Lincoln: How Abraham Lincoln Ended Slavery in America

Lincoln historian Holzer (Father Abraham: Lincoln and His Sons) offers a cogent young readers' companion to Steven Spielberg's film, Lincoln. The account opens on January 31, 1865, the day that the Thirteenth Amendment abolishing slavery passed the House of Representatives (after having failed to do so months earlier). Holzer considerably expands the scope of the story unveiled in the movie and shapes an intuitive standalone book. The author provides cohesive background information on the man who became the Great Emancipator, touching upon his boyhood, early legal and political careers, and family life. The narrative frequently incorporates Lincoln's spoken and written words to convey his true voice, while closely monitoring his evolving stance on slavery and racial equality. The momentum builds steadily as Lincoln runs for a second term, determined not to compromise slaves' freedom by bowing to heavy pressure to end the Civil War. After winning the election deftly and dramatically, he maneuvers the passage of the landmark amendment. An engrossing, well-rounded portrait of Lincoln as a humble, humorous, and passionate politician and humanitarian. Ages 18%E2%80%93up. (Nov.)