Book Review: Theodore Roosevelt Biography

Another short post today- just wanted to give a quick review of the book I finished, "Lion in the White House", by Aida D. Donald. Before, I had admired Theodore Roosevelt for his accomplishments in wildlife conservation, but this biography helped me appreciate even more of what he did for America and the world. 

Here are some quotes from the book about Roosevelt and forestry:

"Roosevelt was our earliest and most passionate environmentalist. He attended to nature's beauty and bounty, that is, to the country's natural resources and their protection and wise use. His scientific bent and western adventures...gave him a capacious and loving view of pristine forests...."

"He established the Forest Service, and a reforestation program yielded renewable resources. During his presidency, the service protected sixteen million new acres in 150 national forests, quadrupling what already existed. Roosevelt created five national parks...fifty-one wildlife refuges also came into being."

"The progressive Republican senator from Wisconsin, Robert La Follette, proclaimed at the time, 'The Conservation of our Natural Resources....is probably the greatest thing Roosevelt did, undoubtedly.'"

I came across some cool facts while reading, too. For example, did you know he was the one who named the White House? Until 1901 it was called the Executive Mansion, or the Presidential Palace. Roosevelt also added offices to its west wing. Most people know that his refusal to shoot a tied bear led to the creation of the teddy bear, but don't think he never shot animals! In his trek to Africa alone, he boasted 296 kills, including lions, giraffes, and elephants. (Back in the early 1900's, conservation of these animals wasn't a big issue like it is today! Imagine if Obama went on a hunting safari like that....) Theodore Roosevelt was perhaps best known for his manliness-  from leading his Rough Riders in battle, to mediating world powers, and pushing for progressive policies. In 1912, he even continued his speech for over an hour after he was shot with a bullet that went 4 inches into his chest!! 

The only complaint I have about this book, in particular, was the consistent reference to Roosevelt's idol, Abraham Lincoln. Granted, Lincoln's policies did influence a lot of Roosevelt's decisions, I just found myself annoyed to see his name on virtually every page. My theory is that the author felt the need to include him so often because she lives in Lincoln, Massachusetts! (Maybe it was a deal with their tourism bureau?) 

All in all, it was a very informative read, and I would certainly recommend it to anyone interested in this magnificent historical figure.

Thanks for reading guys and check back soon!!

Book Review: Jeff Corwin

Jeff Corwin is famous for his work in wildlife conservation, and I have been a fan of his since I was little. While it's hard to compare anyone to Steve Irwin, I would say Jeff Corwin is the American version of the late Crocodile Hunter, teaching audiences about animals from around the globe with his funny and educational TV shows ("The Jeff Corwin Experience" has over 13 million viewers in the US!) 

In this book, he narrates a series of tales about the world's most endangered species of animals. "100 Heartbeats" means that 100 or less of the animals of these species exist in the wild. And not only does this book talk about heartbeats, it also pulls on heartstrings- I found myself crying several times over the atrocities some of these animals face. But on the flip side, Mr. Corwin's outgoing and entertaining personality shines through, and kept me hungry for the story on each following page. Even for someone educated in animals and conservation like myself, this book was an eye-opener- it showed what is going on on the front lines of these issues. 

In short, I recommend this book to everyone. I absolutely loved it, and I think if more people read this piece, the general public would have a better appreciation for wildlife and those fighting to protect it. So do yourself a favor and buy it! 

For fun, here's a video of some of his shows' clips! Can you see why I adore this guy?

Here are a few links to some more of Mr. Corwin's projects:
TV Shows and Appearances
Another Book of His
Emerald Canopy Rainforest Research Association

With the summer ending, I look forward to posting more often, so keep checking back! And of course (you guessed it:) thank you for reading!