The Story of Abraham Lincoln: A Biography Book for New Readers

The Story Of: A Biography Series for New Readers

by Carla Jablonski

Discover the life of Abraham Lincoln―a story about honesty, leadership, and staying true to your values.

Delve into the life of the 16th president of the United States―Abraham Lincoln―a man many say is the most important president in US history. Even before he ended slavery and reunited America, Abraham was a hard-working kid who believed in equality and freedom for everyone.

He soon discovered that by learning as much as he could, he would be able to help people and change the world for the better. Of all the Abraham Lincoln books for kids, this one best explores how he went from being a poor farm boy with a dream to one of the most powerful leaders in US history.

All Abraham Lincoln books for kids should include:

Helpful definitions―Increase your knowledge with a glossary of easy-to-understand definitions for the more advanced words and ideas discussed.

Lasting change―Learn about how Abraham made the world a better place for future generations.

Visual timeline―Unlike many other Abraham Lincoln books for kids, this one includes a timeline so you can see how he grew into a great leader.

If you’ve been curious about Abraham Lincoln books for kids, look no further―this one has you covered.

Genres: History, Biography, Nonfiction, Childrens, Middle Grade

76 pages, Paperback

Published March 3, 2020

About the author

Carla Jablonski is the author and editor of dozens of best-selling books for teenage and middle-grade readers. She grew up in New York City, where she attended public schools and the Bronx High School of Science. She has a BA in anthropology from Vassar College and an MA from NYU's Gallatin School, an interdisciplinary program for which she combined playwriting, the history of gender issues in 19th Century Circus, and arts administration. "I wanted to write the play, contextualize the play, and learn how to produce the play for my degree," she explains. "I think I may have been the happiest graduate student at NYU -- I SO loved working toward my thesis."

While still in graduate school she supported herself as the editor of The Hardy Boys Mysteries. "When I interviewed for the job they asked me if I'd ever read the Hardy Boys as a kid. 'No way,' I scoffed. 'Those are BOY books! It was Nancy Drew for me!' Luckily my future boss had a sense of humor. She hired me after I promised I'd read the books if I got the job."

She has participated in the renowned Breadloaf Writers' Conference as well as Zoetrope's All-Story highly competitive writing workshop held at Francis Ford Coppella's resort in Belize. She has taught writing for the children's market, as well as "cold-reading" skills for teachers as part of Project:Read. Several of her books have been selected as part of the Accelerated Reader's program.

She continues to work freelance as an editor for publishers and for private clients, even as she writes novels and creates new series. She also has another career (and identity!) as a playwright, an actress, and a trapeze performer. "I try to keep the worlds separate," she explains about her multiple identities. "The different work I do has different audiences, so I want to keep them apart. But they're all me -- they're all ways of expressing what I'm thinking and feeling -- just in different mediums."

Reviews

[Miranda Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a fight for what kind of country America should be.

Abraham Lincoln is one of the most famous US Presidents - but he was not always the strong, confident leader.

In fact, he had the humblest of origins - no running water, electricity and a dirt floor. His mother died young and he often worked long hours on the farm - even when he was a child.

But what really changed his life was education.

Reading opened whole worlds for Abraham.

Reading opened doors for young Abraham and his honesty (and desire to do good) really carried him.

As he grew older, and wiser, Abraham decided that he wanted to change America for the better - and even hundreds of years later - we have not forgotten.

At his inauguration, Abraham warned that he wouldn't allow the country to be split in two.

Hats off to this book!

I absolutely LOVED it from cover to cover.

It was so much fun to learn about Abraham's childhood and how he went from a farm boy to a lawyer to a senator to a president.

I liked the little timeline that went throughout the book and I really felt like I was learning a lot.

The illustrations were simply amazing and truly made the book memorable. The style and presence of so many pictures made the book so much fun to read.

All in all - this one was fabulous! Absolutely wonderful for the curious kid in your life!!

