A Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer spins a historical tale around Lincoln's unexpected rise to the presidency and his surprising, but brilliantly calculated, choice of three ex-rivals as members of his Cabinet. Richard Thomas sheds his "good old boy" persona to deliver the strategies and party politics of Abe's public office with strength and vigor, and the great sorrows of his private life in a subdued, anguish-filled tone. There are a few dry patches, cataloging historic events, but Thomas never gives in to the boredom. The Civil War is presented in vividly dramatic detail, capped by an inspiring Gettysburg Address and a dignified account of Lincoln's assassination. A masterful bio, read by a master storyteller. M.T.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

A Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer spins a historical tale around Lincoln's unexpected rise to the presidency and his surprising, but brilliantly calculated, choice of three ex-rivals as members of his Cabinet. Richard Thomas sheds his "good old boy" persona to deliver the strategies and party politics of Abe's public office with strength and vigor, and the great sorrows of his private life in a subdued, anguish-filled tone. There are a few dry patches, cataloging historic events, but Thomas never gives in to the boredom. The Civil War is presented in vividly dramatic detail, capped by an inspiring Gettysburg Address and a dignified account of Lincoln's assassination. A masterful bio, read by a master storyteller. M.T.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine