Bobby: A Story of Robert F. Kennedy

by Deborah Wiles, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh (Illustrator)

From two-time National Book Award finalist Deborah Wiles comes a compelling biography about Robert Kennedy.

Americans claimed Robert Kennedy as one of their own. They called him Bobby.

Lyrical and evocative text by Deborah Wiles (Countdown, Revolution, Anthem, and Kent State) brings the story of Robert F. Kennedy to life, with breathtaking illustrations by Tatyana Fazlalizadeh.

Bobby is set in 1968, with a grandfather telling his grandchild about Kennedy's life. Bobby was the younger brother of President John F. Kennedy. He became an accomplished public servant and activist in his own right. Though his run for presidency was tragically cut short on June 5, 1968, Bobby proved the value of empathy and grit. The story concludes as his funeral train makes its solemn journey from New York to Washington, DC.

Kennedy was perceived by many to be a rare unifying force in American politics. He was beloved by Americans of all races for his integrity and devotion to the civil rights cause. His life continues to inspire efforts for social change.

Deborah Wiles's Bobby will illuminate the importance of Robert Kennedy's life for children, parents, teachers, and librarians. Informative back matter is included.

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Picture Books, History, Biography Memoir, Juvenile

48 pages, Hardcover

Published September 6, 2022

About the author

Deborah Wiles is the author of several highly acclaimed books, including the beloved Love, Ruby Lavender and two National Book Award finalists–Each Little Bird That Sings and Revolution. Her first picture book, Freedom Summer, received the Ezra Jack Keats New Writer Award. She is also an NAACP Book Award finalist, E.B. White Award winner, Golden Kite Award winner, Jane Addams Peace Award Finalist, and recipient of a PEN Phyllis Reynolds Naylor Working Writer Fellowship. Her most recent novel is for young adults, Kent State. Her newest picture book, Simple Thanks, was published in 2024. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia. You can visit her on the web at deborahwiles.com, write with her at Storybelly.com, and follow her on social media platforms at @deborahwilesbooks.

Reviews

[Rick Hribko · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book on Bobby Kennedy, and I did not know much about him, so I decided to check it out. While the publishers grade level states PreK-5, the concepts move to pretty advanced content after the beginning of the story. I am particularly referring to the content about assassinations and I wonder how PreK-2 parents would feel about that. The historical context is really sets the stage for activism with civil rights, the Vietnam War, and farmers unions, and it is done in a way that inspires. Kirkus recommends age 7+, which makes more sense as that is 2nd grade and up. I think I would stick with that recommendation. Illustrations were beautiful with an old time feel to them as well as great depictions of the causes he was an activist for. It also includes further information such as where to see more videos, get more books, and look up more information on Bobby Kennedy, so this would make a great book to explore cross-curricular topics in history or biography.

[Dylan Coomes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great insight into the life of Bobby Kennedy who was also a very good man just as his brother JFK, he put in a lot of work for the American people and was taken away too soon. A great read for any age group.

[Kris Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little too romantic for me. That page about Indianapolis being peaceful made me lol

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely biography of Bobby. We need more picture book biographies for sure. I love the art in this one. Recommended.

[Carson Harp · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a super informative short biography about Robert Kennedy and his family. I think this would be a great way to introduce history to younger kids.

[Miss Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

an elementary and up picture book biography of former Attorney General and Presidental Candidate Bobby Kennedy from childhood to death.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short children’s book about Bobby Kennedy written from the perspective of a grandfather and grandchild walking to watch the RFK funeral train pass by.