This I Remember

This I Remember chronicles Eleanor Roosevelt's years as First Lady and her transformation from a private citizen into one of America's most influential public figures. The memoir focuses on the period from 1933-1945, when she redefined the role of First Lady through her activism, journalism, and public speaking. Roosevelt documents her involvement in key historical events, including the Great Depression, World War II, and the formation of the United Nations. She details her work with various social causes, her regular press conferences, and her pioneering efforts to give voice to marginalized groups in American society. The book provides an insider's perspective of life in the White House during a pivotal era in American history. Roosevelt recounts her interactions with world leaders, politicians, activists, and ordinary citizens who shaped the nation during her husband's presidency. This memoir stands as a testament to personal growth and civic engagement, demonstrating how one person's commitment to public service can impact society. The narrative presents a blueprint for active citizenship and social reform that remains relevant today.

Readers describe This I Remember as an intimate look at FDR's presidency and the Roosevelt marriage through Eleanor's perspective. Many reviewers note her frank, thoughtful writing style and ability to humanize major historical figures. Readers appreciated: - Personal anecdotes about White House life and world leaders - Details about her relationship with FDR - Behind-the-scenes view of presidential decision-making - Her candid discussion of mistakes and regrets Common criticisms: - Sometimes dry and overly focused on schedules/logistics - Lack of emotional depth in certain key moments - Limited discussion of her personal feelings about FDR's death Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (239 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (31 ratings) "She writes as she lived - with grace, intelligence and a clear eye," noted one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads reader commented: "The day-to-day details can be tedious, but her insights into major figures of the era make it worthwhile."

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🔹 Eleanor Roosevelt kept a daily newspaper column called "My Day" for 26 years (1935-1962), writing nearly 8,000 columns about her observations and experiences. 🔹 She held 348 press conferences exclusively for female reporters, forcing news organizations to hire women journalists if they wanted to cover the White House. 🔹 This I Remember was published in 1949, just four years after FDR's death, when the events and emotions were still fresh in the author's mind. 🔹 During her time as First Lady, Eleanor traveled over 40,000 miles in 1933 alone, equivalent to traveling around the globe one and a half times. 🔹 The book was written at Val-Kill, Eleanor's personal retreat in Hyde Park, NY - the only National Historic Site dedicated to a First Lady in the United States.