Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and the Race to Save Abraham Lincoln

by Beth Anderson, Sally Wern Comport (illustrator)

America’s first female detective Kate Warne’s mission? Protect president-elect Abraham Lincoln from Southern rebels bent on assassinating him before his inauguration.

Abraham Lincoln faced a dangerous and uncertain future when he left Springfield, Illinois, for his inauguration in Washington, DC. Luckily for him, detective Kate Warne had his back, even if he didn’t know it yet.

Hired by the Pinkerton Detective Agency, Kate Warne used her exceptional acting and conversational skills to pose as a Southern lady to help uncover the rebel plot to kill Lincoln in Baltimore, the only Southern city on his inaugural train route to DC. Kate warned Lincoln’s staff that he faced a deadly welcome in Baltimore, the detectives urged him to change his route, but the president-elect refused to cancel his commitments. In a race against time, Kate and Pinkerton had one last chance. Lincoln would travel disguised as her sick brother on a night train from Philadelphia, secretly making his way through Baltimore in the wee hours of the morning and then on to Washington. Would they make it? Would someone leak their movements to the assassins?

This exciting American history picture book from award-winning author Beth Anderson, well-known for action-packed books on daring women, and illustrated by Sally Wern Comport in her signature mix of collage, drawing, and paint, brings Kate to thrilling and vivid life.

Genres: Nonfiction, Picture Books, History, Biography, Historical, Presidents, American History

48 pages, Hardcover

Published January 28, 2025

About the author

Beth Anderson, a former teacher, loves digging into history and culture for undiscovered gems, exploring points of view, and playing with words. She is drawn to stories that open minds, touch hearts, and inspire questions. Born and raised in Illinois, she now lives in Loveland, Colorado.

Reviews

[John Yingling · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very enlightening and moving account of Kate Warne's courage, insight and ingenuity in helping protect Abraham Lincoln from the assassination plot against him even before he was inaugurated as President. She is a woman to be admired and celebrated in American history. It may be a juvenile book, but it has a lot to say to us adults as well.

[Darcy Pattison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Need a great spy story? This is it!
Kate Warne, part of the famous Pinkerton Detective Agency, can go where male detectives can't go. Her ability to walk in places and converse with people where men rarely went allows her to help thwart a plan to assassinate Abraham Lincoln. Gorgeous, rich, detailed art complements the story, making it a true treasure! Bravo, Beth Anderson!

[Marsha Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every week I bring home twenty picture books to read and study. I only find a few that I consider truly worthy of a young child’s library. This week, Beth Anderson’s Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and the Race to Save Abraham Lincoln, was at the top of that list.
I love detective stories and mysteries. Hiding in Plain Sight is a historical story that includes a plot to kill the president, a real-life detective story, and a remarkable young heroine, Kate Warne. Just my cup of tea. Kate Warne was America’s first female detective, employed by the famous Pinkerton Agency. The book is a page turner for sure; we are always wondering what will happen next. Even young readers will likely know that Lincoln made it to Washington D.C. for his inauguration, but the mystery is “how.”
The pacing is perfect. There are punchy sentences and lots of page-turning phrases. When Kate is waiting expectantly for an answer to her letter, a single line – ‘A knock.’ -ends the page, keeping us captivated and turning those pages. Beth also asks lots of questions within the story, building suspense and keeping the readers engaged.
The scrapbook-like illustrations by Sally Wern Comport are detailed and evocative. They draw us in…and transport us back to the time period. We look and look again, each time seeing something more. So many good choices were made for the art. And, of course, Calkins Creek always does fabulous work with historical books. One of my favorite spreads is in Baltimore (I won’t say more – I want you to enjoy the surprise!) Everyone is illustrated in muted brown tones - except for Kate, standing apart in brilliant green.
The afterword shares Beth thoughts beautifully as well as giving lots of historical information. Beth writes about not underestimating someone based on appearances and giving up glory for the greater good.
Young readers will seek out this thrilling story of America’s first female detective again and again from their bookshelf. I’ve always believed the best books are for everyone. This one certainly fits that. My husband is a history buff and our good friend is an expert on Abraham Lincoln. I’m recommending Hiding in Plain Sight to both of them.

