Chasing Lincoln's Killer by James L. Swanson

Swanson, J. L. (2009). Chasing Lincoln's Killer. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780545204705

Plot Summary 

Adapted from his book Manhunt on the same subject, James Swanson recounts the events and political climate that led up to the assassination of Lincoln, including the planning and plotting of all the principle members.  The rest of the book details the 12-day hunt that led authorities from Washington, D.C. to Virginia to Maryland narrowly missing Booth at each turn.

Critical Evaluation 

This book is not only a briskly paced piece of non-fiction, but it is also an adept adaptation of a work previously made available for an adult audience.  The book is separated into chapters and reads more like a thriller at times than could be expected.  This will hook young adult readers with its simpler diction, but it is not uncomplicated by any means.  For reluctant readers of non-fiction, this is a good first foray.

Reader's Annotation 

Everyone knows John Wilkes Booth killed Abraham Lincoln, but this is the story of the plot and 12-day manhunt that proceeded.

Author Information 

There is little information to be found about Swanson, but the blurb on his book Manhunt gives the most information:

"James L. Swanson, an attorney and Lincoln scholar, has written about history, the Constitution, and other subjects for a variety of national publications, including the Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, and American Heritage.  The coauthor of Lincoln's Assassins: Their Trial and Execution, he is on the advisory committee of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission.  He lives in Washington, D.C."

He was also born on Lincoln's birthday, perhaps explaining his interest in the subject matter.

Genre 

Non-fiction, biography

Curriculum Ties 

History-Civil War

Booktalking Ideas 

Speak as Booth, laying out the plan for Lincoln's assassination to give readers incite into the machinations of the event everyone is so familiar with.

Reading Level/Interest Age 

Chasing Lincoln's Killer is rated 980L on the Lexile Range.  It is a bit more complicated than others in this library and will appeal to older teens, 15-18.

Challenge Issues 

None, but if challenged, I would first suggest being familiar with the work in order to speak about it directly. Then, listen the challenger's complaint, show them to positive reviews, and refer to the collection policy, stating a need to include a variety of works that may not be suitable for all, but should contain something for everyone. As a last resort, turn to the ALA Bill of Rights or First Amendment defense, but try not to let things get there; listen and reassure the patron.

Reason Selected
Patricia Cornwell, reknowned mystery/thriller author, called Manhunt, the book this one is adapted from, one of the two best true crime books ever written.  I was a big fan of Manhunt when it was released, and this young adult adaption makes gaining access to this engaging story even easier.