Hick: The Trailblazing Journalist Who Captured Eleanor Roosevelt’s Heart

Gr 9 Up–Few biographies achieve the balance of rigorous research and emotional resonance as well as this recounting of the extraordinary life journey of Lorena “Hick” Hickok. Hick’s early life was defined by poverty and severe physical and emotional abuse. Forced to fend for herself at a young age, she worked as a servant while educating herself and defying societal expectations that deemed her fit only for manual labor. Through sheer perseverance and a keen eye for observation, Hick became a celebrated journalist and one of the Associated Press’s top reporters, giving her the opportunity to interview the wife of then presidential candidate Franklin Roosevelt, a life-changing event for both women. Miller’s writing is exceptional, seamlessly integrating primary sources, including Hick’s often-daily correspondence with Eleanor Roosevelt, in a compelling narrative flow. The book’s greatest strength lies in its emotional depth. Miller plunges readers into Hick’s world, from the thrill of her career successes to the heartbreaks she endured. The coverage of her role during the Great Depression, where she traveled the country documenting the struggles of everyday Americans, is especially powerful. Her journalistic instincts and unwavering dedication to the truth made a tangible impact on governmental policymakers and the nation’s understanding of economic hardships. Readers will feel as if they truly know Hick and her passion for storytelling, love of animals, delight in her cars, and, most notably, her deep affection for Eleanor Roosevelt.