A huge thank you to the author and Rockridge Press for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review

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[Kailey (Luminous Libro) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children's book tells the history of Abraham Lincoln, from his childhood to his death.
I like that the story is told with a simple writing style, easy for a child to understand, and there is a glossary at the back from some of the bigger or unfamiliar words. This would be a great book for 7-10 year old readers.

There are fun cartoon illustrations showing Abe as a young boy on the farm, as a young politician, as a family man, and finally as President of the United States. I really like the bright colors and design of the book!

There are also a lot of maps showing different areas of the country, where Lincoln lived, where battles took place, and where the states were divided into Union and Confederates during the American Civil War. There are timelines showing important milestones in Lincoln's life as well as important political steps in the American nation at the time.

One of the coolest things about this book are the "Jump In the Think Tank" questions that urge the reader to imagine themselves in a log cabin with a dirt floor, or think how you could teach yourself at home like Abe did instead of going to school, or think about ideas you have about what the government should do?

There is even a quiz at the back of the book to see how much you remember from your reading!

I love how this book gives the straight historical facts, encourages the reader to think critically and to use their imagination, and makes history come alive!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.

[Benjamin Luu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE IT IT WAS SO AMAZING

[J · Rating 2 out of 5]

After a mixed reaction to reading several of these books from the same series I am not quite sure whether I should worry about this book or not. So let's see how this book will unwrap....

In The Story of Abraham Lincoln, the reader is introduced to the historical person of President Lincoln through his traits and the world that he grew up in. As is with the series, the book explores the world of Abraham Lincoln further in eight chapters that breakdown his life through his early years, how he made his mark, his arrival into politics and the way that he led the country when it came down to war as well as his attempts to help in freeing the slaves as well as his legacy as a result after his assassination.

The rest of the book has thoughtful questions scattered throughout the telling as well as myth versus fact inserts to provide the reader with more information. Furthermore the book has a glossary in the back to describe all the words that were in bold format throughout the book as well as a timeline with important dates at the end of each chapter. And to further help the reader to understand what they learned about in the reading there is included in the back a quiz as well as a legacy-type page that explains how his contributions have helped the United States as we are living in it now.

Unfortunately for most of the book itself, though, the writing was a bit stilted and didn't flow really good but instead seem like it was being told as a reader's book with very basic sentences like "see spot run". Another aspect is the author chose to show her allegiance by insisting that other humble yet modern presidents are all Democrats *smh*.

Anyway the book does make for a good starter book for children about this 16th president although I would strongly suggest finding a book that didn't compare and/or bring Democrats into his legacy.

**I received a free copy of this book through the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**

[Virginia Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Story of Abraham Lincoln: A Biography Book for New Readers" is quite a story indeed--one that should be read by all Americans and by everyone who loves freedom. Author Carla Jablonski and illustrator Patrick Corrigan have combined their talents to create an interesting, informative, and appealing little volume which will illuminate and enlighten readers both young and old. Our 16th president came from humble origins, was mostly self-educated, was no stranger to hard work and hard times, and stayed true to his own personal beliefs throughout his lifetime. This book is not only the story of Abraham Lincoln, it is the story of a country torn apart by deeply opposing views on slavery and contentious political stratagems. Throughout the pages, you will find an enjoyable biography of an admirable man and a timeline of notable events from his birth to his death. Also included are prompts for readers to put themselves in certain situations faced by Mr. Lincoln to see how they would have reacted, "myths and facts", a quiz at the end of the book to see what you remember, and a glossary to help understand words like "amendment", "emancipation", "inauguration", and "proclamation". Abraham Lincoln's importance as a legislator and president is immeasurable, but we should not forget that he was also once a boy who loved to read who grew to be a man who would become known as "The Great Emancipator".

Book Copy Gratis Callisto Publishers

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This title is part of a series of  chapter books for beginning readers.  It is nicely illustrated and includes extras such as quotes from Lincoln, questions in sections called "jump in the think tank," timelines, a glossary and a bibliography. 

