship, On Being Human, A Discourse Upon the Duties of a Physician, The Declaration of Independence with Short Biographies of Its Signers, Teamwork, Stick-To-Itiveness, Opportunity, & You, The Wants of Man, George Washington's Farewell Address, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, The Speech of Chief Seattle, Common Sense, The Articles of Confederation, The Emancipation Proclamation, and The Gospel of Wealth.

Some selected volumes are also available in boxed sets: Books of American Wisdom Boxed Set, CEO's Gift Box of Wisdom, Doctor's Gift Box of Wisdom, Lawyer's Gift Box of Wisdom, New Citizen's Gift Box of Wisdom, and Teacher's Gift Box of Wisdom.

And some have been published in Spanish: Un Mensaje a Garcia and Constitucion de Los Estados Unidos.

Remarkable Content; Inferior Publication
I was very excited to receive this and start reading it.My excitement turned into disappointment when I saw the content start repeating.At first I thought "certainly TR didn't repeat himself so redundantly".Then, I realized that it was the publication itself.In my copy, the speech just starts over on page 16, 26 (starts on 2nd paragraph this time), and it goes on and on it seems.There is no indication that you are rereading what has already been printed.It just goes from one paragraph to the next and the next paragraph may be a repeat of what was on page 1.
I guess I will go through the hassle of packaging this up and sending it back to Amazon. ... Read more

Product Description
St. Martin's is proud to present a new and continuing series of the greatest classics in the literature of hunting and adventure, chosen from the personal library of writer and big game hunter Peter Hathaway Capstick. These showcase volumes will once again make available the true masterpieces of Africana to collectors, armchair hunters, sportsmen, and readers at large.

The twenty-sixth president of the United States was also a world-renowned hunter, conservationist, soldier, and scholar. In 1908 he took a long safari holiday in East Africa with his son Kermit. His account of this adventure is as remarkably fresh today as it was when these adventures on the veldt were first published. Roosevelt describes the excitement of the chase, the people he met (including such famous hunters as Cunninghame and Selous), and flora and fauna he collected in the name of science. Long out of print, this classic is one of the preeminent examples of Africana, and belongs on every collector's shelf.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

good text
T.R. does a great job in painting a word picture of his safari. You can almost see it. If your sensitive to racism you may be offended by some of his comments. I'm sure he meant no harm after all it was written a century ago.
The big thing for this publisher is the picture reproduction in the book, it is down right poor. That is why I rated it only three stars.

Perfect reading for downtime on your safari
I had just finished reading Douglas Brinkley's new The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America and decided to take Roosevelt's African Game Trails: An Account of the African Wanderings of an American Hunter-Natrualist on my own safari to East Africa this summer. The book is a collection of articles he wrote during his 1909-10 safari for Scribners.

One of the questions I had before I read the book is whether it would actually provide interesting insights into Roosevelt and Africa, or whether it would just relate how Roosevelt shot up wildlife. I found the book to be a mix of both. Roosevelt is a keen observer of wildlife and provides many insights into animals that biologists consider accurate today (and that I observed on my trip). His discussion of which of the Big 5 (Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos, and Cape Buffalo) is the most dangerous is interesting and he reflects upon his own experiences to conclude that it depends on the situation. There are also a few memorable stories, such as the time when his fellow hunters had to throw several spears into a Lion to stop its charge. It is also simply fun to see a former U.S. president in all sorts of crazy situations (the book has great black & white photos from the trip).

However, the most interesting aspect of the book is its insight into Roosevelt himself. He frequently calls indigenous Africans savages and praises European settlers. From these remarks, it is clear that he saw Europeans in Africa in much the same manner as he saw the American West - a new frontier to be settled on behalf of civilization. He isn't racist - at least according to the standards of his time (in the U.S., he was actually quite progressive on race) - but rather reflects a Social Darwinist view of humanity.

This is a long book (over 500 pages in my version) and it seems long after a while since it generally involves the accumulated killing of animals. However, you have to remember that it was originally written as a series of articles for Scribners and was not meant to be read in one sitting. I think it works well if you read it over a few days or weeks. I read mine during the long drives from one park to the next during my safari in East Africa. That way, you won't get fatigued by the hunting stories.

