Lincoln: a Photobiography

Lincoln: a Photobiography
Publisher/Date: Clarion Books 1987
# of Pages: 150
Reading Level: ages 9-12
Genre: Nonfiction

Summary:

This is the story of Abraham Lincoln's life. it begins with his birth and talks about his life living in a log cabin. he had less than a year of public schooling, but he taught himself how to read as well as other subjects. he grew up and got a job. he decided he wanted to be a lawyer, and he and another guy started a law firm. he taught himself law, and he became one of the best lawyers in the state. he married his wife Mary, and they were so in love. her parents didn't approve, but they were married anyway. he decided running for office, but he wasn't elected. he tried several times until he finally was. many people really liked him, and he became known as honest Abe. He then ran for President, and he won. During his presidency, the Civil War broke out which caused him a lot of stress and anxiety. he was very concerned about the war. he also had troubles with depression, and when his youngest of three sons died, he never really got over it. many photos are included in this biography of Lincoln, his family, and of the war. one shows how Lincoln's appearance changed throughout the four stressful years of being president. he ran for a second term, and was reelected. shortly after, he went to a play with his wife. during the play, his guard went downstairs to see the play, and John Wilkes Booth came in and shot Lincoln in the head. He died a few hours later. many people came to show their respects to the great man he was. Even now he is known as one of the greatest president's our country has ever had.

Who Benefits from reading this book?

Anyone who appreciates history will like this book. anyone wanting to know more about Abraham Lincoln will also benefit. It's written in a way that is interesting, and children will be able to read and enjoy. the pictures included are also very interesting to see.

What problems could this book cause?

This book only contains facts. I don't think this could cause any problems because Lincoln's life was respectable, and there is nothing contained in the book that could offend anyone. some people may not like it because it shows some of his "weaknesses". however, it's written in a way that i think makes him seem more respectable, and more human.

My Reaction:

I thought this book was okay. Biographies are not my favorite things to read, but this is a really well-done one of Abraham Lincoln. I thought all the pictures really helped a lot. you not only read a bunch of information, but you are able to see him, his family, the places he lived and worked, and the war. i found those very interesting. it made me appreciate Lincoln more, and i would recommend this book to anyone who would be interested in learning more about him and his life.