Powerful ideas from top nonfiction
Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trial
Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt summary
Brief summary
No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt by Doris Kearns Goodwin is a captivating historical account of the extraordinary partnership between Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt during the tumultuous years of World War II. It offers a deep insight into their leadership and the profound impact they had on shaping the course of history.
Topics
Table of Contents
No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Roosevelts
In No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt by Doris Kearns Goodwin, we are taken on a journey through the extraordinary lives of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. The book starts with the couple's early years and their marriage, which was marked by Franklin's political ambitions and Eleanor's growing independence. Despite Franklin's infidelity and polio diagnosis, the couple's partnership remained strong and influential.
The narrative then shifts to the Great Depression, during which Franklin's presidency was marked by the implementation of the New Deal, a series of programs aimed at providing relief, recovery, and reform. Eleanor, in her role as the First Lady, emerged as a powerful advocate for social justice, championing causes such as civil rights, women's rights, and labor reform.
World War II and the Home Front
As the world plunged into World War II, the Roosevelts faced the challenge of leading the nation through crisis. Franklin's focus was on the war effort, while Eleanor continued her advocacy work, particularly for the rights of women and African Americans. The book provides an intimate look at their respective roles during these tumultuous times.
Goodwin also explores the impact of the war on the home front, detailing the experiences of ordinary Americans. The country underwent significant social and economic changes, with women entering the workforce in large numbers and the economy shifting to support the war effort. The Roosevelts' leadership during this period was critical in navigating the nation through these transformations.
Challenges and Personal Loss
Despite their outward image of strength and resilience, the Roosevelts faced numerous personal challenges. Franklin's health continued to deteriorate, and the strain of his presidency took a toll on both him and Eleanor. The death of their close friend and advisor, Louis Howe, further added to their emotional burden.
Tragedy struck the Roosevelt family when their youngest son, Quentin, was killed in action during the war. Despite this devastating loss, the couple continued to fulfill their public duties, with Eleanor taking on an increasingly active role in her husband's administration.
Legacy and Enduring Impact
In the final part of the book, Goodwin reflects on the Roosevelts' enduring legacy. Franklin Roosevelt's leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, as well as his vision for a more just society, solidified his place as one of America's greatest presidents. Eleanor Roosevelt, too, left a lasting impact, not only as the longest-serving First Lady but also as a tireless advocate for human rights.
In conclusion, No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt offers a rich and insightful portrayal of a remarkable couple who led the nation through some of its most challenging times. Goodwin's narrative skillfully intertwines the personal and political, providing a nuanced understanding of the Roosevelts' complex relationship and their profound impact on American history.
How do we create content on this page?
More knowledge in less time
Read or listen
Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
Find your next read
Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
Shortcasts New
We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.
What is No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt about?
No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt by Doris Kearns Goodwin explores the unique partnership between Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt during World War II. Goodwin delves into the political and personal challenges they faced, and how they worked together to lead the country through a time of crisis. It offers a fascinating insight into a pivotal period in American history.
No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Review
No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt (1994) delves into the intertwined lives of one of America's most influential couples during World War II, offering a fascinating look at their leadership and personal dynamics. Here’s why this book is worth your time:
- Unveiling the Roosevelts' complex relationship and the challenges they faced, it provides a nuanced portrayal of their impact on history.
- Highlighting the role of Eleanor Roosevelt in shaping policy and public opinion, it sheds light on a remarkable woman's influence.
- Through rich historical detail and compelling storytelling, this book transforms a biographical account into a riveting narrative that captivates readers till the end.
Who should read No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt?
History enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of the Roosevelt era
Readers interested in the dynamics of power and influence within a marriage and a presidency
Those who appreciate well-researched and engaging biographies
Categories with No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt
Book summaries like No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt
People ❤️ Blinkist
Sven O.
It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.
Thi Viet Quynh N.
Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.
Jonathan A.
Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.
Renee D.
Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.
People also liked these summaries
4.7 Stars
Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
32 Million
Downloads on all platforms
10+ years
Experience igniting personal growth
No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt FAQs
What is the main message of No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt?
The main message of No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt is the extraordinary leadership of the Roosevelts during WWII.
How long does it take to read No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt?
Reading No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt takes time, but the Blinkist summary can be read in a snap.
Is No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt a good book? Is it worth reading?
No Ordinary Time is worth reading for its gripping account of the Roosevelts' wartime leadership.
Who is the author of No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt?
The author of No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt is Doris Kearns Goodwin.
What to read after No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt?
If you're wondering what to read next after No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Trial of Henry Kissinger by Christopher Hitchens
- In Pursuit of the Unknown by Ian Stewart
- The Sleepwalkers by Christopher Clark
- I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
- A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
- ISIS by Michael Weiss and Hassan Hassan
- Bloodlands by Timothy Snyder
- Gutenberg the Geek by Jeff Jarvis
- The True Believer by Eric Hoffer
- Genome by Matt Ridley