Franklin and Lucy: Mrs. Rutherfurd and the Other Remarkable Women in Roosevelt's Life

ISBN: 0812974964

Author: Persico, Joseph E.

Condition: New

Just when you thought you knew everything about Franklin D. Roosevelt, think again. Joseph E. Persico [is] one of Americas finest historians. . . . You cant properly understand FDR the man without reading this landmark study.-Douglas Brinkley, professor of history at Rice UniversityPersicos exploration of FDRs emotional life is fascinating.-USA TodayIn Franklin and Lucy, acclaimed author and historian Joseph E. Persico explores FDRs romance with Lucy Rutherfurd. Persicos provocative conclusions about their relationship are informed by a revealing range of sources, including never-before-published letters and documents from Lucy Rutherfurds estate that attest to the intensity of the affair, which lasted much longer than was previously acknowledged.FDRs connection with Lucy also creates an opportunity for Persico to take a more penetrating look at the other women in FDRs life. We come to see more clearly how FDRs infidelity contributed to Eleanor Roosevelts eventual transformation from a repressed Victorian to perhaps the greatest American woman of her century; how FDRs strong-willed mother helped to strengthen his resolve in overcoming personal and public adversity; and how both paramours and platonic friends completed the world that FDR inhabited. In focusing on Lucy Rutherfurd and the other women who mattered to Roosevelt, Persico renders the most intimate portrait yet of an enigmatic giant of American history.Praise for Franklin and LucyPersico is judicious in his treatment of these sensitive matters. . . . He understands that Lucy Mercer helped FDR awaken his capacity for love and compassion, and thus helped him become the man to whom the nation will be eternally in debt.-The Washington Post Book WorldA stylish and well-written book filled with interesting characters, marital dramas and spylike subterfuge.-Chicago TribuneA powerful narrative that rarely fails to pull you along to the next chapter.-Louisville Courier-JournalUtterly absorbing.-Pittsburgh Post-Gazette