Voyages: Reminiscences of Young Abe Lincoln

A parent gave me Voyages: Reminiscences of Young Abe Lincoln by Neil Walman as a gift at the end of a school year, knowing that I love books and am also interested in history. In an introductory page Walman explains that the book was inspired by primary documents providing glimpses into Lincoln's trips down the Mississippi River, which prompted him to think about slavery. Thus, the title refers to both the physical voyage and an internal voyage. The remaining book is divided into four sections (First Voyage, Second Voyage, Third Voyage, and The Auction Block).

Walman told the story in a unique way in first person through Lincoln's eyes. He noted that he would put direct quotes from Lincoln in brown text to distinguish between his own words and the president's, seamlessly incorporate Lincoln's own words without interrupting the flow. At the end of the book there is a sources page, which explains in more detail the documents where Walman excerpted Lincoln's statements. It seems that using this format, there would be some blurring between fact and fiction, much like memoir writing where it is necessary to fill in gaps at times in a best effort to preserve the events. Only, in this case, it was not Waldman's own experiences, so his intent would be basing his words on what he knew about the historical time period and from other documents. It would be helpful to discuss with the difference between the black and brown text and implications for interpretations. Even though the format is directly stated at the start of the book, it would still be pertinent to discuss.

The words, including those from Walman as Lincoln, have a historical flavor. Otherwise, there would have been a disconnect between the two types of text. This may present challenges for some readers who are not as familiar with phrases from the time period; yet, much of it can be grasped through context. In addition, the pages have a faint background coloring simulating worn, older documents also adding to the overall aesthetics of the book.

At 32 pages, this is a quick book, but it will provide readers with glimpses into events that shaped Abraham Lincoln's perspective as he was transitioning into adulthood.