Young Lincoln of New Salem covers the years of Abraham Lincoln from age 22 to 28. These are the years that he mostly spent in New Salem. This is the second book by Sam Rawlins.
What I am Reviewing
Young Lincoln of New Salem.
Sam Rawlins.
Dell Harris (illustrator)
Yorkshire Publishing.
344 pages, trade paperback
History, American history, Abraham Lincoln, President, Blackhawk War, Death
Long before politics beckoned, he spent six years of his life living on the rugged Illinois frontier in the primitive village of New Salem.
During the 1830’s he had been a store clerk, postmaster, and a captain of the militia in the Blackhawk War. But nothing in his life experience could have prepared him for what would become a journey into all things spiritual.
This is the story of young Lincoln during those crucial years from the ages of 22 to 28, what he would learn from love and heartbreak, and how it would both haunt and inspire him all the rest of his life.
The Details of Young Lincoln of New Salem
Oh my, I learned so much about Abe Lincoln. There was some aspects of his life that shocked me, but definitely learned a lot! Post office manager, store keep, business owner, adult learner, army unit captain, and politician. One doesn’t need to be stuck in one role in life. Abe was willing and capable of many different tasks.
I was horrified at the treatment he received from his father. Dismayed was felt at some of the setbacks he had in life. Pleased when he found true love and I loved his determination to learn. Good stuff.
The death of Ann put an odd spin on his faith, and we saw his vulnerability clearly. I wonder how much was Abe and how much was the spin the author placed on his experiences.
Good character descriptions filled the pages, as were the apt scenes that he painted of the countryside, the villages, and the people he met.
My Thoughts
I really don’t know what to recommend honestly. I’m a Canadian reader who respects her American neighbours yet is able to see her flaws. Young Lincoln of New Salem seems to have Abe Lincoln painted as a perfect paradigm of young adult manhood.
While I loved the details I learned, I was disturbed by Abe’s “spirituality”. I’d had vague knowledge that he was a bit like this, but having it such a clear part of his life, has altered my perceptions of him.
So I don’t know if I can recommend it. Definitely not for young readers, adults can make their own decisions.
Hmm – you have me wondering about this. Abe’s “spirituality”? I may have to see if the library has this one as I have always enjoyed reading about President Lincoln and have read many, many biographies about him. This one sounds quite different, almost a twisted bias? Hmmm. . .