Written by Ryan Tubridy, Illustrated by P.J. Lynch
Patrick and the President is a delightful book about President John F. Kennedy’s visit to his ancestral home of Ireland through the eyes of a young boy, Patrick. In 1963, when Patrick learns that John F Kennedy will visit Ireland, he is caught up in the excitement of the momentous occasion. He spends weeks preparing with his classmates to sing at the airport when the President arrives. His father also offers his help at a tea that the president’s relatives will be hosting. When the big day arrives, he is dressed in his best clothes and restless with excitement. At the airport, the class sings “The Boys of Wexford” and President Kennedy joins in for a verse. The children are so excited, but the president must get on his way. At the tea Patrick slices up a swiss roll and offers a slice to the president. He is surprised when the president shakes his hand. I enjoyed this book but wished that it was a true story. I was a little sad when I found out that this was a historical fiction. The pictures are great and add the feel of the time period.
Review by Marlene Roundy, Jim Bridger Media Center
Rating: ★★★½✩ (3.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-6
Patrick and the President
Written by Ryan Tubridy, Illustrated by P.J. Lynch
Candlewick Press
48 pages
Release Date: February 6, 2017
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
