Status Updates From Mary Todd Lincoln: A Biography

Slowest book ever, but now I’ve invested this much time. Not the best writer.

For a book that was written in the 80s, I also appreciate her inclusion of the people that the Todd family enslaved. While some biographers might shy away from anything that would make the subject “look bad,” she incorporates their stories alongside Mary’s and takes into account how their presence affected Mary. Also love the discussion of Georgian era birthing and mourning conventions. Fascinating stuff.

I really appreciate Baker’s approach to Mary Todd’s story. As any good historian, she begins with Mary’s grandparents, and also takes her time to explain the historical context of the time. When unsure about specific details of Todd’s life or ancestors, she uses examples of similar historical situations to illustrate what may have occurred.