Book Description

Martin Luther King, Jr.'s ideashis call for racialequality, hisfaith in the ultimate triumph of justice, his insistence on the power ofnonviolence to bring about a major transformation of American society are asvital and timely as ever. The wealth of his writings, both published andunpublished, are now preserved in this authoritative, chronologicallyarranged,multi-volume edition. Volume Two begins with King's doctoral work at Boston University andends withhis first year as pastor of the historic Dexter Avenue Baptist Church inMontgomery, Alabama. It includes papers from his graduate courses and afullyannotated text of his dissertation. There is correspondence with peopleKingknew in his years prior to graduate school and a transcription of thefirstknown recording of a King sermon. We learn, too, that Boston was whereKing methis future wife, Coretta Scott. Accepting the call to serve Dexter, the young King followed the church'stradition of socially active pastors by becoming involved in voterregistrationand other social justice issues. In Montgomery he completed his doctoralwork,and he and Coretta Scott began their marriage. The Papers of Martin Luther King, Jr. represents a testament to a manwhose lifeand teaching have had a profound influence, not only on Americans, buton peopleof all nations. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

I have a dream
I have a dream that my son want be a black slave that he will be free. And saw my whife and my gran chudern ... Read more

Book Description

For the first time ever in print: The full John Lennon Rolling Stone interviews from 1970. Includes substantial new material, never before published.

Here, available for the first time in full, are the extraordinary interviews with John Lennon conducted by Rolling Stone editor Jann Wenner in 1970. With characteristic honesty and deadpan wit, Lennon discusses the break-up of the Beatles, his favorite tracks with the group and how they were made, fellow musicians including the Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan, his attitude toward revolution and drugs, and the tenderness of his relationship with Yoko Ono. Published on the twentieth anniversary of his death, and containing substantial material never before seen in print, Lennon Remembers presents a compelling portrait of a complex musical genius at the height of his career. Sometimes anguished and angry, often tender and poignant, these interviews are indispensable to understanding who John Lennon was and why his legacy continues to resonate today.

New foreword by Yoko Ono, new introduction by Jann Wenner. Includes never-before-published facsimiles of handwritten lyrics by Lennon. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Fascinating, Painful Recollections of the Beatles' End
In the "Forward" by Yoko Ono, she says, "There was no one like him and there never will be. And I miss him." If you are like me, I'm sure you will agree that these are the truest words in the book for each of us. All profits from this book go to gun control projects.

Let me describe what this book is. It contains a fully retranscribed and corrected complete text of the interview that Jann Wenner did with John Lennon and Yoko Ono in early December 1970, parts of which later appeared in Rolling Stone. Much of this material you have never read before. There are also reproductions of Lennon's handwritten notes of song lyrics from the album "John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band" that are discussed in the interview.

In the introduction to this new edition, Jann Wenner characterizes the material here as "a candid, often painful, running commentary on fresh and urgent matters . . . and a self-portrait . . . ." "[I]n 1970 the Beatles were the biggest phenomenon on earth . . . ." [This was] "the first time . . . any of the Beatles stepped outside of that protected beloved fairy tale and told the truth." John Lennon later said that he didn't really believe everything he divulged in this interview. But it sounds pretty real to me as I reread it now. This is a man in intense psychological pain, and who has been for some time.

What, then, is revealed in the book? Aside from the usual stories about drugs and sex from touring, what struck me as most interesting was that Lennon considered what the Beatles had been a fraud artistically. "We were just a band who made it very, very big -- that's all." "But as soon as we made it, the edges were knocked off." "I'm not technically very good [on guitar]." ". . . I don't like many of the Beatles records either." "The only true songs I ever wrote were 'Help!' and 'Strawberry Fields.'"

His other source of pain was the reaction that Paul McCartney and George Harrison had to Yoko Ono. "They despised her." "They insulted her and they still do." "Ringo was alright and so was Maureen [Ringo's wife then]."

The commitment to peace is described often, and without the anger, pain, and regret that show up with all the other subjects. You feel like that was the only area where he could continually be himself. The interview is laced with constant references to his need "to be real."

He expressed a lot of regrets about having been a Beatle. "If I could be a f . . . ing [offensive word shortened] fisherman, I would!" "One has to completely humiliate oneself to be what the Beatles were, and that's what I resent." The interview contains many stories about how the families of local politicians and police departments would invade their privacy in offensive ways to Lennon.

The interview also goes into the details of the Beatles' breakup, contradicting the public story originally put out by Paul McCartney.

Music fans will enjoy his candid comments about the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and other well-known recording artists.

On the other hand, he is encouraged about the future. He describes his new album with Yoko Ono as "the best thing I've ever done." He also finds his relationship with her to be rewarding emotionally and artistically. She is open to new influences, and helps him to be also. We owe her a debt of gratitude for granting permission to release this new book. It must be painful for her now.

His hopes for the future were the most poignant part of the book:

"Do you have pictures of 'When I'm 64?'"

"No, no. I hope we're a nice old couple . . . looking at a scrapbook of madness."

After you have finished savoring this searing dialogue, I suggest that you ask yourself the kind of questions that John Lennon was asking. How real is your life? Are you doing what you think is important? How can you start doing better? If you do this, you will be honoring the best part of John Lennon's wonderful legacy to us all.

Be real and be at peace!

Living with good and bad, I always looked up to you
John Lennon gave only two lengthy, in-depth interviews in his life. The first was in 1970 to Rolling Stone magazine and his final interview was given in 1980 to Playboy. Both are instructive to read, especially when you contrast their tone and content. The Lennon in this book had just left the Beatles and was trying desperately to convince the interviewer and the public that it just didn't bloody matter. Though history has shown Lennon emerged from the Beatles break-up much more undamaged emotionally than McCartney, the dissolution of his band was bound to leave some scars. John puts up a bit of a front here and I fear he doth protest too much, especially when he says he can't remember much about the Beatles and didn't think they were that great of a band to begin with.

In 1970, John was in the midst of his Arthur Janov primal scream therapy and he talks about this at great length. If you're primarily interested in the Beatles, then you might wish to skip over this section. The most interesting chapters of the interview are undoubtedly his thoughts about the Beatles and his individual bandmates. Read this with caution, however. This was the same year Lennon penned the visceral anti-Paul ode, How Do You Sleep? His caustic comments about Paul would soften a trifle by 1980, as he himself admitted in the 1980 Playboy piece. There is also some intentional untruths here, such as when John says Lennon and McCartney rarely collaborated on a song post-1964. He corrects this in his '80 recollections. He tells some wonderful stories about Ringo and how he helped George with the lyrics to Taxman in 1966.

