This is a very charming book providing a non-partisan account, written in verse, of all US Presidents.

The start of the book has these lines –

In the annals of time, their words and deeds endure, from Washington's wisdom to Biden's vision, pure. Their stories on the following pages to unveil, Presidential legacies, an epic, timeless tale.

All US Presidents, starting with George Washington till the current President Joe Biden are covered. For each President, a short bio, memorable quotes, period, and a summary of their tenure in verse is provided. There are many interesting facts I learnt from the book.

There are 2-3 pages for each President. The content in verse covers their background, personal life, values, circumstances of their presidency and key achievements.

The verses are simple and easy to read. This is a kind, factual and non-partisan account of each President. There is a feel good quality about the book. Definitely recommended!

My rating: 4.25 / 5.

I want to thank the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of this book. My review is my own original and unbiased work.

Verse and Valor: Poetic Reflections on Presidential Legacy is a very unique and creative way to loot at the different individuals who have served as President of the United States. This is a short book, a little over 100 pages. Each entry features a photo of the President, his years in office, his VP (if applicable), his spouse and children, a quote he was known for or attributed to, and a poem reflecting his time in office.

No one who served is treated badly; even those who many might consider our "worst" presidents. Each is spoken of reverently, lauded with praise for their various attributes (wisdom, courage, etc.). As such, many of the poems seem redundant, with some words used over and over again (e.g., legacy).

I know little about poetry, but was attracted to this book because it focused on the Presidents and I enjoy reading Presidential biographies. It is a very different take on history. I'm sure if you enjoy poetry you will like this little volume.

I rate it four stars. There were some typos which are expected in an ARC, plus several missing items such as Presidents with no Vice Presidents. This rarely happened, and in some cases is just wrong. One example: Gerald Ford is listed as having no Vice President. He did have a VP--Nelson Rockefeller, who like Ford was not seated in an election but due to a resignation. Some family information is missing as well; JFK and Jackie lost a child (Patrick) who only lived two days.

This is a unique one off fun short read. A poetic snapshot of the American presidents. I really enjoyed this. I felt it could have been longer with more trivia but for what it was it was fantastic. A little bit traditional rhymming in places. As an non american this is a good into to learn a bit about the presidents. It was told in such a unique way it made me want go learn more.
I would recommended this to anyone who wants to know a little about american presidents.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author for this entertaining 4 star read.