Miller, Sarah. Hick: The Trailblazing Journalist Who Captured Eleanor Roosevelt’s Heart. Random House, 05/2025. 384pp. Biography. Trade $20.99. 978-0-593-64909-1. PLB $23.99. 978-0-593-64910-7. GRADES 9–Adult. OUTSTANDING.
Lorena Hickok was notable in her own right. Born in 1893, when few women forged their destiny, she overcame intense poverty, neglect, and abuse, earning a reputation as a top reporter who could handle any story. But it is the revelation of her long, romantic relationship with Eleanor Roosevelt that makes her biography uniquely compelling. Miller’s scrupulous research gives readers a remarkable look at a passionate, lifelong affair, intimate glimpses of our most consequential first lady, and a nuanced portrayal of how a romantic relationship with a world historical figure can complicate a life, especially a reporter’s. Four sections divide Hick’s life into childhood, adulthood, with Eleanor, and after Eleanor. Sixteen pages of photographs divide the book. The exhaustive level of detail occasionally drags, but ultimately adds up to an astonishing account of a life, career, and love that followed no template. Back matter includes language note, author’s note, sources, and endnotes. Main characters are white. Review based on an ARC.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired