Here are the shocking, yet true, stories of presidential medical cover-ups from the 19th to the 21st century—the latest thrilling title in award-winning author Gail Jarrow’s Medical Fiascoes series for readers ages 10 and up.
Did you know President Woodrow Wilson suffered a paralyzing stroke that his wife and doctors concealed for months? Or that Mrs. Wilson took total charge of his presidential duties? Neither did the American public. Did you know President John F. Kennedy suffered from Addison’s disease and was heavily medicated for years? Neither did most people. Too often when a president is sick or dying, he and the people around him have hidden his condition from the public, wanting to project an image of strength and power.
In this fascinating and provocative new installment in her acclaimed Medical Fiascoes series, author Gail Jarrow explores presidential cover-ups from the 19th to the 21st century—from James Garfield to Joe Biden. White House Secrets provides the historical context to help young readers understand issues of media literacy and presidential candor that are more relevant than ever in the 21st century.
Book Details
Format:
eBook
Price:
14.99 USD / 19.99 CAD
Published: 09/30/2025
ISBN: 9781662681042
Imprint:
Calkins Creek
Page Count: 160
Trim Size: 8 x 10
Grades:
Grades 5-12
Ages:
10-17 years
★ "Jarrow is back with her fourth installment of the award-winning “Medical Fiascoes” series. This time, she focuses on nine presidents who hid medical crises from the American public... The content is engaging and easy to follow, even when multiple figures are introduced. The epilogue encourages readers to consider the impact of an ailing president on the country and the role the media plays in the conversation, perhaps prompting young readers to think about media literacy. Extensive back matter offers more to explore... History lovers and budding political enthusiasts will enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at presidential history." —School Library Journal, starred review
"The latest from Jarrow, an acclaimed author of nonfiction for young readers, unveils medical issues that have affected sitting presidents through the centuries. This work, a strong choice for young readers and adults alike, raises the question: What’s the best way to balance presidents’ right to medical privacy with their responsibility to govern the nation?... Each subject’s interesting, easy-to-read story appears in a stand-alone chapter of approximately 20 pages... Reveals secrets and raises timely, ethical questions worthy of vigorous discussion and debate."—Kirkus Reviews
"Well researched and succinctly written, each chapter tells a different tale based on secrets kept by presidents and those who wanted to protect them. An intriguing topic explored in compelling true stories and illustrated with period photos." —Booklist
"Jarrow’s latest book on medical calamities in history describes how nine U.S. Presidents were able to conceal serious medical crises during their terms in office, from James Garfield to Joseph Biden... The author’s writing style, similar to her previous book Ambushed! The Assassination Plot Against President Garfield (2021), is compelling, with just enough detail to inform and interest the reader but not overwhelm."—Bayviews, The Association of Children's Librarians of Northern California