[Kathy Temean]

This is a spectacular book. Kids will love the intrigue and adventure. Teachers will love all the historical details, and parents and other adults will love all that and the fascinating illustrations on every page. It is easy to see how Beth and Sally poured their hearts into bringing us this gorgeous book that has shown light on Kate Warne, America’s first female detective. I had no idea that the Pinkerton Detective Agency had hired a woman to protect President-elect Abraham Lincoln when Southern rebels were bent on assassinating him before his inauguration. But Kate had his back even though Mr. Lincoln didn't know it then.

The Pinkerton Detective Agency hired Kate because of her exceptional acting and conversational skills to help uncover the deadly rebel plot to kill Abraham Lincoln in Baltimore. Kate warns Lincoln’s staff to change President-elect Lincoln's route and not go through Baltimore, the only Southern city on his inaugural train route to Washington, DC. But he refuses to cancel his commitments, so it's a race against time. Using disguises, false names, and the cover of darkness, Kate and the other Pinkerton detectives put their plan into action.

Readers will love how the fast train pace increases the urgency and pace, making the story feel almost like a thriller. I loved the details, such as the clocks, date headings, scenes, and words or phrases. Beth has provided an abundance of interesting facts in the back matter at the end of the book. She says, "Unfortunately, many of the agency’s records of this time were lost in a fire, so Kate Warne remains one of history’s fascinating mysteries."

Sally Comport's sepia-toned artwork immerses young and old readers in the book's drama. The framed pages, collage scrapbook style, detailed garments, and period furniture help show off the era. This very special book will be read over and over again, not only because of the story but also because it is such a feast for the eyes that children will love opening it up many times to see all the little details that beg to be seen again. Teachers will want to use it in their classrooms. Librarians will want to add to their shelves, and parents will want to pass this book down to their grandchildren. I wish you good luck with the book. Please let me know when the awards roll in.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Copy provided by the publisher


Kate Warne is a fascinating topic for a biography, and I love that the details of her life are set against a pivotal moment in her career; the protection of President Abraham Lincoln as he traveled through Baltimore, Maryland on his inaugural train journey. Tensions were high, and whispers of a rebel plot to kill the president were heard by the Pinkerton Detective Agency, which had the presence of mind to have the talented Warne on its staff. Warne, who often disguised herself as Southern belle Mrs. Barley, in order to overhead Southern sentiments, was able to travel without detection, since no one expected a woman to be an operative. Along with the other staff, the agency was able to foil the plot to kill the president, so that he arrived safely to begin his term. There is an extensive afterword discussing facets of this journey, the state of detective work at the time, and the role of women during this era. There is also a complete bibliography.


The most brilliant part of this book is the artwork and design. Vintage photography, maps, and documents are arranged in collages that preserve the feel and colors of the Civil War era. There is so much documentation that exists from this time period, and it is used brilliantly in this book.


This is a picture book that is perfect for older children, and the story it tells is fast paced and exciting. It’s a good warm up for readers who might need a little coaxing to pick up Hannigan’s The Detective’s Assistant or Swanson’s Chasing Lincoln’s Killer, which are a bit longer.


Warne’s story is fascinating, especially since there were so few women who were able to work in fields like this.Brush off your spy skills by reading Hiding in Plain Sight along with Moss and Hendrix’s Nurse, Soldier, Spy: The Story of Sarah Edmonds, Kirkpatrick and Himler’s Redcoats and Petticoats, Wallmark and Smart’s Code Breaker, Spy Hunter: How Elizebeth Friedman Changed the Course of Two World Wars or even Christensen’s The Daring Nellie Bly: America's Star Reporter.

[YSBR · Rating 4 out of 5]

In February, 1861, president-elect Abraham Lincoln embarked on a 13-day inaugural train ride from Springfield, Illinois to Washington, D.C.  He had many stops scheduled along his route through the divided nation, but only one was in a southern state: Baltimore, Maryland.  Detective Kate Warne had reason to suspect an assassination attempt was planned for the Baltimore stop, so the famous Allan Pinkerton hired her to investigate and foil the plot.  Disguised as a southern lady, Kate was able to eavesdrop on ‘rebel talk’ to confirm her suspicions and share what she learned with Pinkerton.  Knowing that Lincoln’s route was unchangeable (“The only way to Washington was through Baltimore”), they had to find a way to get the information to Lincoln, convince him of its truth, and contrive a way to avoid a presidential detraining in Baltimore.  Kate raced to New York and Philadelphia to work with the president’s entourage, the railroad, and the telegraph companies to clear the way, knowing that Lincoln’s life was in her hands.