The author engages young readers right away, reminding them that they may well have seen Lincoln on coins and dollar bills. She then begins the biography with the complicated issues and wrongs of slavery, writing factually and not minimizing or talking down to her readers. 

As an adult reader, I learned things about Lincoln that I had not known. For example, I had not known much about the death of Lincoln's mother which left young Abraham with a lingering sadness.   I also read about the positive impact that Abe's father's second wife had on him. 

The reader follows as Abe leaves home and finds his way in the world and marries, culminating in his becoming the president. There is a clear explanation of the circumstances surrounding the Civil War and its impact on Lincoln.  His assassination is also described as is the sadness of so many when he died.

Throughout this book, Lincoln's essential goodness stands out.  I was very impressed with the way in which the author wrote and put together this title.  It is an excellent, readable resource for elementary school children.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

#TheStoryofAbrahamLincoln #NetGalley

[Oak · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Story of Abraham Lincoln: A Biography Book for New Readers by Carla Jablonski is a good book for children who want to learn more about America's sixteenth President. The book chronicles the life of Abraham Lincoln, from his birth in Kentucky to his tragic death in Washington, D.C. One of my favorite parts of the book was the section that discussed the Emancipation Proclamation. Jablonski includes a nice glossary of terms (such as "inauguration" and "oath of office") to help children better understand the content. I also liked seeing the cute illustrations interspersed throughout the book. 

I have always really enjoyed reading about Lincoln's life, and have visited his boyhood home in southern Indiana, his adult residence in Springfield, Illinois, and the State House he worked at in Vandalia, Illinois. The book shows the important role that President Lincoln played in America's history. I like the 13 quiz questions (with answers) included at the end of the book, which create a fun way to test your knowledge of Lincoln after reading the book. Reading The Story of Abraham Lincoln is educational for kids, and also a good way for adults to brush up on some American history. 

I received this book for review.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up.

This engaging, well-paced biography for young readers shares information about Abraham Lincoln's childhood, young adult years, political career, and role in ending slavery during the Civil War. The book includes quotes from Lincoln, which I thought was an excellent touch, and it emphasizes his hatred of slavery and desire to see it abolished. The book is occasionally oversimplified and can't engage with all of Lincoln's complexities, the full context of the war, or additional factors about the Emancipation Proclamation, but this is a good introduction, and this is more accurate and much less oversimplified than many similar children's books I've read.

Parents of sensitive children should know that when the book covers Lincoln's assassination, there is a full-page illustration of John Wilkes Booth poised behind Lincoln with a pistol pointed at his head. That seems like a bit much for the early elementary crowd, but the book is age-appropriate as a whole. It also has lots of appealing features throughout, such as a timeline, open-ended discussion questions, myth vs. fact sidebars, a quiz, and a glossary at the end.

I received a free copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book for kids to introduce them to Abraham Lincoln and the pivotal role he had in shaping the future of the United States by ending Slavery and holding our nation together!

Like other books in this series, The Story of Abraham Lincoln includes a glossary to explain new terms, helpful timelines throughout the story to follow events easily, and charming illustrations to stick with the reader. There is also a reading comprehension quiz at the end of the book.

One thing that really impressed me about this installment in the youth biography series is the thought that went into the "Think Tank" questions. Throughout the book, at least once per chapter a think tank question encourages critical, creative, and empathetic thinking from the reader. This is an amazing tool to help children to engage with the text beyond the words on the page! The questions are thoughtful and extra think tank questions are provided at the end of the book to help children think beyond the text to draw their own conclusions about the impact of Lincoln's life and presidential legacy.

