Leonard Marcus, in his nonfiction account for middle graders, Mr. Lincoln Sits for His Portrait, looks at a different side of Abraham Lincoln. In this book, an account is given of how Lincoln used photography in his runs for office and in creating the image he wanted after he was elected. He was conscious of the power of a picture to influence voters and constituents. Anecdotes about his outreach include the famous one of the little girl who suggested that he would look better with a beard with the added before and after photographs so the reader can make a decision. The writer also documents the family illnesses and deaths with photographs and paintings that have been altered to include those who are missing.

Ultimately, the author’s focus will lead to the iconic picture Lincoln had taken showing him reading to his ten-year-old son Tad. One image taken that day would be reproduced on the penny and on old and new five-dollar bills. The last-minute picture with Tad became a cherished photograph of Lincoln after his murder and remains popular today. The idea of Lincoln reading the Bible to his young son appealed to the people of the United States.

As he always does, Leonard Marcus researched his subject and documented his sources well. He uses timelines throughout to keep the reader abreast of the historical period when each photograph was taken. The book will fascinate any middle grader who has an interest in biography and history and any adult who would like to follow the photographs and the story of Lincoln’s use of them to enhance his political path.

A wonderfully interesting look at how President Lincoln was aware of the positive aspects of using photography to further his political career, sitting for many photographic portraits and even having a painter in the White House depict the first sharing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Most of all, this book provides an absorbing look into Lincoln's time in the White House and his relationship with photographer Matthew Brady's studio. While the subtitle suggests that the book is mostly about the photograph of Lincoln reading to his son Tad, the book deals with much, much more. With lucid, vivid prose and lots of extra details, it is clearly a page turner for young history buffs. Pair it with Russell Freedman's Lincoln: A Photobiography for another view of the impact of photographs on Lincoln's life. A great find for social studies teachers and young historians.

Leonard S. Marcus give us a book on Abraham Lincoln that feels fresh and new. In this book we learn more about Mathew Brady also photographer Antony Berger, two men that were at the forefront of photography. Photography, still in its infancy becomes a useful tool for Politics. The first photos of Lincoln helped show him in a different light, and through prints available to the public, allowed the public to feel closer to their president. An excellent book for children, who will learn about Lincoln and his family, but also the history and power of photography.

Interesting look into one aspect of the president's life. I have seen a few portraits of Lincoln, showing how he aged over his presidency due to stress. This book contained some portraits I had never seen. Interesting read!

Mr. Lincoln Sits for His Portrait: The Story of a Photograph That Became an American Icon is written
by Leonard S. Marcus. This is a middle grade book that is geared toward readers that are 10-12 years old. I read this with my 11 year old son - and he really enjoyed it. He has become more fascinated with the Civil War (makes my military historian heart proud) and really enjoyed reading about this portrait. So much so that he wants me to order one for his room.

The book is written well toward the expected audience. My son had no issues understanding any of the language. The author writes how Lincoln knows he is not the most attractive man. My son thought this was hysterical. Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.