This is a good one. I read this book years ago, and it’s history written like a novel. Meaning… it’s entertaining, and not just dry data.
To be honest, I didn’t even really know that John Wilkes Booth escaped and was on the run for so long. I’m not sure I should admit it, but that was all new information to me. I also didn’t know that Lincoln wasn’t the only person targeted for murder that night.
There are several scenes that remain vivid in my mind, even years later. It’s very well-written, and highly recommended.
Today it’s on sale in the Kindle Store, for $1.99. It’s a great book, worth every cent — even on days when it’s full-priced. I bought the hard cover when it was a new release, and considered it money well-spent.
If I had to pick my all time favorite book, this might be it. You get a great story about something that actually happened, and learn lots of history in the process. Minor details, such as pieces of Lincoln’s brain lying in the street as they tried to transport him from Ford’s Theater, makes you feel like you’re there as its happening. Also a good look inside Booth’s head, especially as he’s shocked to read the papers and see that he’s vilified for the assassination instead of celebrated.