COMMANDER IN CHIEF ABRAHAM LINCOLN AND THE CIVIL WAR

Marrin describes the role of Abraham Lincoln as leader of the federal government during the Civil War. Although Marrin does not exactly venerate Lincoln, indeed he gives us a nice biography of the man and many of his flaws, this work glosses over the president’s assumption of dictatorial powers as well as his condoning of terror against civilians (for example, Sherman’s March). Extended passages deal with the horrors of slavery, which is seen as the reason for secession. Although the work is well written, Marrin’s simplistic descriptions of secession and the South itself do a great disservice to those young people he wishes to inform. John McDonough gives a marvelous reading of this account. His voice is winsome and sonorous, with a pacing and inflection that are a joy to hear. Although this reviewer found much fault with the text, the reading is virtually flawless. M.T.F. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 01]