One final note: this book is crying out for an annotated edition. I think it would be great for some conservation biologist to expound upon Roosevelt's observations of African wildlife. While Roosevelt gets many things right, we have also benefitted from a century of field research in East Africa. For example, Roosevelt at first is adamant that there is only one species of Rhinoceros, with the Black Rhino being the common form and White Rhinos a sub-species aberration (although by the end of the book he sounds less sure). Of course, today we consider these two distinct species and in fact the Black Rhino is far less common. I would also be interested in learning whether his observations of the African tribes were accurate. Alas, this is the work of a future edition. While you're waiting, you can take this edition of African Game Trails with you on your next safari.

Great story of a great man
I have been interested in reading about Theodore Roosevelt for some time.I finally got around to reading this book.It is rather long, but it is great on adventure.He spent I think over a year in Africa hunting almost every kind of animal.I was also interested in the guns he used because I have a business card that was given to me by my Grandmother that she says was one of her relatives.It is a card that says T GLAHN & SONS OF PHILADELPHIA, PA. ENGRAVERS OF THE ROOSEVELT GUN.I have no idea which gun, but it is a great keepsake from my Grandmother.Anyway I found this to be a real great book, I wish I could find more like it.Thanks.

Interesting but too much drudgery.
Great descriptions of some fine hunts against dangerous game and great commentary on the local human wildlife so to speak.It's unfortunate that liberal revisionists have tried to paint a vision of Africa that simply is not so nor ever was.Unfortunately the book is filled with too much 'Today I shot this, that and the other thing' which becomes really damned dull after awhile.

No Title
Soooo glad to have finished this one.Written in 1909, 1910, immediately after Roosevelt left the Presidency and went to Africa in March, 1909, for the Smithsonian, to shoot a zillion animals and bring back their hides and heads for the collections.He went with his son Kermit, who shot most of the very fuzzy black and white pictures in the book, and more animals even than his father.He was about 20 then.It is a picture of colonial East Africa at that time, and of Western man's thinking about the black natives, who were "children". Thankfully, that sort of mind-set has disappeared.But you can see here that Roosevelt had it in spades.Too bad some of his bearers did not write their own accounts. ... Read more

Product Description

THIS SERIES CELEBRATES THE TRADITION of literary naturalists-writers who embrace the natural world as the setting for some of our most euphoric and serious experiences. These books map the intimate connections between the human and the natural world. Literary naturalists transcend political boundaries, social concerns and historical milieus; they speak for what Henry Beston called the "other nations" of the planet. Their message acquires more weight and urgency as wild places become increasingly scarce. ... Read more

Product Description
Theodore Roosevelt (October 27, 1858 - January 6, 1919; was the 26th President of the United States. He is well remembered for his energetic persona, range of interests and achievements, leadership of the Progressive Movement, model of masculinity, and his "cowboy" image. He was a leader of the Republican Party and founder of the short-lived Progressive ("Bull Moose") Party of 1912. Before becoming President (1901-1909) he held offices at the municipal, state, and federal level of government. Roosevelt's achievements as a naturalist, explorer, hunter, author, and soldier are as much a part of his fame as any office he held as a politician. (wikipedia) ... Read more

Product Description
The Roosevelt family, with its rambunctious father and six children, invaded and occupied the White House as no other family has since. Roosevelt was a wonderful father, writing to his children, guiding them, playing with them and loving them as do only the best fathers. Long out of print, these personal letters are warm, wonderfully wise and witty--the best things Teddy Roosevelt ever wrote. Photos. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Delightful!
"A Bully Father" is a delightful insight into a remarkable American family.The first portion of the book is a biographical narrative of Theodore Roosevelt, with a strong emphasis on his family life.The remainder is a collection of letters from TR to his children.Although the letters are identified by topic, they are otherwise left to speak for themselves.

