Alice: Alice Roosevelt Longworth, from White House Princess to Washington Power Broker

Alice Roosevelt Longworth was Theodore Roosevelt's first daughter and one of America's most influential political figures. This biography traces her journey from her early life in the White House to her emergence as a power broker in Washington D.C.'s political circles. Based on previously unpublished letters, photographs, and family papers, the book reconstructs Alice's complex relationships with her father, stepmother, and extended family. The narrative follows her evolution from a rebellious presidential daughter to a woman who shaped national policy through her social connections and political acumen. This work explores the intersection of personal and political life in Washington across multiple decades of American history. Through Alice's story, Cordery examines themes of power, gender roles, and the nature of influence in American politics.

Readers found this biography illuminating about Alice Roosevelt's influence in American politics across multiple presidencies. Reviews highlight the depth of research and previously unpublished sources. Liked: - Details of her relationships with political figures - Coverage of her wit and rebellious personality - Discussion of her complex marriage and family dynamics - Inclusion of many direct quotes and correspondence Disliked: - Some found the writing dry and academic in tone - Several noted the book becomes less engaging after covering her early White House years - A few readers wanted more analysis of her later political impact - Some felt overwhelmed by details of minor political figures Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (180+ ratings) "Finally a biography that treats Alice as more than just a rebellious first daughter" - Amazon reviewer "Too much focus on political minutiae that slows the narrative" - Goodreads reviewer

No Ordinary Time by Doris Kearns Goodwin This dual biography chronicles Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt's partnership during WWII, revealing how another unconventional Roosevelt woman wielded influence in Washington.

Washington's Lady by Nancy Moser Martha Washington's transformation from private citizen to America's first First Lady presents a parallel to Alice Roosevelt's journey in the political spotlight.

Mrs. Adams in Winter by Michael O'Brien Louisa Adams's 1815 journey across war-torn Europe illuminates the life of another politically savvy presidential daughter-in-law who navigated international society.

Kay Summersby Morgan: The Woman Who Almost Changed History by Kieron Wood The story of Eisenhower's driver-turned-confidante provides insight into another woman who gained access to power through unconventional means in Washington.

The Sisters: The Saga of the Mitford Family by Mary S. Lovell The biography of the six Mitford sisters chronicles how another group of high-society women carved individual paths through politics and society during tumultuous times.

🦋 While President Theodore Roosevelt was Alice's father, her mother (Alice Lee Roosevelt) died just two days after giving birth to her. TR's grief was so profound that for years he could not speak of his first wife and referred to Alice only as "Baby Lee." 🦋 The color "Alice Blue" was named after Alice Roosevelt Longworth, inspired by her signature pale blue dresses. The shade became a fashion sensation in the early 1900s and even inspired the popular song "Alice Blue Gown." 🦋 Author Stacy A. Cordery spent over a decade researching this biography, gaining unprecedented access to Alice's private papers and previously unpublished letters, including correspondence with her father. 🦋 Alice had a pet snake named Emily Spinach (Emily because it was green, and Spinach because it was thin) that she often carried around the White House, causing quite a stir among visitors and staff. 🦋 A famous embroidered pillow in Alice's home bore her most memorable quote: "If you can't say something good about someone, sit right here by me." This perfectly captured her reputation as Washington's most sharp-tongued socialite.