Lady: The Story of Claudia Alta (Lady Bird) Johnson

by Liz Carpenter (Foreword), Jean Flynn

"Why, she's as purty as a lady bird," said nursemaid Alice Tittle as she gently rocked the newborn. And Lady Bird it was for Claudia Alta Taylor, later more popularly known as Lady Bird Johnson, wife of the president of the United States. This biographical sketch for young adults is a combination of facts and direct quotes taken from printed interviews and oral histories. The author relates Mrs. Johnson's early life, her leaving home in northeast Texas at Karnack, her marriage to Lyndon Baines Johnson, her family life, her years in Washington as the wife of a senator and later the president, the political campaigns, and finally the influence she exerted on the environmental movement, especially her work with wildflower preservation and restoration. The First Lady continues to make her home in Central Texas, mostly in Austin and the beloved hill country at the LBJ Ranch, where she served as hostess for dignitaries from around the world while Mr. Johnson was president.

162 pages, Paperback

Published June 1, 1992

About the author

Elizabeth "Liz" Sutherland Carpenter was a writer, feminist, former reporter, media advisor, speechwriter, political humorist, and public relations expert. Carpenter stood at the forefront of the Women's Movement when it began and never wavered from her platform. Her projects and causes ranged from supporting high tech to fighting cancer. Often called the "funniest woman in politics", she was in demand as a public speaker until her death.

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very good overview of the life of Lady Bird Johnson, one of our best and more interesting First Ladies.