I first read this book at the age of 8, when it was published. It's remained an integral part of my Lennon collection and still makes for some excellent reading. Whether you've grown up on Lennon or are new to him, this is an indispensable tool in trying to understand his mindset at the critical juncture of his life.

A Moment in Time
Yes, a moment in time. Lennon was mecurial, that is, his mood shifted over time and had several different public careers. There was the moptop Lennon in 1964, the psychedelic Lennon in 1967, the hairy Lennon in 1969, the drunk Lennon in 1974, and the domestic comeback Lennon in 1980. But in 1970, it was the angry Lennon who underwent primal scream therapy and tried to cut off all ties with the Beatles, badmouthing nearly everyone from his past in an effort to forge a new public persona: the Yokoman who wanted peace and to exorcise his demons. He exorcises them here.

Interesting glimpse into Lennon's world
Colored by the recent break up of The Beatles, Lennon Remembers can't completely be taken at face value. Lennon himself later dismissed many of the comments he makes in the book. Still, there are many sections where Lennon comes clean about The Beatles and his own problems. While it lacks objectivity, Lennon Remembers does provide a snapshot glimpse into The Beatles and their contemporaries that other books fail to do.

There's a boatload of bitterness that colors Lennon's comments about his working relationship with Paul McCartney. Lennon would later retract many of the things he said and elaborate on why he fibbed or didn't tell the whole story. For a fuller, more complete view of The Beatles and Lennon, I'd recommend Lennon's Playboy interview published shortly before his death as well as The Beatles Anthology. Both provide a bit of fair balance missing from Jann Werner's interview. Lennon himself was initially upset when Werner published these interviews in book form as he agreed to do them provided that didn't occur.

Wonderful
It was fascinating; I couldn't put it down. It changed my opinion of John Lennon completely. I'm 15 and before I read this book, I tended to view Lennon in a negative light. Although I still disagree with a lot of the philosophy he espouses in the book, somehow reading it changed everything. Reading this book, one can see the good person that is at the core of Lennon's tormented being.

John Lennon pours out his heart in this book. It's touching. The portait you get of him is remarkably intimate. It doesn't matter if all the info is right or not. The picture it gives you is John Lennon at the time of the interview: how he felt and thought. It's intriguing.

Jann S. Wenner does an excellent job as interviewer. A truly satisfying read. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Luther presented in the late-medieval/early-modern context
In Heiko Oberman's Luther: Man between God and the Devil, the reader is introduced to Martin Luther, a man who is arguably one of the most important historical figures of the two preceding millennia. In the book, Oberman traces Luther's life from his birth (born November 10th, 1483) to his death (February 18th, 1546), and he ably sketches the cultural, religious, and political environment that surrounded this turbulent era of reformation and revival. While Oberman presents a lucid portrait of the great Wittenberg Reformer, his chief contention throughout the book is that Luther can only be understood in light of the late-medieval worldview that (among other things) took the insidious (and tangible) machinations of the Devil seriously. For Luther, Oberman argues, the Devil was a constant adversary, and Luther detected his influence in nearly every facet of life - from the great to the mundane. It is this late-medieval worldview that provides the crucial background information for properly understanding the complex persona of Martin Luther the monk, professor, reformer, husband, and father.

The book begins by outlining the political and religious environment that preceded the decisive break between Luther and Rome. Politically, there was growing resentment by the German princes (and populace) toward what was perceived as Roman arrogance and world-hegemony. This antagonism towards Rome, coupled with an increasing nationalistic-patriotic fervor among Germans is especially evident in Luther's political manifesto, Address to the Christian Nobility of the German Nation, published in 1520. Oberman also demonstrates that from a religious perspective, the age preceding and extending into the era of reformation was one in which church reform was eagerly expected and sought after (particularly in and among the various monastic movements - a situation which proved to be a critical influence on the young monk Luther). The wealthy and powerful Church of Rome with its hierarchical structure found itself the object of increasing disdain among those who noted the striking contrast between the power and wealth of the Roman church and the meek and lowly Jesus. It was in this context of political and religious instability that Luther and his criticism of church praxis (particularly the scandal of indulgences) eventually grew into church-wide revolt and an ultimate break with the Roman See. Further, as a result of the Roman curial reaction to his challenges, Luther came to regard the Roman hierarchy (and eventually everyone who opposed him theologically) as inspired by the Devil. Against this backdrop, Oberman demonstrates that it is easy to understand how Luther could so vociferously oppose both church and state (i.e., the Emperor) - for Luther it was a confrontation between God and the Devil. Additionally, as Oberman traces Luther's development toward his great "reformation breakthrough," he notes the critical influence that Luther's hermeneutic played in his doctrinal formulations. For Luther, even before his decisive turning point, he emphasized that there was a center to biblical theology - Christ crucified. In order to interpret Scripture properly and to hear its message, it had to be interpreted from its center. In other words, "What proclaims Christ" becomes the final point of reference for Scriptural exegesis. With a Christo-centric hermeneutic, Oberman argues that Luther's "reformation breakthrough" comes once he "breaks" with the medieval tradition associating the "righteousness of God" as something disbursed by the church and contingent upon human merit, and he associates this concept with the righteousness that Christ grants to all freely as a gift. Oberman also argues that it was Luther's explosive personality, coupled with his ever present sense of the Devil's influence on world events which eventually led to 1) his endorsement of the massacre of the peasants during their revolt, 2) his refusal to unite with those reformers who did not believe in the real presence in the elements of communion, and 3) his strong renunciation of Jews in his later years. Oberman concludes his book by painting a more personal portrait of Luther, examining his relationship with his wife, his children, and his friends, and demonstrating that Luther was a passionate (and often irascible) man who understood all of life (including his intimate relationships) as lived before God and challenged by the Adversary.

This is a well-written book that draws the reader into Luther's world and helps those of us who come from a different era (and consequent worldview) to better understand the environment which produced the reformation and the man who was so pivotal in its implementation. Oberman's thesis concerning Luther's late-medieval outlook is compelling, and he demonstrates throughout the book (by direct citation) how this insight better explains the man and his actions. To substantiate his points, he cites Luther's own words, and the words of his contemporaries, which consistently reinforce Oberman's main thesis. As a whole, the book is an interesting read, made even more so by the fascinating pictoral illustrations that are scattered throughout the book, and which communicate the spirit of the age through pictures (many of which reinforce Oberman's thesis that the conflict was seen primarily as a conflict between God and the Devil).

