Abraham Lincoln

by Amy L. Cohn, Suzy Schmidt, and David A. Johnson

A distinctive picture book biography of Abraham Lincoln has an engaging tone and... read more

A distinctive picture book biography of Abraham Lincoln has an engaging tone and singular appearance. Authors Amy L. Cohn and Suzy Schmidt draw children into their narrative from the outset: “See that tall, tall man in that tall black hat? Know who he is? That’s right, he’s the man on the penny—Abraham Lincoln, sixteenth president of the United States.” Throughout the book, they make the reader or listener an active observer of Lincoln’s life while conveying his humor, his intelligence, and his warmth. They are also clear about his pain and frustration at events in the nation as the country moved toward and through civil war. David A. Johnson’s muted illustrations for the tall, slim volume were done in ink and watercolor washes. There are full of angular lines, echoing their subject, yet maintain a friendly, folksy feel that complements the text. Sources would have been a welcome addition to an otherwise notable volume. (Ages 5-9)

© Cooperative Children's Book Center, Univ. of Wisconsin - Madison, 2003

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