Young Franklin Roosevelt moves beyond his spoiled childhood to a more mature resolve to pursue a life of service and action, like his cousin Theodore in this, the third of the “Turning Point” biographies. The breezy text depicts a boy secure in the knowledge that he is the center of the universe, cosseted by his doting mother. Although raised as a gentleman never to sully himself with politics, young Franklin’s contacts with President Grover Cleveland, his thrilling cousin and the public-minded headmaster of Groton School, which he entered at age 14, convince him that politics represent excitement, power and, most important, an opportunity to serve. Spencer’s ink-and-watercolor illustrations borrow, appropriately enough, from the conventions of political cartooning, oversized heads and exaggerated perspectives adding humor and movement to the narrative. St. George sketches her character deftly, adding quotations from Roosevelt’s own writings to allow the boy to speak for himself. An author’s note fills in the 32nd president’s career after high school, emphasizing his commitment to the betterment of all Americans. All in all, it’s an engaging entry in a pleasingly child-friendly series. (author’s note, bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 6-10)
