What Lincoln Said is an introductory biography of Abraham Lincoln for young readers, which chronologically cobbles together Lincoln quotes to track the story of his life from tween to emancipator. The illustrations are excellent (except for the opening page, which inexplicably makes Lincoln look like the village idiot). The book includes a timeline, and a note on Abraham Lincoln and slavery.

A serious issue with this book is that it lacks a clear audience. Its total and complete lack of a plot suggests a very young audience, but its volume of content suggests an older audience. Also, the book ends somewhat abruptly, before the Civil War has even ended - the ultimate cliff hanger. Finally, the book portrays Lincoln as an enthusiastic and committed abolitionist, but as the "Abraham Lincoln and Slavery" afterward notes, this was not the case. This book does not leave readers with a clear understanding of what Lincoln stood for, what he worked for, or what he accomplished. ( )

This book written by Sarah L. Thomson sums up president Abraham Lincolns life. It starts from Lincolns childhood, where he worked to make money, to his early adult life, and on to when he became a president and what he was able to accomplish. This story gives us a better perspective on what President Lincolns personality was like. I really enjoyed reading this story because it was entertaining and also taught me more about this history changing president then what I already knew. I believe that children will really enjoy reading this story and can learn a lot from the words and the illustrations given. This book was illustrated by the award winner James E. Ransome and he did not disappoint. This is the type of book I would love to keep in my library all year long. ( )

"What Lincoln Said" is a biography about talks about Abraham Lincoln from when he was young boy to when he became the president. The story shows Lincoln's honesty, generosity, and the change he has made in America. My favorite part about this story is that is contains actual quotes from Lincoln throughout the book. I also love the bright and colorful illustrations! At the end of the story, there is a timeline of Lincoln's life and a page that talks more about Lincoln and slavery. This is a great book to read to children to learn about the president who was determined to make a difference. ( )

I did not enjoy the book What Lincoln Said, despite its historical content. While the book is semi biographic, there really is no plot, conflict, resolution, or moral of story. I like that that it is rich with historical information, but the lack of organization and plot hinders it. Even Lincoln's character is not well developed. However. the illustrations are really nice and are one good aspect of this picture book. Another flaw of this book is it's abrupt ending. After following Lincoln's journey to white house, he signs the Emancipation Proclamation and then book ends. I feel it is lacking resolution and context. ( )

The book gives an short introduction of the life of president Abraham Lincoln. On the one hand, the book is interesting as it gives children an idea of the principles of former President Lincoln. On the other hand, it shows a very blurry picture of him. It just shows the positive sides. It casts the American South in a negative light, as they wanted to fight. But does not explain any background, why they really fought for their rights. His intention was to save the Union and not only the slaves, which he showed with the statement "If I could save the Union without freeing any slaves i would do it. And if I could save it by freeing all the slaves I would do it." ( )