would have guessed? On a fateful evening in 1865, President Abraham Lincoln and his wife, Mary, decide to see a play at Ford’s Theatre. It was a decision that would change history. After the show begins, the bodyguard leaves the Lincolns in their unlocked theater box to get a better view of the program. While the couple is left unguarded, John Wilkes Both shoots the 56-year-old president.
Lincoln’s story is a tragedy, but also a triumph. And it’s on his virtues that Ann Turner focuses her latest children’s book. The title reflects on a young Abe’s work ethic and desire to learn even in the midst of poverty. She tracks his life journey and successful venture for president. While Abe Lincoln Remembers is based on historic fact, it’s intended to be read as an imaginative exploration of how Lincoln might have thought and felt about the events that shaped his life. The work of fiction is recorded with a non-rhyming, poetic narrative that goes inside the mind of Lincoln how he perceived his own life. The book reads, “When I was little, the cabin we lived in was small with one room and one window.” Such simple observations speak volumes about the innocence with which Lincoln examines circumstances. The story ends with Lincoln and his wife heading to the play. The final scene shows Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln in a tender embrace. Following the tale, the author attaches a note that offers more details about the leader’s life both his challenges and successes. It fills in and expands on many of the parts of Lincoln’s life that were compressed for the picture book. It explores the Emancipation Proclamation, the Civil War and Lincoln’s reelection. Without the addition, the book would be incomplete. The artwork is traditional and reflects the historical nature of the book. American flags are strewn throughout; the red, white and blue symbol adds a nice touch. Overall, Turner does a great job of bringing this historical leader to life for children.
Margaret Feinberg is a freelance writer and ski instructor based in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
