Exploring the White House: Inside America's Most Famous Home
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- $5.99
Publisher Description
#1 New York Times bestselling author Kate Andersen
Brower shares a special inside look into the most famous home in America—and
the lives of hardworking staff members and first ladies who’ve maintained it.
Have you ever wondered what exactly goes on inside
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? Sure, the president of the United States works and
resides there, but do you know who helps keep this historic house running?
It’s
no simple task, especially when there are important state events and foreign
dignitaries—in addition to presidential pups, mischievous children, and even a couple
of ghosts. And its Residence workers and first ladies make sure everything is in
check and running smoothly.
Featuring fascinating photos, fun facts, and memorable
quotes from the residents and first ladies of the White House, Exploring the
White House: Inside America's Most Famous Home is the perfect read for any curious kid!
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
This chatty behind-the-scenes look at life at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue offers an uneven survey of its history and inner workings. Former White House correspondent Brower, who has written about this subject for adults, pays particular attention to the approximately 100 permanent nonpartisan employees, including the butlers, florists, plumbers, and chefs who keep the 132-room mansion running. The narrative offers architectural details, such as Taft's adding the Oval Office; shines light into the experience of first children and pets; recounts ghost stories; and serves up choice details about U.S. presidents, including their favorite meals and quirks. Though much of the read is enjoyable, a story about Dolley Madison is repeated, and Jackie Kennedy receives more coverage than other first ladies. While a chapter on race "Understanding the Past: Race and the White House" grapples with the history of a house built by enslaved people, it also treats racism as a historical issue rather than a systemic and ongoing one. Includes a timeline, questions, list of presidents and first ladies, and recommended reading. Ages 8 12.
