Death on the River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Amazon Adventure

Reviewed by: Amy McInerney - Falmouth Elementary School, Falmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: November 7, 2017

Review

Author Samantha Seiple constructs a compelling account of Theodore Roosevelt’s 1914 trek down an uncharted Amazon River, the River of Doubt. Faced with dangerous wildlife, threatening natives, and food shortages, the former president and his companions faced life-threatening circumstances to chart a river that had never before been traveled. Seiple’s propelling narrative explores the treacherous landscape and the tense dynamics between the travelers. A fast-paced plot, foreshadowed by a prologue in which Roosevelt is “knocking on death’s door,” will grip even reluctant readers’ attention. Photographs from the trip support relevant text and enable readers to envision the state of the travelers. Seiple’s attention to detail illuminates a side of Roosevelt most students may be unfamiliar with. Extensive back matter, including Roosevelt's career highlights, sources, and excerpts from Roosevelt’s own account of the trip, support an already solid piece of informational literature. A sure bet for history buffs and adventure seekers alike, this book is a recommended addition to any nonfiction section.

Overall Book Score: very good