The 26th president of the United States was a strong and clever man who could handle almost everything—except his eldest child, Alice.

Alice Roosevelt was an independent, outspoken young woman during a time when women were supposed to be conventional and reserved. Whether it was riding a pig, keeping a pet snake, or driving a car—and speeding!—Alice did what she wanted to. When her father told she had to obey his rules while she lived under his roof, Alice decided to spend her time on top of the roof!

Readers will enjoy author Leslie Kimmelman's factual and affectionate look at a free spirit who caught the attention of a nation in the early years of the twentieth century. Kimmelman juxtaposes Alice's antics with the achievements of her father—from his creation of our national parks system to his successful efforts at diplomacy—yet all the while, demonstrates a tender bond between the two. Adam Gustavson's illustrations perfectly capture the humor of the story and the strong personalities of its characters while placing the story within its proper historical context.


Author Photo

Leslie Kimmelman is a children's book editor and the author of a number of books for children, including Mind Your Manners, Alice Roosevelt!; Everybody Bonjours!; How Do I Love You?; and The Runaway Latkes. She and her family live in New York.

Author Photo

Adam Gustavson has illustrated sixteen books for children, including Mind Your Manners, Alice Roosevelt! and Snow Day!. He lives in New Jersey.

You can visit Adam Gustavson’s website here.



“A lively, fictionalized portrait of a very independent girl.” ―Publishers Weekly

“...realistic oil-on-paper illustrations convey the period while capturing the humor and vivaciousness of the Roosevelts.” ―School Library Journal

“...energetic oil paintings do justice to Alice's shocking escapades...ideal for reading aloud.” ―Booklist

“What a fun picture-book biography!” ―Winston-Salem Journal

“...Based on true stories about Alice Roosevelt, this is a story that is entertaining and interesting. Young readers will learn a lot about Teddy Roosevelt, his household (including the many pets), and his rambunctious eldest daughter who liked to cause a stir wherever she went. Adam Gustavson's expressive illustrations perfectly capture Alice's lively nature, and the many ways in which she exasperated her father.” ―Through the Looking Glass Reviews blog


Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People ―NCSS/CBC 2010

CELI Book Award for Children's Literature (finalist) ―Center for Excellence in Literacy Instruction 2009

Kansas State Reading Circle Recommended Reading List (intermediate) ―Kansas National Education Association 2010

Best Children's Books of the Year ―Bank Street College of Education 2010

Charlotte Award Suggested Reading List (primary) ―New York State Reading Association 2012

Land of Enchantment Book Awards (Picture Narrative Master List) ―New Mexico Library Association, New Mexico Council of IRA 2012-2013