What to Do About Alice?

Based on author Barbara Kerley and illustrator Edwin Fotheringham's 2008 Robert F. Sibert Informational Award Honor Book, this delightful iconographic-animated adaptation—narrated by Katherine Kellgren—tells the story of gallivanting young Alice Roosevelt, backed by bright colors and wonderful music by Ernest V. Troost. While Teddy Roosevelt might have faced down a grizzly bear, his infamous “problem” daughter Alice's spirited exploits presented more of a challenge. What to Do About Alice? covers Alice's upbringing (her mother died just after Alice's birth), move to Washington, D.C., with her father's new job in the Oval Office, her rejection of being characterized as a “poor little thing,” struggle with leg braces due to polio, and embrace of supposedly improper young lady attributes, such as keeping wild pets (including a monkey and a snake) and wearing pants in public. As time went on, Alice eventually became involved in politics, traveled extensively, and married…but never lost her penchant for unruly behavior, and therefore continued to provide ample fodder for reporters. An enlightening glimpse into the life of a fascinating First Daughter who loved “eating up the world,” this excellent program also includes a bonus interview with Kerley. Presented with optional read-along subtitles, this is highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: E, I, P. (J. Williams-Wood)