An admirable biography of an admirable man
Fluidly written, and most importantly true to its subject, Oberman's masterpiece portrays Luther as the man he really was - the man between God and the Devil. To not get the meaning of that phrase is to not get what Luther was about or who he was. In this powerful biography Oberman makes it impossible to make such a mistake. Oberman depicts the turmoil, the angst and the persecution that surrounded Luther both physically and spiritually. He describes his stubborn, fiery character to stand for the Gospel in the context of overwhelming peril. He beautifully describes this blessed man who saw the verse, "the just shall live by faith," as the gateway to paradise and the maxim, "Simul Peccator et Iustus" [simultaneously sinner and just] as the heart of the Christian faith. There are lots of biographies out there, but both the author and the subject of this work stand out. For me, it was not just some book to learn more about the historical events of the reformation, but in the course of reading Oberman's description of Luther's simple words, "Simul Peccator et Iustus" I found transforming grace. It can do the same for you.

SOLI DEO GLORIA

Great Material but Not a Smooth Read
Oberman obviously writes as a scholar and provides wonderful context, sensitive and nuanced interpretation, and at times wonderful quotes. My main criticism of the book is that it tends to read a little more like a text book than a biography. This book may be better for the serious history student than for the more casual reader.

Great Work on Luther
Oberman arranges his biography more on a thematic basis than more traditional biographies, yet it is a great read and excellent work of scholarship. Oberman explores the deeply religious Luther who felt himself in a constant state of war with the Devil. Consequently, many of his actions take on new understandings in this light. Excellent work.

don't let the picture scare you
this is one of the finest if not the finest biographies on the life of Martin Luther. it may well go down as the authentic biography for seminary students....oberman's thesis is that luther stood before God and the devil, waging a war for luther's soul....historically one cannot deny luther's depressions which often alienated friend and foe alike...depressions are oppressions of demonic activity but not possessions...this ongoing battle lead luther to find the only solace he could find in this life, the safety and surety of the cross which lead him to the theologia crucis (theology of the cross). while this book's scholarship is breathtaking, it is easy to read because luther's spiritual battles are too fascinating to be obscured. This book shows that luther often failed in his battle with the devil, but knew that the war had already been won on calvary and that is the joy for all christians. Luther's last written words, he lapsed from latin to german and said, "Wir send Bettlers. Das ist wahr." yes, brother martin, we are beggars, and that's the truth. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

It Tells About...
This book tells all about Abraham Lincoln and his adventures in the Civil War. This was a great book and I hope you enjoy it.

Good Intro for Preschoolers
My four year olds really liked this book and Adler's book on George Washington. We have looked at some of the other books in the series, and the subject matter in some others seems too old for preschoolers. My preschoolers were interested in the Lincoln and Washington books because they liked hearing about presidents and (because they are boys!) wars. But one caution about the Lincoln book: be prepared to talk about Lincoln getting shot (there's an illustration of this happening). Also, the book discusses slavery and depicts a slave auction. The pictures are as innocuous as possible, and my children were not upset, but you should plan in advance for how you are going to introduce this piece of history in an age appropriate way.

Don't waste your money on this book!
Don't bother to buy this book. David Adler merely collectsfacts about the life of Abraham Lincoln and connects them together. Alist of facts do not a story make! Lincoln was a fascinating man, with a sense of humor and a strong will and an honest character who seems to have truly cared for others. None of this comes out in Adler's books. Not even listed as facts in his boring way. I gave the book one star because the artist shouldn't be punished for illustrating the wrong book. But the people in the pictures are barely identifiable. Buy another biography, like Abraham Lincoln, which won a Caldicot award and has been around for decades. I doubt Adler's book will last that long.

Great beginner biography
Perfect biography for first through fourth graders. Adorablecartoon pictures and packed with information. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Gimme Some Truth!
This book does a good job of covering John Lennon's life from his youth in Liverpool to his meteoric rise to fame as an artist and later as a political activist.

John Lennon was a very complex man.Brilliant and high-spirited, the "Chief Beatle," the man who founded the world's greatest band and who made the world listen by the time he was 23 has commanded the world's attention once again.Readers will come away Imagining the world through John's works.

Fascinating and pure Lennon.
This book can teach you a lot about John Lennon, from his childhood to his political views. Even if you don't like John Lennon as a person, you can't help but to be moved by his views.He was right in everything he said andis truly missed.

Just what the title says "in his own words"
I read this book "In His Own Words" last summer and I really enjoyed it. I keep it on the nightstand by my bed and look at every now and again. The book isn't one he wrote but a complilation of things he's saidand his opinions. The book is funny in some places and well...not funny inothers. I recomend this book for anyone who likes John Lennon, or wants tolearn a bit about him. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"At a trial events are often seen in a distorted perspective. A violent event has taken place, and we work backwards from it, considering primarily the evidence bearing on that event. If we work forwards in a natural sequence, from a natural starting point, this evidence may wear a very different appearance." These words from mystery writer Julian Symons are theinspiration for this evenhanded, chronological approach to the paired stories of Charles Lindbergh, whose child was kidnapped and murdered in 1932, and Bruno Richard Hauptmann, who was tried, convicted, and executed for the crime. In a quietly affecting style, Ludovic Kennedy acquaints us with the characters of Lindbergh and Hauptmann in the years before their fates intertwined. Then he outlines the chain of events that led to this textbook case of how to frame an innocent person for a crime. Kennedy wisely sidesteps the vexing question of who did kill the Lindbergh baby to focus on the unforgettable story of the kind and hardworking German carpenter who became a scapegoat for a country's guilt.

Note: this book was first published in 1985 as The Airman and the Carpenter, and has a new (1996) introduction by the author. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Don't Miss This One!
This is one of the best books of its kind in the world. The author does a wonderful job of stitching it together. This goes beyond a page-turner: this book will take over your life. If you are at all interested in the tradition of mock trials fronting mock justice, this is one of the most ridiculous examples to ever hit the American big top.

