Fourth is an excellent series of young, brief biographies -- Initial Biographies (the others have been on Washington, Lincoln, Jackson). And the book is a competent, companionable introduction to the beloved rough rider,- a straight run-through from the boy as an asthmatic seven year old, challenged with the importance of hardening himself, until at fifty five, he had weathered the storms of fortune and become a robust South American explorer. The incidents of his life take on firm vitality and the facets of a turbulent political career are set in firm relief against the balance of an eventful life. The author's imaginative two-tones are revealing of the man and his times. Skillfully keyed to the age group.