OUR ABE LINCOLN

Adapted from an old song and presented as a children’s pantomime, this picture-book survey of the life of the 16th president is well suited for classroom use with early elementary students. The rhyming text begins with Lincoln’s birth and illuminates all the high points, verse by verse. Rather than ending with his death, however, Aylesworth brings the story full circle to once again celebrate Lincoln’s humble beginnings. This helps to emphasize the distance that history lends and softens the sad story. McClintock’s detailed illustrations, in her distinctive, old-fashioned style, capture the charm of young children playing dress-up and likewise serve to give a sense of distance from the disturbing realities of slavery, war and murder. While it seems unlikely that young students will be studying Lincoln’s life and/or the Civil War in any depth, this overview offers an appealing way to introduce the subject. Energetic teachers might even choose to stage the pantomime, as Aylesworth includes the music. A charming tribute. (Picture book/poetry. 6-8)