A boy from Virginia becomes the first president Before he was the face on the dollar bill, George Washington was a shy boy with a hot temper. But George had character and adaptability. He taught himself courage and self-control. At an early age, and without really realizing it, George Washington gathered the qualities he&;d need to become one of the greatest leaders America has ever known.      Anne Rockwell&;s prose is dignified, Matt Phelan&;s illustrations are striking, and the details they reveal about George Washington&;s early days are fascinating, sometimes tragic, and always moving. Includes an author&;s note.