Amazing . . . disturbing . . . innocent until proven guilty?
As an avid fan of true crime, this book was recommended to me by my mother who told me to read "the original true crime book" (originally published as "The Airman and the Carpenter"). She was right! This book was terribly disturbing and really rocked my faith in the American legal system. I had heard stories about the Lindbergh kidnapping and how Hauptmann was NOT the kidnapper, but hearing those tales and reading the book and seeing everything in black and white are two very different things. The facts are astounding . . . people (including the "heroic" Charles Lindbergh) told outright lies and railroaded Hauptmann. His own lawyer basically said Haputmann was guilty and deserved the electric chair . . . NJ Chief of Police Schwarzkopf admitted that he would "do anything" for Lindbergh, including lie! It is a terrible shame how the media and the public crucified this man; he never had a chance. Everyone assumed his guilt from the beginning, and after actually reading fact after fact after fact that was blatantly ignored during the trial . . . it is disturbing and shocking. So much for "innocent until proven guilty" . . . in Hauptmann's case, everyone around him searched for clues that would make him look guilty, and if that meant fabricating evidence against him, then so be it. This book shows the justice system, the media, and the American public in general at its worst. I found myself becoming more and more angry and incensed as I turned each page, as people lied under oath, fabricated evidence, made up stories, and ignored evidence that would have cleared Hauptmann. I felt terrible for him, his wife, and child. I think people inherently believe that if they are innocent, everything will work out for the best and a judge and jury could not possibly believe lies and invented half-truths. An innocent man was put to death for something he obviously did not do. In this day and age, when a jury can find O.J. Simpson "not guilty," I think Bruno Richard Hauptmann should finally be exonerated and have his name cleared.

I loved this book!
This is one of two books that served to convince me that Hauptmann was in fact innocent. I am delighted to see it is back in print, and with a new forward too!

Richard Hauptmann MUST be exonerated. What a shame it could not be done before his wife passed on. ... Read more

Book Description

A redesigned issue of the beautifully told story of young Abe Lincoln, drawn from the early chapters of Carl Sandburg's original biography, Abraham Lincoln: The Prairie Years.
... Read more

Reviews (1)

A home-style, family book for everyone
If you enjoy history and want a clean read that will keep you hooked cover to cover than this is the book for you! I found this children's book a fun read that would be great for adults and kids alike if they are trying to rekindle their innocent, free-spirit days as a child! It takes you from Abe's youth to his adolescent and the history of his aduldhood. What a great read! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Facts?We don't need no stinking facts!
About 20% of this book is worthwhile reading.The other 80% remains historically inaccurate, mythological, or downright offensive.But I get ahead of myself.

In 1940 Ingri and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire won the Caldecott medal for their picture book, "Abraham Lincoln".Like many idealized versions of Mr. Lincoln, this book relied on a couple old standbys.Lincoln was born in a log cabin.Lincoln wore a stovepipe hat.Then it adds a couple new myths to the brew.Lincoln apparently was friends with furry woodland creatures.He fought pirates and carried a scar from a fight with them over his left eyebrow.Finally, the book disintegrates into absolute fabrications.Lincoln, according to this text, was rivals with Stephen A. Douglas for the hand of Mary Todd.Not true.He went to war without provocation specifically to free the slaves.Not true.But how much can you blame a story that was written in 1939?It's possible that back then children's non-fiction books weren't held to the high standards they are today.

Entirely aside from the inaccuracy of the text, the story is deeply offensive to African Americans and Native Americans.Here's a bit of what I mean.As justification for the destruction of the Sauk and Fox tribes (who merely wanted to raise corn on land that had been taken from the Native Americans thirty years earlier) the book says:

"His tribe had sold the land to the 'paleface,' but Black Hawk said: 'Man-ee-do, the great spirit, gave us the land, it couldn't be sold'."

Needless to say, the tribes aren't actually named in this book.They're simply referred to as "Indians".

And the African-Americans?Ecoute:

"The next day President Lincoln walked into the town, holding little Tad by the hand.An old Negro recognized the long, thin man with the tall stove-pipe hat."Here is our saviour," he cried, and threw himself at Lincoln's feet.And suddenly Lincoln was surrounded by Negroes, weeping and rejoicing as they cried: 'Glory, glory hallelujah'."

Totally aside from whether or not that actually happened, it's the accompanying pictures that really drill this image home.The stereotypical African-American with the wide white eyes and big lips is everywhere in this book.From a slave auction, where a mammy-like woman stands on a podium to the vision of a group of happy former slaves praising their "saviour", there are repeated visions of stereotypical blacks not usually found in children's literature.In fact, many of the illustrations in this book suffer from a variety of ills.Some are offensive (don't even start me on the pictures of the Native Americans).Some are silly.There's a shot of Abraham and his sister standing in the woods, stylized tears stuck to their faces.The picture reminds you of nothing so much as one of those 1960s paintings on velvet of big-eyed children, once so popular.Some pictures are poorly constructed.The last shot of Lincoln suffers from such a lack of proper composition and perspective that you could spend hours trying to make it line up.

And what 20% of this book is worth reading?Well, it's hard to get around the fact that there are shockingly few worthwhile books about Abraham Lincoln written with little kids in mind.If you want a fabulous book for older children then run, don't walk, to your nearest independent bookstore and buy "Lincoln: A Photobiography" by Russell Freedman.But for the little ones?As far as I can determine, this is the best you're going to be able to do.It does get kids interested in the life of Lincoln.And it makes him an understandable human being, with hopes and fears of his own.If you don't mind inaccuracies, the occasional poor illustration, and a tendency towards offensive images then this really is your best bet.

Absolutely Wonderful!
This book is in a word, charming. This book is a true story of the life of Abraham Lincoln, from his birth to his presidency.This book is educational and informative, without being dry and boring as many history books tend to be. Children as young as 4 will be interested, as well as kids through the teen years. Simply worded, but not babyish, brilliantly illustrated, but not unreal. Youngsters will learn and retain much about the life of one of our most admired, courageous and beloved presidents. D'Aulaire at his usual shining best! A Caldecott medal/honor book.

A biography of Lincoln for young children.
This is a children's book about the life of Abraham Lincoln. First written and illustrated in 1939, it was expanded in 1957. Most of the book focuses on Lincoln's early life. The illustrations resulted in the book beingawarded the 1940 Caldecott Medal for best illustrations in a children'sbook. It is a book that helps children learn more about U.S. history and agreat president. It is also a book that should be on the shelf of anyserious student of children literature.

Fresh, beautifully illustrated, and lively: a classic
This famous book on Abraham Lincoln (emphasizing his growing up) by the great children's book authors, the d'Aulaires, is as fresh as ever. A sparkling cover. Fascinating and charming illustrations, based on their ownvisit to the locations. Clear, absorbing text. Deserves it's fame. Awonderful introduction. Great fun. ... Read more

Book Description

Robert E. Lee was a leader for the ages. The man heralded by Winston Churchill as "one of the noblest Americans who ever lived" inspired an out-manned, out-gunned army to achieve greatness on the battlefield. He was a brilliant strategist and a man of unyielding courage who, in the face of insurmountable odds, nearly changed forever the course of history.

