Our Eleanor: A Scrapbook Look at Eleanor Roosevelt's Remarkable Life



Bibliography: 

Fleming, Candace. Our Eleanor: A Scrapbook Look at Eleanor Roosevelt's Remarkable Life. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2005. ISBN 9780689865442



Plot Summary:

Candace Fleming’s Our Eleanor is a biography about one of America’s most beloved first ladies. The book begin with a timeline then brings the reader through a nontraditional look at Eleanor’s life through handwritten notes, letters, newspaper articles, personal diary entries, and photographs.


Critical Analysis: 
In Our Eleanor, Fleming’s invites the reader on a wonderful journey of the former first ladies’ life in the form of a scrapbook. The book starts with Eleanor’s childhood then to motherhood, next her time as the first lady and ending with her death. What sets this biography apart from others is not only the use of the scrapbook but also the way Fleming keeps the reader engaged and motivated to move forward and read to the very end.
What is fascinating about this book is the wealth of photographs, dairy entries, newspaper articles, letters, sketches and so much more. These authentic artifacts give the readers a fun and engaging insight to Roosevelt’s life. This book is set apart from other biographies because it is easy for young readers to read, but I would recommend it for older readers because of some controversial topics. The organized sections, body headings, subheading and layout makes it easy for readers to follow from beginning to end.


The design of this information text is very appealing to readers. The vast number of photographs and graphics catch the reader’s attention but the interesting facts about Eleanor’s like keeps the readers engaged. For example, on page 71 it was interesting to learn that Eleanor refused to be accompanied by secret service. It is evident that Fleming's interest and knowledge of the material makes it more enjoyable to read. 


 Review Excerpts: 

·         ALA Notable Book


·         Best Book for Young Adults


·         Jefferson Cup winner,Virginia Library Association


·         Junior Library Guild Selection


·         New York Public Library 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing 2005


·         Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Medal Winner


·         Parent's Choice Gold Medal


·         Publishers Weekly Best Book 2005


·         School Library Journal Best Book 2005


“With this approach, Fleming allows readers to draw their own conclusions; they will come away with an understanding of a woman who shaped her times and left a lasting imprint on the future”- PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY



“Enjoyably educational, Our Eleanor will be a core title in all collections for years to come”

-SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL


Connections: 

Related books:

The Lincolns: A Scrapbook Look at Abraham and Mary ( 9780375836183)

Ben Franklin's Almanac: Being a True Account of the Good Gentleman's Life (9780689835490)

Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart (9780375841989)



·         Student create a timeline of important dates of Eleanor’s life.

·         Student create a informational scrapbook of another person’s life.

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