First Mothers (review)

Gherman takes readers on a quick stroll through this gallery of presidential mothers, pausing to speculate on the kind of influence each woman may have had on her son. A unique adjective in the heading of each entry encapsulates a notable trait: "The Affectionate Mother" of James Madison was known for her warmth and social egalitarianism; "The Brave Mother" of Andrew Jackson helped negotiate her captured sons' release in the Revolutionary War; "The Protective Mother" of Rutherford Hayes "decided to educate Ruddy and his sister at home, rarely letting them out of her sight." Most entries comprise a single page, but some share space and a few earn a double spread. Downing's art varies from realistic historically tinged images to the funny but respectful cartoon style of Michael Emberly. Brief comic-book panels make an occasional appearance, and First Mother Mary Ball Washington (not a candidate for Mother of the Year) sticks her opinionated head in from time to time. A bibliography is appended. It remains now to be seen whether this book will last another four years, or require a revised edition as of November 6th.