"A masterpiece—the best work of its kind I have ever read. Crocker's Lee is a Lee for all leaders to study; and to work, quite deliberately, to emulate." — Major General Josiah Bunting III, superintendent of the Virginia Military Institute

In this remarkable book, you'll learn the keys to Lee's greatness as a man and a leader. You'll find a general whose standards for personal excellence was second to none, whose leadership was founded on the highest moral principles, and whose character was made of steel. You'll see how he remade a rag-tag bunch of men into one of the most impressive fighting forces history has ever known. You'll also discover other sides of Lee—the businessman who inherited the debt-ridden Arlington plantation and streamlined its operations, the teacher who took a backwater college and made it into a prestigious university, and the motivator who inspired those he led to achieve more than they ever dreamed possible. Each chapter concludes with the extraordinary lessons learned, which can be applied not only to your professional life, but also to your private life as well.

Today's business world requires leaders of uncommon excellence who can overcome the cold brutality of constant change. Robert E. Lee was such a leader. He triumphed over challenges people in business face every day. Guided by his magnificent example, so can you. ... Read more

Reviews (43)

An amazing example for all to follow
After only reading the first 20 or so pages in this book, I already knew it would be a classic for my bookshelf. Never before has the example of one person so clearly crystallized what leadership should be about. Lee's wisdom and personal integrity allowed an enormously outnumbered and disadvantaged force to outmaneuver the Union army far beyond the Northern expectations.

Far more than a simple biography, Crocker uses bullet points at the end of each chapter to clarify Lee's leadership style for the reader. Only in "Leadership Secrets of Attila the Hun" have I seen a person's life so well translated into practical, leadership examples. In "Lee," however, Crocker takes actual, historical evidence -- rather than semi-fictional supposition, ala "Atilla" -- and places them in the hands of the reader as a living, breathing model.

I have seen a number of hyper-critical reviews on this site which seem to be based more on pre-conceived notions about Lee and the motives of the South. When you read that Union generals and strategy are far more studied than their Confederate counterparts, don't believe it. The truth is that in modern war colleges, the successes of the tactics and strategy of generals like Lee, Stonewall Jackson and A.P. Hill are studied, while the failures of Union leaders are set forth. Now, in this book, we can study the personal example of the greatest leader in the Confederacy -- Robert E. Lee.

Timeless Reflections of a Great Man and Leader
If you are looking for a Robert E. Lee biography, or a detailed historical account of Lee's civil war experiences, this book is not for you. The subtitle to this book, "Executive lessons in character, courage, and vision," is precisely why I recommend it to anyone interested in developing as a person of character and as an effective leader.

As a fan of military history, Crocker's use of Lee's civil war experiences as the primary setting for this masterful analysis of Lee's leadership was as informative as it was entertaining. Crocker also used Lee's pre- and post-war experiences to present a complete picture of Lee the man as well as Lee the soldier. Ten of the book's eleven chapters ended with concise, bulletized leadership lessons that highlighted the chapter's key points. Lee's leadership was not always perfect, and the chapters' lessons allowed me to learn from and understand Lee's failures and successes.

Crocker's expert use of quotes complemented his descriptive narratives and in-depth analysis to create an easy-to-read character and leadership primer. Consider the following examples...

* In a letter to his son: "Live in the world you inhabit. Look upon things as they are. Take them as you find them. Make the best of them. Turn them to your advantage."

* General Grant's recollection of Lee's April 9, 1865 surrender at Appomattox: "[Lee] was a man of much dignity, with an impassable face... my own feelings, which had been quite jubilant on the receipt of his letter [agreeing to discuss terms for the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia], were sad and depressed. I felt like anything rather than rejoicing at the downfall of a foe who had fought so long and valiantly, and had suffered so much for a cause, though that cause was, I believe, one of the worst for which a people ever fought."

* "...obedience to lawful authority is the foundation of manly character...As a general principle you should not 'force' young men to do their duty, but let them do it voluntarily and therefore develop their characters...Young men must not expect to escape contact with evil, but must learn not to be contaminated by it. That virtue is worth but little that requires constant watching and removal from temptation."

Robert E. Lee was devoutly loved by the men he was privileged to lead, deeply respected by the commanders who opposed him, and always recognized as a true gentleman by all who knew him. Read this book and you will learn why Robert E. Lee remains one of the most revered American leaders in history.

An Excellent Case Study in Character
This book is not a biography of Robert E. Lee, nor is it a history of the Civil War, although the reader will learn plenty about both. This book is a case study of the character of Robert E. Lee. In exploring his character, it becomes clear why he was such a great and beloved leader.

Lee was, first and foremost, a Christian. He understood human imperfections and made allowances for them, and he was genuinely concerned for the well-being of everyone - even the enemies against whom he fought. Lee also believed in rewarding and promoting those who did their work well. Knowing all of this is key to understanding his leadership.

Crocker also illuminates two mysteries about Lee, that, perhaps, have become clouded with the passage of years. The first is the fact that he fought against U.S.A. Crocker explains that Lee opposed secession, but opposed even more the idea of forcing the Southern states to remain in the Union at gunpoint. He considered himself a Virginian first and foremost, and when push came to shove, he could not take up arms against the Old Dominion state, where so many of his relatives and friends lived. At no time was Lee enthusiastic about the war; even in fighting, he sought to bring the war quickly to an end. Lee refused to permit his men to steal from or to harm any civilians, even in Union territory, and even though some Union soldiers had no such qualms about Confederate civilians.

The second mystery is his relationship with slavery. Lee opposed slavery and saw it as a moral evil. Even so, he wanted to abolish slavery gradually, because he was concerned that the former slaves should have the means to provide for themselves before they were set free. In this, he opposed the abolition movement, but he was no defender of slavery.

The description of Lee's surrender to U.S. Grant is particularly touching. This is due in part to Lee's concern for the well-being of the people of the South (and this was his ultimate reason for surrendering) and in part to the picture it paints of two honorable generals agreeing to terms of surrender like gentlemen. Even Grant was impressed with Lee's personal dignity, although not with the cause for which he fought.

Crocker highlights the virtuous aspects of Lee's character and shows them at work. The virtues, then, become something to be lived out, not something abstract. He ends each chapter with a summary of character norms that made Lee the great man that he was.

It was most helpful of Crocker to include a bibliography at the end, because the reader of this book is very likely to want to read more about General Lee.