Thank you to Rockridge Press for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Octopodey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A decent introduction to President Lincoln for early readers. It captures more nuance than some high school textbooks, which is a plus. Both Lincoln and the Civil War are such complex and multifaceted topics that it's hard to address them in simple ways without leaving out complexities that speak to the truth. Generally this book does a pretty good job but occasionally falls flat. For instance, one line states that Southerners didn't want to give up slavery because it would make farming harder. And on the one hand I'm glad that slavery is centered as the cause of the war *and* that it's made clear that Lincoln went to war to protect the Union, not to end slavery, but on the other hand I'm like dudes what about the very fact of racism and that being equal to a Black person would crumble the entire social basis of Southern society? But in general, a good job covering the topics at hand while not filling an entire textbook and keeping it at an age-appropriate reading level.

I received an electronic ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Andrex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learn the origins of slavery in America as you start reading the story of Abraham Lincoln's life. What did his parents think on the subject? As Abraham grew, he was horrified to see the treatment of enslaved people. What did he do? When did he become president? How did the Civil War start etc?

This book, written for kids, is EXCELLENT! Throughout the book you will find:
> Questions to the reader to challenge what they think
> Good timelines making it easy for children to learn important dates
> Maps clearly showing what each state stood for
> Colorful illustrations
> Myth and fact boxes
> Multiple choice questions at the end
> Glossary for the bold words found in the text

I was very pleased with this well-written and illustrated biography on Abraham Lincoln. It is a wonderful educational and historical resource. A definite keeper in this house. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. Thanks, Liz

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With malice toward none: with charity towards all..let us strive on to finish the work we are in: to bind up the nation's wounds.

I have always liked history and to pass that love to our children this is a great tool in introducing history to them. A love for what this country went thru and why and how far it has come. Abraham Lincoln is mostly known for his nick name Honest Abe but there were a few more to add that speak of his character and passion. Even though he despised slavery and wanted to end slavery, his main concern for the country was to keep it united. He believed everyone was valuable and should have the same freedoms. With colorful illustrations and bi partisans facts, the biography will encourage your child to think about what they can do to make this a better place just like Abraham Lincoln. Highly recommend.

A Special Thank you to Rockridge Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Tom Law · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an entertaining account of the life of our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. It is written in a style which is attractive to young readers. Although the historical facts are preserved the words chosen by the author are such that any beginning reader should be able to understand most of them. Words that are difficult or new have been bolded and included in a Glossary to help the young reader expand their vocabulary.

As a lover of history, it is exciting to see books that are designed for young readers on subjects that should be of interest to everyone. Lincoln was one of those transformative characters in American history. So much of our current reality continues to draw on the issues which challenged Lincoln that it behooves all of us to learn from these past dilemmas. Young or old if we don’t learn from our past, we are doomed to repeat it.

Upon request the publisher sent me a copy of the book to review.

[Renee Knoblauch · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter has always been intrigued with our sixteenth president. This book was packed full of information from his humble birth to his death that rocked a nation.

The book is appropriate for 7-10 year olds. The book is easy to read and understand. The illustrations are engaging. The book has myth and facts section throughout the book.

The book has a great mix of vocabulary throughout words like emancipation, proclamations, inauguration, perish, and more intriguing vocabulary. A glossary is provided in the back of the book.

A timeline weaves its way through the book.

A quiz at the back of the book which my daughter proudly proclaimed that she knows Abraham Lincoln pretty darn good!

I love how the book talks about his love of learning and that he loved to read. This is a great beginning biography book for young learners.

I received a copy of this product from Callisto Publisher's in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Alyssa Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a perfect addition for young readers, especially if they love biographies. My 8 year old found this book to be a little too easy for her, but she is also an advanced reader. Even though it is too easy for her she still enjoyed reading it as she loves biographies. She found it very interesting and every little bit she had to stop to tell me something she learned like “ Mom did you know that Abraham Lincoln was born in Kentucky and lived in a log cabin with only one room?” or “Hey mom did you know that his mother died from drinking bad milk?”

I received a free copy of this product from Callisto Publishers in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way.

