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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Entertainment
Charles Kaiser

Unlikely Heroes review: the advisers who helped FDR shape America

FDR Frances Perkins Franklin Delano Roosevelt Franklin D Roosevelt Henry Wallace Adolf Hitler Manhattan United States
On 6 June 1933, Franklin D Roosevelt signs a bill at the White House. Frances Perkins, secretary of labor, stands behind the president.
On 6 June 1933, Franklin D Roosevelt signs a bill at the White House. Frances Perkins, secretary of labor, stands behind the president. Photograph: AP

No modern American political era has been the subject of more books than the 12 years in which Franklin Delano Roosevelt was president. But Derek Leebaert’s personality-driven account of the life and times of our greatest president quickly convinces us there is a place for one more compelling volume.

Leebaert’s formal focus is on the four people many agree were the most important deputies to FDR:

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