Students who know history will not be worried about the outcome of this story, but it is suspenseful and nerve-wracking nonetheless!  Short, unadorned sentences and phrases move the narrative along at an appropriate pace; the terse writing style perfectly conveys the urgency of Kate Warne’s assignment and the bravery this 19th century heroine had to muster.  The illustrations resemble old-fashioned collage albums (which the illustrator’s note identifies as “scrapbook houses”) and the inclusion of various timely artifacts (such as maps) perfectly support the text.  Nearly every page spread features a small plaque with the date and location of the events therein, helping readers follow along chronologically.  Extensive back matter includes background about Warne, the railroads, and 19th century detective work and will help with any unanswered questions readers may have at the end of the narrative. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Few young readers know the true and dangerous story of the plot to kill the newly-elected President, Abraham Lincoln, before he could take office in 1861. I suspect there are many adults who don't know about it either. Lincoln's inaugural train journey stopped in Baltimore to change tracks and the plotters planned to ambush him there. The fate of the nation hung on the efforts of the Pinkerton Detective Agency and especially on the country's first female detective, Kate Warne!

Beth Anderson's stellar new picture book tells this thrilling tale in a you-are-there, suspenseful style,with cliff-hangar page turns and breathless pacing. She skillfully incorporates an amazing amount of historical information and fascinating details. This is a story fitting for any modern thriller and Anderson tells it with meticulous attention to accuracy and sourcing.

Anderson is greatly aided by illustrator Sally Wern Comport's use of scrapbook-style scenes using period sepia tones. She fills the pages with dramatic scenes, providing historical details, maps, train routes and more.

Back matter is extensive and fascinating on its own.

This is a must purchase, terrific read-aloud for classrooms and has multiple applications. Prepare for kids eagerly demanding more like this and on the topic.

[Zan Porter · Rating 4 out of 5]

braham Lincoln faced a dangerous and uncertain future when he left Springfield, Illinois, for his inauguration in Washington, DC. Luckily for him, detective Kate Warne had his back, even if he didn't know it yet. Hired by the Pinkerton Detective Agency, Kate Warne used her exceptional acting and conversational skills to uncover the rebel plot to kill Lincoln in Baltimore, the only Southern city on his route to DC. Though men in this era were often reluctant to listen to a woman, Kate was persuasive and eventually got the president-elect to agree to her secret plan: Lincoln would travel disguised as her sick brother. Join Kate and the president as they travel on a night train from Philadelphia, covertly making their way through Baltimore in the wee hours of the morning and then on to Washington. And keep an eye out for spies and assassins! This exciting American history picture book from award-winning author Beth Anderson, well-known for action-packed books on daring women, and illustrated by Sally Wern Comport in her signature mix of collage, drawing, and paint, brings Kate to thrilling and vivid life. Story Locale: Springfield, IL; New York, NY; Philadelphia and Harrisburg, PA; Baltimore, MD; Washington, DC.

[Julie Winterbottom · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s February, 1861 and Abraham Lincoln has just won the election, but the country is deeply divided. Lincoln is set to travel by train from Illinois to Washington, D.C. for the inauguration. But will he make it there alive? It’s up to undercover agent Kate Warne, the nation’s first female detective, and her boss Allan Pinkerton, to foil a plot to kill Lincoln when his train stops in Baltimore. Anderson tells the thrilling, true story masterfully, with spare, gripping prose that makes it impossible not to turn the page. Sally Wern Comport’s gorgeous collage illustrations exude a golden glow. Kids, parents, and teachers will find the story riveting (who ever said history is boring?). Older readers and teachers will appreciate the rich back matter, which tells more about Warne, Lincoln and slavery, and the fascinating way Pinkerton detectives used disguise, deception, codes names, and more, to get their job done.

