F.D.R. An Intimate History

by Nathan Miller

A centennial biography of Franklin Roosevelt analyzes his complex personality, traces his controversial career from his youth to the presidency, and assesses his role in the New Deal and World War II

Genres: Biography, History, Presidents, American History

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1983

About the author

Nathan Miller received his bachelor's and master's degrees in history from the University of Maryland before becoming a reporter for the Baltimore Sun. He spent more than 15 years as a journalist, including a three-year tour as the paper's chief Latin American correspondent, based in Rio de Janeiro, before becoming an investigator and speechwriter for Sen. John L. McClellan on the permanent subcommittee on investigations and later the Senate Appropriations Committee. Miller left the congressional staff in 1977 to be a full-time freelance writer.

Reviews

[Brian · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nathan Miller provides a refreshing narrative of FDR in his book an Intimate Life. Overall while there are some inaccuracies that other historians later disproved the views espoused here are sound and look at a different aspect than many FDR biographies do. Particularly with regard to Roosevelt's rise to power and his elections with his inner circle are detailed and thoughtfully discussed. While some may find the detail of his early life tiring it does do a lot to shape who he is as a person and provide insight into his later actions. In fact this is one of the best looks at Roosevelt as a person without elevating him to the godlike status that so many biographers do. If you are looking for a quick overview that looks at Roosevelt as a person and not just his time as president this is a good place to start but discount much of the Eleanor pages since that has largely been disproved.

[Robert K · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Republican, I firmly believe Franklin Roosevelt was right for the times. The New Deal by promoting the work ethic lifted American's spirits and Roosevelt's support of Churchill against the Nazi regime saved the world! This is an objective book that shows the man's flaws while vividly portraying his ability to overcome polio & other challenges while celebrating his optimistic nature from which we all benefit today! A great man--a great book!

[Carroll Straus · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fascinating so far.