I’d like to learn more about his life, his path to the presidency, and his conservationism.
I’d also be interested in reading about the history of the Department of the Interior.
Thank you!
Here at the TR Center, we usually recommend people start with Theodore Roosevelt: A Strenuous Life (2002) by Kathleen Dalton, because it is simultaneously comprehensive and digestible.
In terms of focusing on the presidency specifically, a good volume is The Presidency of Theodore Roosevelt (1991) by Lewis L. Gould.
For conservationism, we recommend The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America (2009) by Douglas Brinkley.
The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt by Edmund Morris is great for exactly what you’re looking for. There is also the sequels which I haven’t read personally but which are critically acclaimed as well.
Ken Burns also made a great documentary about TR and FDR which covers some of his early life.
I have to recommend “Mornings on Horseback” by David McCullough because he is my favorite author of all time.
“River of Doubt” by Candice Millard is another great one.
As is “The Bully Pulpit” by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
I personally like to get my books used at Thriftbooks if you’re looking for an affordable place to get some good biographies!