The Peddler and the President

The true story of the lifelong friendship between President Harry Truman and salesman Eddie Jacobson and its impact on the founding of Israel. This 48-page early chapter book biography for ages 6-8 shows the importance of friendship even in the face of difficulties.

Harry and Eddie were unlikely friends. Harry was 19. Eddie was 14. Harry lived on a farm with chickens, cows, and horses. Eddie never even had a pet! Harry was Christian. Eddie was Jewish. But they worked together very well. They operated an army shop in their hometown and later founded a hat shop together.

Even when they didn't work together, they remained friends. They wrote letters all the time. Harry went into politics, eventually becoming the President of the United States! Eddie was a salesman in Kansas City. Harry would shop in Eddie's store, and Eddie would visit the White House. Even though people like Harry's wife, Bess, didn't think Jewish people should interact with the upper classes, Harry never left his friend.

But after World War II, there was an international discussion about whether the Jewish people should establish a new country in their ancient homeland. A lot of people were asking Harry to support the idea. Harry's advisors in the White House wanted him to stay quiet. Eddie was conflicted. He was Harry's friend, and he was also Jewish. Eddie needed to have courage to speak about his beliefs, as well as trust in his friend to listen.