[Xanthe · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent picture book history of a specific crisis point in American history when Abraham Lincoln was targeted for assassination on his train journey to Washington DC even before his inauguration. This book focuses entirely on the role that Pinkerton detective Kate Warne played in this drama and her heroic attempt to warn Lincoln's entourage and get the president-elect to safety. The art in this book uses an antique style that is very cool and interesting and the tight viewpoint on Warne's role gives it tension without bogging it down with details. This book is an interesting comparison to a longer book on the same subject that is clearly meant for older children, Murder on the Baltimore Express which pulls in many more of the players and uncertainties of this whole chain of events. Great snapshot of a crisis that many people today are not aware ever happened and a snappy read for kids.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shortly after being elected President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln traveled by train from Springfield to Washington D.C. One of the cities he would pass through was Baltimore, the only southern city on his route. The Pinkertons discovered a plot to kill Lincoln there. There's wasn't much time to foil the plans of the assassins, so they needed to use their best man - who was a woman. Kate Warne - she was classy, smart and a great detective. Kate could protect the President.

I loved the story - the telling was exciting and quickly paced. Comport's illustration look right out of the time period, as though originally printed on newsprint. And, there is so much back material! There's an afterword, some biographical info about Kate Warne, information on Lincoln and Slavery, the Railroads, and (my favorite) a description of the kind of clothes Kate would have worn to disguise herself. Also includes a bibliography of primary and secondary sources.

[Judy Sobanski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Anderson is a master at creating books that present history in a way that keeps kids (of all ages) enthralled. In Hiding in Plain Sight, Beth tells the story of Kate Warne, a female detective at the Pinkerton Agency. Kate's assignment is to make sure newly-elected President Lincoln arrives safely on his inaugural train to Washington D.C. Even though most readers know the outcome, the intrigue of Kate's undercover plan to thwart a planned assassination attempt at a stop in Baltimore keeps readers turning the pages! Kate Warne is a strong female character who proudly, albeit anonymously, achieves her goal and sets her place in history as well. The illustrations by Sally Wern Comport offer subdued hues and give a distinct vintage vibe to the story. Excellent back matter is also included.

[Eileen Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packed with suspense and intrigue, Beth Anderson’s telling of Kate Warne’s daring detective work to protect the 16th president is a must-read! This true story about Warne’s undercover work for the Pinkerton Detective Agency and how she setup and shepherded Abraham Lincoln safe arrival from Philadelphia – through Baltimore (the location of a dangerous plot to harm the president-elect) and into the nation’s capital. Stunning art created by Sally Wern Comport transports you back in time to the mid-1800s. Each page turn is a delight packed with tension, thrilling detective work, and terrific illustrations. This lesser known story about Lincoln is a must-read for history buffs, Lincoln fans, and those interested in learning more about this daring young female detective!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Beth Anderson has a magic touch for making history come alive. This most recent nonfiction picture book even has elements of a thriller, making old facts exciting and the book a page-turner. You can tell every detail is meticulously researched and therefore trustworthy. In this era of fake news, it’s reassuring to know you can trust Anderson to bring you the truth…in the most accessible and enjoyable way possible. Paired with wonderful period illustrations by Sally Wern Comport, this book is a must-read for kids of any age.

[Marcie Flinchum · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brings us right to the forefront of detective Kate Warne’s efforts to protect Abraham Lincoln from an assassination attempt on his way to Washington, DC in 1861. Beth Anderson’s writing keeps the reader on the edge of their seat and gives a sneak peek into the life of a female detective–back before that was a job for women. The art packs an exceptional amount of detail in and will give young readers a glimpse into the time period. With extensive back matter, notes, maps, and photographs, this book gives teachers and librarians a lot to dive into and share with young readers.

[Keila Dawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A riveting read! Beth Anderson tells the story of the 1861 Baltimore Plot and how female detective, Kate Warne, helped protect the president-elect, Lincoln, from assassination. Each scene explores how cleverly and seriously Kate approached her work and her goal to thwart the southerners who opposed Lincoln and devised the plot. Period illustrations by Sally Wern bring readers back to the mid 1800s. Includes extensive backmatter about the period and the plot and acknowledges that Kate Warne remains one of history’s mysteries.

[Lynn Street · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing History + America’s First Female Detective

Kate Warne works for a detective agency and will need to use her wits to help save Abraham Lincoln from threats in Baltimore on his inaugural trip to Washington, DC. This is a fascinating and little-known true story of presidential history. Readers will enjoy perusing the detailed illustrations and maps as Lincoln makes his journey. Back matter fills in more details about Kate, detective work, and Lincoln’s story.

