The Lincolns: A Scrapbook Look at Abraham and Mary

Fleming, Candace. 2008. THE LINCOLNS: A SCRAPBOOK LOOK AT ABRAHAM AND MARY. New York: Random House. ISBN 9780375836183 [Suggested Grade Levels 5 and up]

REVIEW
Everything about this book is top notch, from the artful and purposeful display of the numerous photos of the time period of Abe and Mary Lincoln’s lives to the index that documents every detail referenced in the text, including actual quotations and physical objects associated with the Lincolns. Fleming, through THE LINCOLNS, demonstrates what a leader and statesmen can do while battling the political unrest and the role of a husband. The author of this highly-informative nonfiction book does not analyze the Civil War or the roles the Lincolns played (outside of Abraham being president) … she allows readers to draw many of their own conclusions. The text (old-fashion, type-writer style) helps the reader move away from the 21st century and into the backwoods of Kentucky, 1809.

Although I can see the appeal it will have for the younger group of students, it will fit perfectly in the 8th grade curriculum that involves all of American History, especially that concerning the presidents and first ladies.

CONNECTIONS
Young readers can make a ‘timeline’ or mini-scrapbook of their own lives. Or students can research several of the presidents and celebrate Presidents’ Day with this better understanding. Kid researchers can look at the unique relationships all the presidents have had with their wives.

RELATED BOOKS
Other books written by Candace Fleming:
BEN FRANKLINE’S ALMANAC: BEING A TRUE ACCOUNT OF THE GOOD GENTLEMAN’S LIFE. ISBN 9780689835490
OUR ELEANOR: A SCRAPEBOOK LOOK AT ELEANOR ROOSEVELT’S REMARKABLE LIFE. ISBN 9780689865442

By Kathlene A. Goldin