Abraham Lincoln’s Dueling Words is a delightfully illustrated tale about a lesser known incident in Lincoln’s life as a barrister. In response to tax changes that would affect the poorer folk rather harshly, Lincoln wrote a letter to the newspaper under the name ‘Aunt Rebecca’, which also called out rival James Shields. Two other ‘Aunt Rebecca’ letters turned up, written by people other than Lincoln.

These letters steamed Shields up, and he demanded to know who was behind it. He then challenged Lincoln to a duel. In an attempt to protect both people, and force it to be called off, Lincoln chose swords, and set very clear guidelines that would favour his height and reach. This gives the seconds the opportunity to step in and defuse things, satisfying the honour of both. At the end, there’s a section explaining more historical facts regarding the events surrounding Lincoln’s duel.

With brilliant illustrations and clear language, Bowman and Schindler bring to life this little known tale, making Lincoln into more a person than a symbol of ideal. He’s got a playful sense of humour, and bit of an impetuous nature. It was neat to see Lincoln in a trickster light! My cubs all enjoyed reading this book!

***Many thanks to Netgalley and Myrick Marketing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.