Always Enjoyed Reading about Gen. Lee
Robert E. Lee was a brilliant and fascinating man. Just by reading this, you can learn to live by his wisdom. If I could be 5% of what this man was like, I'd consider my life a major success. For those who would fault his siding with the Confederacy, remember for him, it was a very painful decision, made when he felt he had to follow the wishes of his state. Enjoy his wisdom and put and prejudices you may have about him aside.

A Leader, a Legend
I first picked up this book as part of a project for school. Once I was done, my views about life and other people's character had completly been changed. Crocker uses the experiences of Robert E. Lee to draw an example that anyone wishing to succeed should follow. His use of Lee's own beliefs, triumphs, and failures to analyze human character is a great compliment to the history that is displayed throughout the book. The reader learns of American history during the Civil War, as well as lessons in persona.

I would recommend this book to both those who wish to learn a little more about General Lee, and those who need motivation or inspiration. The use of one legend's personal experiences and beliefs to set examples for the people of today, is a superb way of presenting the authors ideas. "Robert E. Lee on Leadership: Executive Lessons in Character, Courage, and Vision" is a classic that analyzes both a great man, and his ethics. Both aspects help the reader to better understand history, and human features. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Best Lennon Bio
This book amazed me on how accurate and truthful it was. It contains many many quotes of Lennon which supports every bit of information presented. I originally borrowed the book from a library for a school project and was very unhappy about having to give it back! I would have loved to have kept it. It is a must have for any John Lennon fan.

a wonderfully written account on the pros and cons of lennon
It is true that Lennon had much to learn about politics.It is also true that he had even more to learn about life.He even had much to learn about music (he would have been the first to agree with the last point),but he had something that only a select few people from his "genre" had,and that was desire to be heard.Naturally,when he was heard he had much to say.When he got the opportunity to say it,he had much tendency to speak it with words that made only sense to the ones who lived in his world (or at least wanted to).There were a few messages he made,however,that did not only affect millions of lives,but may have even changed it for the better.This was a power he began to realize during the height of his success with the Beatles,and it scared the hell out of him.Probably beyond what any of us could possibly concieve,it ripped him to shreads.Yoko helped much in the way of opening him up,but in using him as a puppet (as many did),she really only made matters worse.It was not until just before his death that he really began to realize that what he wanted in life was peace and good music.Not the peace of the world,but peace of mind for himself.The book Come together captures this emotional roller coaster ride better than any book written on the subject.Next to Barry Miles' "Paul Mccartney:many years from now" it is without question the most honest and well written account on one of the greatest pop culture stories ever told.And it is written with wit and wisdom,as well as sympathy for a man that was terribly misunderstood,even by his own self.Something to be read numerous times,especially the account on the "more popular than Christ" contreversey.Lennon is a true icon for this century,but he was also very human (more than most),and this book portrays this fact very well.

Here we go again
Everyone knows a book about The Beatles, or any one of them, especially Lennon, is a guaranteed sell/ source of income. And those who cannot resist will write one. Lennon's political "activism" is hyped beyond that it was. He was naive in politics, as especilly shown by his bothering with (being used by) Rubin and Peel, both of whom I knew, and knew for what they were.

This book is an interesting read.
I have been obsessed with the beatles and john for about a year and have read many books about them. It was nice to finally find a book that concentrated more on John and his political life rather than the break-up or drug use. This is a must read for anyone tired of the usual stuff. It has lots of great stories and tidbits.

Best Lennon I've read! SIX STARS!!
Wiener describes wonderfully, and with great interest to the reader, how Lennon inter-related with people close to him as well as events around him. It is an excellent commentary on the sixties as well as much of the seventies. Being exactly ten years younger than Lennon, I considered myself the prime age (13) when the Fab Four made it big. The "Summer of Love" fell between my junior and senior years in high school. I felt part of the times. Wiener, however, only demonstrated to me how much I missed, and how little I understood! COME TOGETHER is highly recommended not only for my generation, and my parents' (who thought they knew it all), but especially the younger generations who love the music, and want more. ... Read more

Publisher

"I fear it is now out of the power of man and in God alone must be our trust.No act could give me so much pleasure as to restore peace to my country." Thus spoke Robert E. Lee, a man torn between obligation to the government he had so faithfully served and the state he so dearly loved. Though many were the causes of the war, Lee fought not for the enslavement of man, but for the freedom of his treasured home. J. Steven Wilkins gives us a fresh look at the character of this man of God and the call of duty he could not ignore.

Available in January, 1997. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

An inspirational read!
The account of a great historical figure---a gentleman of duty, truth and spirit---a man of God. Yankee carpetbaggers, scalawags and liberals alike, be forewarned: this book may shake you from your nihilistic mind nap. As Robert E. Lee so aptly put it, the Southern States had "sacred principles to maintain and rights to defend, for which we were in duty bound to do our best, even if we perished in the endeavor". Long live the South and those who have fought and died to keep alive her character and ideals! Indeed, those readers 'educated' on a strangulation diet of revised history may be enlightened, perhaps even intellectually emancipated, by this grand book. Five stars Mr. Wilkins, 100 stars General Lee!

Lee's character: YES, accurate historical perspective? NO
Lee's example for living ranks among the finest of true-life American heroes, and this book clearly makes this point through its collection of quotes from other sources. The evangelism generously sprinkled throughout the text is probably a bit heavy-handed for all but conservative right-wing fundamentalist Christians; clearly the author intended this to impact an audience of children and young adults during their more formative years. Lee's character comes through, none-the-less. However, the author steps out of the bounds of "historian" when he mars this work by attempting a poorly-informed revisionist re-write of history. Wilkins is a slavery apologist, making claims that slavery was God's will so that the white man could bring savages to Christianity, and that slave owners were mostly fine & loving people who gave their slaves a living standard that was actually better than that enjoyed by the common New York City dweller of 1900. Go figure. A better choice: The Recollections & Letters of Robert E. Lee (by his son, Captain Robert Lee) gives it all directly from the mind of perhaps our finest American leader, and without re-writing a distorted record on American slavery.