These letters were generally written to his children while they were away at school.The letters are treasures from the Age of Letters.Things which today would be communicated in person, by telephone or e-mail were, in TR's day, communicated and preserved in correspondence.The letters cover a wide variety of topics.Events of daily life of the Roosevelt family and evaluations, favorable and unfavorable, of the child constitute the majority of the letters.Nothing was too small for TR's attention.Horse and carriage rides, playing with children or wrestling with Japanese wrestlers, his tennis partners and White House visitors are all recorded for our enjoyment.TR also used these letters to give vocational advice as well as to comment on public events of the day.TR also expounds on his views on literature and history, as well as his views on family values.The classical literature which he and "Mother" read to the children are mind boggling!

This is a book which is enjoyable to read and also makes you think.TR's relationship with his children and his interactions with them provide a standard against which we can measure our own lives.Read this book and treasure it!

A shining light across the century
Teddy shines through as a true inspiration to all fathers.I read this book, and then "played bear" with my children.

TheEssence ofFatherhood
The greatest legacy a father can leave the world is his children. Theodore Roosevelt is more popularly remembered in history as the great Trust Buster and the hero of San Juan Hill, but his greatest contribution was something that until this book, has been overlooked, the impact of a loving and nurturing father on his children.

Reading this book, one gets the unmistakable impression that Teddy Roosevelt was infinitely more concerned about the lives of his children than he ever was about the affairs of the Presidency. Readers are left with the impression that at a moments notice, he would give up everything for the welfare of even one of his kids. What a legacy to leave for history.

In an age where families are under siege and children are becoming more like trophies that are displayed, Teddy Roosevelt's letters to his children shine as a beacon pointing us to what being a parent is all about, raising, loving, and nurturing our children.

What ever happened to writing letters? The art of letter writing has all but passed away. In T.R.'s time reading letters was a family event, something that was eagerly anticipated by the entire family. Today's family is forced to deal with the constant barrage of faxes, e-mails and cellular phones.Family conversation has been reduced to digital bytes rather than meaningful conversation.George Washington may have been the father of our nation, but Teddy Roosevelt had a far more lasting impact, he was a father to his children.

Terrifically humanistic view of one of our great presidents
Here was one of my heroes, doing the un-heroic:Writing letters to his children (usually the older boys, Kermit and Archie).And, what letters they are! Full of advice, careful remonstrance and laughter.Theodore Roosevelt's love of life and his children come through loud and clear.If you are a serious reader of history and/or treasure the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, as I do, get your hands on this book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Warrior reviews Priest
This book is a fine overview of the early progressive movement and the leading lights, Rossevelt and Wilson. Those who think Roosevelt was a conservative will be shocked to find that he was as least as radical, if not more so, than Wilson. Both thought Government was the answer to social problems. Both believed the central government needed to intervene in the economy. They made modern liberalism and bear the responsibility for the results.

a good book, often a great book
I recently became interested in TR.This book brought forth the life stories of two political giants and made sense of their lives together.Though they lived a great portion of their lives in different realms, ultimately the focus of this book, presidential politics, and esspecially foreign policy, bright the two adversaries together.Cooper does a great job demonstraiting their importance to the "American presidency," and esspecially the shaping of twentieth century foreign policy.

Two presidents not compared often enough
"John Milton Cooper...blends these contrasting and kindred elements into a masterful portrait of two of our most intriguing presidents," David Kennedy in the New York Times Book Review, November 20 1983. TR and Wilson are often considered to be the same, especially in the in the domestic realm.The New Freedom was simply an extension of New Nationalism.But Cooper espouses the differences through analysis of both important domestic debates and the politics of war and internationalism. For anyone interested in studying Roosevelt, Wilson, and the Progressive era this book is an important read.

ok, but lacks depth and originality
When I picked this up, I thought:hey, why not two bios for the effort of one?Why not indeed:you can't delve deeply enough into these two substantial and complex lives in this context. THere is some useful comparisons made of their careers, but it is way way too ambitious.While you do get many of the factual basics, which were indeed interesting, neither of these past Presidents comes alive.

REcommended only for the facts.Look for flavor and pyschological depth elsewhere.

Well-reason parallel lives
This is a great work of scholarship dealing with two of the most important figures of the early 20th century. Cooper is able to bring out the differences in the approaches that both men had in setting the US political agenda in the early 20th century. Cooper is always a great treat to read. I must say that the title is somewhat interesting. When looking at Roosevelt or Wilson who is in fact the warrior and who the priest? ... Read more