Description

A “beautifully illustrated and gracefully told” (School Library Journal) portrait of a beloved, courageous president. 

John F. Kennedy was a popular, charismatic president, beloved by many. But he didn’t always believe he had the strength or courage for that office. As a child, he was sickly and also overshadowed by his strong, capable, athletic older brother Joe. After Joe Jr.’s death, John had to work hard to live up to his own expectations and to those of his father. He overcame pain and self-doubt to see the country through one of the most difficult crises in its history.

In this enriching introduction to the life of the 35th president of the United States, Doreen Rappaport combines real-life quotes with her own lyrical prose to create a moving portrait of a beloved figure, while Matt Tavares’ stunning artwork vividly depicts this unique time in history.

Don’t miss these other titles in the Big Words series!
Beacon of Hope: The Life of Barack Obama
Ruth Objects: The Life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Helen’s Big World: The Life of Helen Keller
Abe’s Honest Words: The Life of Abraham Lincoln
Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Praise

“Readers see JFK’s competitive drive both in sports and in his defiance of Khrushchev; his intellectual side as a reader and author; his courage during World War II; and his dedication to service, as a “fill-in” for his dead brother Joe’s political plans and as founder of the Peace Corps. Still, Rappaport refuses to turn this life into a hagiography, citing the disaster of the Cuban Missile Crisis and pointing out Kennedy’s slow progress toward civil rights for African Americans.”  —The Horn Book
“A brief but inspiring portrait…”  —Kirkus Reviews
“This beautifully illustrated and gracefully told story serves as a superior introduction to our 35th president.” —School Library Journal
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