.: The Lion's Pride

Theodore Roosevelt and His Family in Peace and War Edward J. Renehan Jr.

 

 

The Lion’s Pride picks up where Theodore Roosevelt’s autobiography leaves off and gives us his final years. It introduces us to his children and their lives as they strive to live up to their father’s legacy. The Theodore Roosevelt we meet in The Lion’s Pride works to his final breath to see the America he loves walk up to his values. He supports all of his children in fighting in World War I, and loses his youngest son when his plane is shot down, while fighting to save the lives of men on the ground. He vows that even this most painful sacrifice is was preferable to enduring unrighteous peace. Mr. Renehan is tender and respectful as he deals with Theodore’s death, which came due to lingering heath concerns resulting from his journey down Brazil's River of Doubt just after he completed his presidency. He also makes a strong case that had he lived he would likely have won the next presidential campaign. Mr. Renehan is also tender as he deals with the alcoholism that troubles Theodore's children and takes the life of yet another son. Finally, Mr. Renehan takes us to World War II where Theodore Roosevelt Junior, now a general, wins the Medal of Honor for heroism on D-Day. The events of this book are poignant beyond belief. I loved every word.