nKirstin Downeys lively, substantive and--dare I say--inspiring new biography of Perkins . . . not only illuminates Perkins career but also deepens the known contradictions of Roosevelts character. --Maureen Corrigan, NPR Fresh Air nOne of Franklin Delano Roosevelts closest friends and the first female secretary of labor, Perkins capitalized on the presidents political savvy and popularity to enact most of the Depression-era programs that are today considered essential parts of the countrys social safety network.n