Lincoln: A Photobiography by Russell Freedman

Genre: Nonfiction
Themes: War, Perseverance, Government
Grade Level: 6-8
Curricular Connections: History

After a short introductory paragraph, the book follows Lincoln's life chronologically starting with growing up in Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois. Following are chapters on studying law and the beginnings of his political career, slavery and his ascent to the presidency, the early Civil War and Emancipation, the end of the war, and his assassination. Lastly there are excerpts from speeches and letters, a list of historical places, and a short book list.

The book is filled with photographs on nearly every page of Lincoln and his family, places, the Civil War, political adversaries, political cartoons, posters, and even handwritten pieces from Lincoln. The pace of the book does not bog down for younger readers, and seemingly small facts add much. For example, readers are told that the president usually signed "A. Lincoln." However, when he signed the Emancipation Proclamation he signed his full name, saying, "If my name ever goes into history, it will be for this act." Readers see that even as it was happening, President Lincoln realized the historical magnitude of his actions.

Classroom Suggestions:

1. Lincoln: A Photobiography would make an ideal read aloud while studying this era in history. Readers of all levels would benefit from the information presented, so much of which is never covered in text books.

2. Using this book as a starting point, readers could go to the other sources listed to continue learning.