Abe Lincoln Loved Animals

Plot Summary

Like other pioneers in the early 1800s, young Abraham Lincoln worked hard to put food on the table. One day, while hunting food for the family, Abraham shot a wild turkey. The sight of the dying bird filled him with such sorrow that he swore he would never again hunt large animals.

This incident was just the start of Abraham Lincoln’s long history with animals. Throughout his childhood and even into his presidential years, Abraham was kind to animals and always made time for his pets. One year, he used his presidential power to “pardon” a turkey that was supposed to be the White House Christmas dinner. Even during the turmoil of the Civil War, he still found time to rescue three motherless kittens that he found at General Grant’s headquarters.

Many people know about Abraham Lincoln’s legacy as president. But few know about his love for animals and the compassion he showed them. And this compassion lives on today. Each Thanksgiving, the president of the United States “pardons” a turkey--just as Abraham Lincoln did more than one hundred years ago.

Based on accounts by Abraham Lincoln’s friends and family, Ellen Jackson provides a fascinating portrayal of the sixteenth president. Doris Ettlinger’s rich, detailed illustrations complement the text. This book will be perfect for celebrating the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth in February 2009. The author lives in California. The illustrator lives in New Jersey.

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Reviews

"A very different look at a figure who is as well covered as any, this book will endear Lincoln to young animal lovers, swelling the ranks of his many admirers." Booklist

"Using clearly defined sources to provide an accurate account, Jackson offers a warm portrait of Lincoln’s love of animals." School Library Journal

"The result is an accessible, documented introduction to a seminal figure in American history from a perspective that will appeal to young readers. Well done." Kirkus Reviews

"Ettlinger's illustrations reinforce the gentle tone of the story." Children's Literature

"the picture book format will likely appeal to young readers—especially those who share Lincoln’s sentiment about animals." The Horn Book Guide

"At a time when hunting often meant dinner, young Abe shoots a wild turkey, then kneels next to the dying bird in despair. All grown up, he was the first president to pardon one of the birds. Always a friend and defender of animals, Lincoln used a gold Buchanan fork to feed his yellow cat Tabby in the White House. His beloved horse Old Bob walked in his funeral procession and his dog Fido greeted mourners in Springfield, Ill., the president's final resting place." Associated Press

Associated Keywords
abraham lincoln, president, history, nonfiction, true, animals