What To Do About Alice?
PLOT SUMMARY
In this biography, Barbara Kerley writes the true story of Alice Roosevelt, daughter of U.S. president
Theodore Roosevelt. This story shows a glimpse of who Alice was and how she wants to take on the
world with no limits.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Kerley writes this factual story with a dash of a sense of humor. As Alice grows up, she realizes that
she is not a traditional lady and instead wants to “eat up the world”. In this wildly, colorful story Alice
is shown as an independent woman that is eager to explore the world. U.S. president, Theordore
Roosevelt acknowledges that there is no way in stopping his wildly curious daughter. “I can be
president of the United States, or I can control Alice. I cannot possibly do both.” - Theodore Roosevelt
This lovely book is filled with fun colorful illustrations with a light sense of humor. The illustrations
help you envision and feel the havoc that Alice would cause her father. I would recommend this book
for 10 year olds and older.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
“Theodore Roosevelt's irrepressible oldest child receives an appropriately vivacious appreciation in
this superb picture book... Taking her thematic approach from Alice's own self-description, Kerley's
precise text presents readers with a devilishly smart, strong-willed girl who was determined to live life
on her own terms-and largely succeeded... The illustrator takes every opportunity to develop Alice's
character further... It's a gleeful celebration of a fully, unapologetically led life.”
– Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“It's hard to imagine a picture book biography that could better suit its subject than this high-energy
volume serves young Alice Roosevelt... Debut illustrator Fotheringham creates the perfect mood from
the start... Kids will embrace a heroine who teaches her younger stepsiblings to sled down the White
House stairs, entertains dignitaries with her pet snake and captivates a nation with pranks and high
jinks.”
– Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Kerley's text has the same rambunctious spirit as its subject, grabbing readers from the first line... The
large format gives Fotheringham, in his debut, plenty of room for spectacular art.”
– Booklist, starred review
CONNECTIONS
“This is a great introduction to Alice. It hits the highlights of her achievements without going into
controversial topics. It has great illustrations.”
Based on a review by Stephanie.
I highly recommend this lovely, witty book for 8 year olds and older.
AWARDS
ALA Notable,Boston Globe-Horn Honor Book
Robert F. Sibert Honor Book
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