  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 03/01/2018 Gr 2–5—In this lengthy narrative, Bowman recounts the tale of Abraham Lincoln's almost-duel in 1842, when he served as a member of the Illinois House of Representatives. In an effort to prove that everyone makes mistakes and to exemplify the power of an apology, the author details a provocative letter that Lincoln submitted to a newspaper anonymously. One thing led to another and Lincoln was challenged to a duel. Bowman adds levity and appeal through the use of a Midwestern dialect, second-person point of view, and figurative language that readily evokes time and place. Schindler's illustrations, done in watercolor and ink, are a perfect accompaniment to this moralistic story. Back matter includes additional information about mudslinging, the Aunt Rebecca Letters (as the anonymous letters were known), James Shields, the Illinois Banking Crisis, the author's rationale for the book, and suggestions for further reading. VERDICT An additional purchase for history buffs and Lincoln aficionados.—Lynn Van Auken, Oak Bluffs School, MA - Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 03/01/2018 This lively, engaging book showcases a lesser-known, illuminating episode from Abraham Lincoln’s prepresidential life. It’s 1842 and “Springfield’s favorite joke-telling, story-spinning, honest-to-the-bone lawyer” finds himself in hot water. Concerned a new tax plan by political opponent James Shields “would hurt poor folks,” Lincoln, rather than address Shields directly, pens a newspaper letter, complaining about the plan and insulting Shields personally, but he signs it “Aunt Rebecca.” When others follow suit, Shields grows increasingly angry, and when Lincoln doesn’t apologize for his revealed role in the letters, Shields challenges him to a duel. Lincoln resolves to reestablish civility and avert tragedy, but how? Bowman’s conversational, folksy reader-directed paragraphs incorporate droll, dramatic, and suspenseful touches that will likely hold readers’ interest, despite the text-heavy pages. Meanwhile, Schindler’s intricate, expressive watercolor-and-ink illustrations lend further vibrancy. Here Bowman (Step Right Up, 2016) presents a more relatable Lincoln—one capable of making mistakes and learning from them—and, in the process, reveals characteristics that would inform his eventual presidency and approach to issues. Appended material provides additional background and further resources. - Copyright 2018 Booklist. Loading...
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