[April Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in this biography series for beginning readers. In this story of Abraham Lincoln's life, the reader is drawn in with many personal stories of Lincoln's life before politics, and this helps make him more relatable to young readers. The heavier aspects of his life, such as the Civil War and the realities of slavery, are handled in a very straightforward way that is age-appropriate while not talking down to the reader. The illustrations highlight the text well, and the additional features are very engaging- discussion questions, timelines, maps, a quiz and glossary at the end all combine to make learning about our 16th president fun.

#TheStoryofAbrahamLincoln #NetGalley

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books I read as an adult and think, "I would've loved this book as a child." It's not only educational, but also interesting and fun. The break-up into chapters, the arrow informational points, and the hand-drawn illustrations add so much.

This is a fun, entertaining biography of honest Abe, designed for young readers. It even has a question and answer section to test what readers learn.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

[Mary Bronson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for an ARC copy so I may read this book and give my honest opinions.

I thought this a great biography of Abraham Lincoln. I thought this was easy and simple for kids to be able to read and learn more about the 16th president of The United States. I like the trivia, quotes, and quizzes they had through out the book. This series would be great in public and school libraries. Plus the art is amazing through out the book.

[Amy Navarre · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you Callisto Publisher's Club and Rockridge Press for this free book. The following review contains my honest opinions.
This book is a good introduction to Abraham Lincoln. I would recommend this read for 6 to 8 year olds. The chapters are very short and concise. There is a timeline that runs through the book and a quiz toward the end. My favorite feature was the "Jump in the Think Tank" segments that asked questions to enhance creative thinking.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a review copy from Callisto Media; thank you!
Patrick Corrigan’s vibrant illustrations are great, and I loved the few photographs available. Carla Jablonski makes Lincoln’s life story accessible for kids and in context of slavery and equal rights in our nation. I would recommend the book for grades 2-4, though an advanced younger reader might enjoy it too. Great detailed glossary at the end, plus a quiz and bibliography. Straightforward, reasonably-priced bio.

[CAITLIN HEIKEN · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about our 16th president. The first chapter just gives you an overall overview of Abraham Lincoln. As you continue reading you see Abrahams's early life, how he got his nickname, his wife Mary, why his hat is so big, and many cool and interesting things about him. This book also has a quiz at the end to check your understanding, and this is a chapter book but its only 76 pages, so its a quick read.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent this book by the publisher with the expectation that I would give an honest review. I love history and really looked forward to reading this book for children. I loved it! It was written where kids will stay engaged with the story and learn a great deal about Honest Abe while being entertained as well. A definite must-have for every parent and teacher.

[Kristy Thiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love these new biographical books! They are presented in such a way that allows the child to really get a picture of the topic, from birth and throughout their lives. In addition, it's presented in a FUN way! My daughter can't wait to read more books like this. There are graphics, quizzes, and lots of information for her to learn more about Abraham Lincoln in a fun way!

[Blythe · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Major disappointment. Poorly written (we kept having to stop reading and explain certain words or abrupt transitions), way too much about Lincoln’s early years, and a way too brief, milquetoast description of the Civil War. Inconsistent with the rest of the books in this series we’ve read so far.

[Margaret Pisini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thought provoking biography!

This book is perfect for a young reader interested in history. The thought provoking questions are great and placed perfectly for comprehension. I loved the timelines too, and referred to them often. I thought the personal questions a great tie in to relating history and personal experiences. A must read!

[ME · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book is perfect to encourage our daughter to start reading chapter books and strong content, hoping building her interest in history.

[PRIYANKA MODI · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Book for kids

Book is written wonderfully, with all the specific details to know about President Lincoln. His struggles, personal life and the changes he made. Very inspiring!!

[Patrick J. Baier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simplicity

Outstanding graphics thathe reader follow the contents. The test at the end is great.
The one omission was that the authors left out Lincoln's tenure in the Black Hawk War.

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy

Teaching kids and adults value of humanity is so important in a new world were most forget. The book takes a historical figure and turns him into a life lesson.

[Ahmet Uzar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although it looks like a children's book. It taught me a lot. We are waiting more books like this.