Hooray for Lee ! Boo for Wilkins ? :-(
Any accurate portrayal of Robert E. Lee, certainly one of our country's finest leaders, should definitely move anyone with an ounce of common sense to an enormous appreciation for this most outstanding human being. Lee's inspiring faith in God, his leadership by example, and lifelong message is one of love and honor. His own words and letters best exemplify this fact, and this author's liberal use of them brings it all home in this short, succinct work. However, be forewarned that Wilkins adds his own additional preaching far removed from the Gospels, most sadly detracting from an accurate historical perspective on Lee by adding his own self-serving distortions on slavery. The historical record is clear: Lee found slavery objectionable and looked forward to the day when it would end. None-the-less, Wilkins tries very hard to rationalize slavery as something good, as if his sad excuses are necessary in order to make Lee look acceptable.... so far from the truth! Wilkins does our great man, Lee, along with the rest of America, a dis-service by his disgusting blabberings. Let's hear it for Robert E. Lee, and not taint his image with such dribble. Most other Lee biographies will serve us more fairly and honorably.

If ever there was a man who followed Christ's example....
If ever there was a man who followed Christ's example it was Robert E. Lee. This book illustrates such a man. It illustrates the strength of character that men lack in our society today....lacking even in our churches. This book is a must read for all men who are interested to know what a Christian gentleman is. Well done Reverend Wilkins. May Lee's example, which you have illustrated, set an example for others as it has for me and bring glory to God.

If ever there was a man who followed Christ's example.....
If ever there was a man who followed Christ's example it was Robert E. Lee. This book illustrates such a man. This book illustrates the sort of gentleman that is lacking in our society today, lacking even in our churches. Truly an example for all to follow. Well done Reverend Wilkins. ... Read more

Book Description

The result of six years of research and some 1,200 interviews, this book takes fans deep into Lennon's secretive world, from his traumatic childhood to his Beatles days to his hidden life with Yoko Ono. While the Lennon of legend enjoyed a gifted and inspired life, the private Lennon lived in torment, poisoning himself with drugs and self-hatred. The Lives of John Lennon exposed for the first time all of his various lives, from idealist to cynic, from ascetic to junkie. It is a lasting tribute to his brilliant achievements and a revelation of the price he paid for them. ... Read more

Reviews (64)

Certainly One of the Best Books About the Beatles
Goldman's portrait of John Lennon as a reclusive, drug-addled nutcase, and Yoko Ono as a talentless artist-manque and evil, manipulative harridan rings, unfortunately, sadly true. Refreshingly, this book is free of the gushing and fawning that mars the vast majority of other books about the Beatles. For the most part, Goldman is clear-eyed and sharp of judgment. Among other things, he skewers the myriad laddish fictions of Beatlemania, and has no illusions about the slightness of George, Ringo, John and even Paul as musicians (even Paul apparently doesn't understand the functionality of a major seventh chord!). Goldman also rightly sees the slightness of a number of the compositions on Sgt. Pepper, and yet is still able to gauge its importance in popular music history. He certainly has no illusions about the Beatles as men, yet can speak with greater lucidity and insight than most about the greatness, and limitations, of their recorded legacy. In short, Goldman is that rare example amongst rock commentators of an informed, intelligent fan.

On the downside, one wonders exactly how much of this book is unregenerate gossip being perpetrated by those with chips on their shoulders, for the music business is ultimately a cut-throat one, and the Beatles certainly have more than their share of jilted rivals and skeltons in the closet. Still, the general outlines of the portrait of Lennon and his mates rings sadly true.

In addition, Goldman sometimes gets carried away and overplays his hand, such as, for example, in his failure to see IMAGINE as the glorious pop masterpiece that it is (also, surely he is being facetious in suggesting that, along with Charlie Parker, La Monte Young is the other great musical innovator in American history????).

Note: this book is NOT recommended to anyone inclined to vertigo by exposure to a contrarian sensibility. In other words, most Amazon customers should probably stick with those otiose Beatle hagiographies which do little more than perpetrate the fictions Goldman so gleefully skewers in his book.

The Lives of Albert Goldman
I read this book when it was first released in the 80's and could not put it down, enjoying it even more than his previous book, ELVIS. Since Elvis had no pretensions about his public image vs. private (he's been called "the Howard Hughes of show business"), he received a harsh treatment from Goldman and it did feel like, as one reviewer said, Goldman "was picking on the rube." But looking at John Lennon, Goldman ventures behind the Lennon-Ono "myth machine" to expose a mad couple's packaging of themselves and the weird reality they really lived. I liked Lennon and loved his wicked sense of humor, but I also have to admit that madness also fueled his genius and Goldman's book filled me with more pity than anything else.
The only thing missing from the new edition is the article Goldman wrote about the persecution he endured for writing about Lennon in the first place (only Penthouse would publish it at the time!). By taking on the cult of rock stars, he ended up enduring the wrath of America's mass media and the rock establishment itself (Rolling Stone dedicated an entire issue to defaming him and U2, those peace-loving ambassadors of goodwill, wrote a song that included lyrics calling for his death!).

I'm embarrassed I loved this book so much
My only excuse for gulping down every word of this sewage was that I was only 14 years old when I read it and didn't know any better but to believe it. I had no reason to believe a biography would tell lies, esp. one that was allegedly as well-researched as Goldman claimed this one was. Though Goldman's attempts to paint John and Yoko (as well as many other people in their lives) as these horrible horrible Satanic and psychologically messed up people failed; every negative trait of John's he gleefully wrote about, every shocking story, disgusting anecdote, vulgar practical joke, bad public behaviour, only made me love and admire him more. I felt more and more that he really was just like everybody else, an ordinary human being with lots of flaws, someone even more heroic because he had to work so hard to overcome his sordid past and to bring his bad traits under serious control. I was so naïve I couldn't even read between the lines in all of the many scenes attempting to portray John or one of his friends as bad people or fools, like the insinuation that Yoko set up Paul's 1980 drug bust in Tokyo, or the scene where Linda McCartney called someone (David Spinoza?) to come over and help them with the recording of 'Ram,' where Spinoza later gave a sneering account to 'Melody Maker' about how Paul didn't know the names of any of the chords he was playing and that therefore he was a bad musician.

Finding out most of this book was a lie was like finding out there's no Santa Claus or Tooth Fairy, since I'd believed and treasured these stories for years, feeling that they made John more admirable and heroic since he had to suffer and overcome so much. Many of these stories are urban legends, like John and Brian Epstein in bed together in Spain, wildly exaggerated stories, unverified anecdotes, and just plain lies. Albert Goldman is like the boy who cried wolf; even if he is telling the truth in some instances, you have to doubt it because he's lied so many times before and been exposed as a liar in those instances. And there are an awful lot of times where Goldman depicts John as being alone, or with only one other person, like his Aunt Mimi or Yoko, and tells us all of the personal thoughts in his head. How would he know this if John was alone and never wrote those thoughts down, or he never expressed what was on his mind to the other person he was with?

