
Reach for this book when your child starts asking big questions about the faces on our money or the statues in our parks. It is perfect for those moments when a child expresses a budding interest in fairness, justice, or the idea that 'important' people in history were once just curious children themselves. Maira Kalman transforms a dry historical figure into a relatable human being through a whimsical, artistic lens that feels more like a shared discovery than a lecture. The story follows a young girl who visits a library to learn more about Abraham Lincoln. Through her eyes, we see Lincoln not just as a president, but as a man who loved apples, tall hats, and his family. While it touches on the gravity of the Civil War and slavery, it does so with a gentle, inquisitive tone suitable for elementary-aged children. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to foster historical empathy and encourage their children to look closely at the world around them.
Explores Lincoln's struggles with melancholy and the losses of war.
The book depicts the injustice of slavery and the violence of the Civil War, including the separation of families and the denial of basic human rights. Lincoln's assassination is mentioned briefly, focusing on the nation's grief rather than the act itself. The approach is secular and realistic, emphasizing the moral weight of Lincoln's decisions. The resolution is hopeful, focusing on the progress made toward equality.
An inquisitive 7-year-old who loves art and is starting to ask about American history or social justice. It is also perfect for a child who feels like an outsider, as it highlights Lincoln's own eccentricities and humble roots.
Parents should be prepared to discuss the injustice and cruelty of slavery, and to answer questions about why it existed. They should also be prepared for questions about death and loss related to Lincoln's assassination. The book can be read cold, but having a penny or five-dollar bill handy adds to the experience. A child asking, "Why is that man on the money?" or "What does it mean to be a hero?"
A 5-year-old will be drawn to the vibrant, folk-art illustrations and the fun facts about Lincoln's hat. A 9-year-old will better grasp the nuance of his internal struggles and the historical significance of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Unlike standard, stiff biographies, Kalman's work is deeply personal and visually eclectic. It treats history as a living, breathing thing that can be found in a library book or a pocket full of change. """
The narrative begins with a young girl noticing Abraham Lincoln on a five-dollar bill and a penny, prompting a trip to the library. The book unfolds as a series of vignettes and observations about Lincoln's life: his humble beginnings, his love of reading, his melancholy nature, his family life, and his leadership during the Civil War. It concludes with his assassination and a reflection on his enduring legacy of freedom.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review