[Melissa Koch · Rating 5 out of 5]

The drama of history comes alive through author Beth Anderson's tension-filled writing and illustrator Sally Comport's antiqued layering of colors and textures. Both the art and writing move the story forward, much like the trains the historical characters travel throughout the book. Using mystery novel techniques, the author artfully reveals a hidden hero in our U.S. history: Kate Warne. Don't miss this historical mystery.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Packed with intrigue, suspense, adventure, historical information, stunning illustrations, and a harrowing story, this book will appeal to adults and children alike. I had no idea the Pinkerton Detective Agency had a woman detective on staff at this time and her work is fascinating. While this covers one case in Kate Warne's career, I'm motivated to learn more about her and the work she did in her lifetime. Fascinating historical account I'd never heard of!

[Andrea Wang · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fast-paced and fascinating account of Kate Warne, the first female detective in the U.S., and her mission to save president-elect Abraham Lincoln from an assassination plot. The artwork is stunning and the text highlights Kate's abilities as she dons disguises, eavesdrops, and devises a plan to save Lincoln. A gripping and timely story with lots of back matter and opportunities to spark discussions.

[Danna · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a homeschooling mama, I always look for engaging nonfiction that also subtly teaches my kids and gives me opportunities to expand into a larger lesson. This book does all this and more--my kids were so excited by this thrilling mystery, the spies, a woman operative, and the very cool history they did not know! Absolutely fantastic and achieved exactly what I always hope for in a book: get my kids excited and wanting to know more!

[June · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate Warne, a female undercover Pinkerton agent, rushes to New York City to warn Lincoln of the assassination plot in Baltimore. She is then instrumental in obtaining berths in a train for her "sick brother" and seeing him safely to Baltimore in the middle of the night.

Afterword provides what little information is available about the first female detective in the US, who went on to spy for Lincoln during the Civil War.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional! Readers of all ages will be enthralled by the intrigue of this fast-paced true story of the Pinkerton detective – the first female private detective in the U.S. – who helped foil a plot to kill President-elect Abraham Lincoln before his inauguration. Readers will pore over the gorgeous, intricate collaged illustrations and illuminating back matter. Brilliantly done.

[Janice Hechter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a fascinating peek into a historical moment in our country's history that most have never heard about. A female detective whisks the reader away on a thrilling journey to save Abraham Lincoln before it's too late. It reads like a thriller. Children will revel in the intrigue of this story, while coming away with a piece of our nation's history.

[Donna Marx · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written historical account focusing on a lesser-known story about Kate Warne and the role she played in saving Abraham Lincoln’s life. There was just enough content to keep the reader interested and engaged. The back matter is extensive and perfect for kids who are history buffs. The art is masterful and helps take the reader back in time.

[Danielle Hammelef · Rating 5 out of 5]

This feels like reading a spy novel, full of suspense, high stakes, and secrecy. I enjoyed learning about Kate Warne and her role in protecting Lincoln from an attack on his way to D.C. I never knew about this plot against the president elect and now wish more records about this intelligent and clever woman who helped save Lincoln.

[Ellon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars (I really liked it)

This was super interesting! I never knew about the "Baltimore plot" or the first female detective in the US. I didn't love the illustration style but I did appreciate that it was mimicking the style of the times. There is a lot of great back matter that explains even more about Warne and her role.

[Kirsten Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate Warne, first female detective for the Pinkerton Agency, helps foul an assassination plot and save Abraham Lincoln’s life after he wins the US presidency and makes his way to DC. She is absolutely a fascinating historical person!

Includes quite a bit of back matter and primary resources, plus Illustrator Note.

Book Connection:
* The Detective’s Assistant by Kate Hannigan

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This biography is a piece of history I had never heard about before! The story is intriguing and fast-paced, and I wanted to read more at the end. The lovely illustrations match the period and text beautifully. So much to love!

[Debra Shumaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating story from history! I never knew about the woman who helped save Lincoln as he traveled to Washington D.C. The writing is full of tension and the art is stunning. Kids who love history will love this book. Amazing.