Still, it was lively reading, a real page-turner, and even though I'm disgusted I believed every last word, I still vividly remember a lot of it years later. And it does provide a lot of details on Yoko's art shows and her custody battle for her daughter Kyoko, which most other biographers haven't had much information on. It's not totally worthless.

Er..
Me being a fan of The Beatles and John Lennon as a solo artist picked up this book at some bookstore. I started to read (as I always do before I buy) and felt sick afterwards.

Poor John Lennon. The author did something very cowardly here. We all know John could not defend himself against this attack and the author knew that.

How the author seems to know every detail about the supposedly affair between John and Brian is a mystery to me. He makes it seem he was in the room with the two.

If anyone can point me to an article or something of the sort that proves the book was a load of garbage or mostly garbage please email me.

rachel_rabbit2001@yahoo.com

Garbage; John is probably turning in his grave
I was lying in bed last night when I realized what an evil thing Albert Goldman has done here. He has taken the memory of John Lennon chewed it up spit it out and then stomped on it. Its disgusting. It has been proven that most of this book is garbage. John is gone. He is not here to defend himself against these horriable alligations. Any true Lennon fan shouldn't touch this book with a ten foot poll. I"m sorry that I did. If I could give this no stars i would. ... Read more

Book Description

Abraham Lincoln: the Great Emancipator, savior of the Union, and revered national hero. Jefferson Davis: defender of slavery, leader of a lost cause, and forlorn object of scorn. Both Lincoln and Davis remain locked in the American psyche as iconic symbols of victory and defeat. They presided over a terrible war that decided the fate of slavery and severely tested each man's resolve and potential for greatness. But, as Brian Dirck shows, such images tend to obscure the larger visions that compelled both men to pursue policies and actions that resulted in such a devastating national tragedy.

Going well beyond most conventional accounts, Dirck examines Lincoln's and Davis's respective ideas concerning national identity, highlighting the strengths and shortcomings of each leader's worldview. By focusing on issues that have often been overlooked in previous studies of Lincoln and Davis--and of the war in general--he reveals the ways in which these two leaders viewed that imagined community called the American nation.

The first comprehensive and detailed study to compare the two men's national imaginations, Dirck's study provides a provocative analysis of how their everyday lives--the influence of fathers and friends, jobs and homes--worked in complex ways to shape Lincoln's and Davis's perceptions of what the American nation was supposed to be and could become and how those images could reject or accommodate the institution of slavery.

Dirck contends that Lincoln subscribed to the notion of a "nation of strangers" in which people never really knew one another's hearts, reflecting his wariness of sentimental attachment, while Davis held to a "community of sentiment" based on honor and comradeship that depended a great deal on emotional bonding. As Dirck shows, these two ideals are very much a part of the current national conversation--among citizens, scholars, and politicians--that has brought Davis back into the fold of great Americans while challenging many of the clichés that surround the Lincoln myth.

Ultimately, Dirck argues, the imagined communities of these two remarkable men transcend the experience of war to illuminate the ongoing debates over what it means to be an American. Through this engaging and original work, he urges a restoration of balance to our understanding--not only of Lincoln and Davis, but also of the contributions made by North and South alike to those debates.

This book is part of the American Political Thought series. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Continuity from 1787-1865.
Brian Dirck's new book on the U.S. and C.S. presidents establishes a surprising amount of continuity in American political thinking between the ratification contest of the late 1780s and the sectional conflict of the 1850s and 1860s.In doing so, it goes a long way to tie together the American Revolution and the Civil War.

In 1787, advocates of ratification of the federal constitution argued that without it, they Union would dissolve.Their vision of American Union was, as Dirck puts it (I paraphrase here), one of impersonal association, a community of strangers.Their opponents, the Antifederalists/Republicans, doubted that the Federalists' apocalyptic rhetoric accurately described reality, because the Antifederalists could not imagine that mere breakdown of the Articles of Confederation would destroy the America they knew in their hearts.They were at times downright blase' about the problems the Federalists perceived in the 1780s because of their sanguine faith in American nationality.

As Dirck shows, Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis had essentially the same understandings of America:Lincoln, the Federalist, and Davis, the Antifederalist.It makes for a very engaging argument, and one that will be of great use for undergraduate teaching.

The only shortcomings of the book come at the very end, where Dirck says that Davis laid the ground for the idea that blacks were depraved and inferior by depicting the Yankees (that is, northern whites) that way. (p. 239) I for one find it unconvincing that anti-black sentiment had its origins in anti-white propaganda.Secondly, he says that Davis' statement that the United States had set upon a policy in which "no quarter is to be given and no sex to be spared" had an innovative "sexual" undertone. (pp. 238-39) Yet, Davis' claim certainly was not innovative, but was a paraphrase of a claim Thomas Jefferson had made about the British king in the Declaration of Independence (Jefferson claimed that George had sicced the Indians, whose rule of war knew no discrimination of age or sex, upon the Americans).These are minor objections, however, and the book certainly repays a careful perusal. ... Read more

Book Description

The quintessential biography of one of America's greatest presidents. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

One of the greatest studies of Lincoln
Though it is dated in some of its facts and assessments,Lord Charnwoods classic study of Lincoln remains one of the dozen or so greatest books ever written about our greatest President.What sets it apart from most other studies of the sixteenth President is the attention it gives the intellectual and spiritual underpinnings of Lincoln's life and actions. It is, in short a work of philosophical history, not a dry recitation of facts. Charnwood is interested in the moral meaning of democracy and the scope and limits of democratic leadership. He performs his task beautifully. I , for one , found his old-fashioned Victorian prose a joy to read, and a relief from the cliche' ridden jargon that too often passes for literate prose today. A great book by a foriegn observer of America, fully worthy of being placed beside Tocqueville and Bryce.

Good, but not a great introduction to Lincoln
This was an excellent historical record of probably the greatest American that ever lived. However, it has long, complex, diffcult to read wording that makes it somewhat labor-intensive reading. The content is great, but there are far easier to read (and understand) books about Lincoln.

excellent and concise. had some uncertian facts though.
interesting in that it was written from a british perspective. i have read several biographies on lincoln and would recommend this book as an introductory volume for those who want to study lincoln, but, as an important volume for those who study general presidential history, civil war, and general american history. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Avoid the cycle of imitation, intimidation, and resignation.
Most reviewers have hit upon the highlights of this book. I do not feel the need to repeat it.

This book is a set of mini-biographies of the lives of three flawed saints. I emphasize the word &quo