On April 14; 1865; the night of President Lincoln’s assassination; Booth’s conspirator Lewis Powell attempted to assassinate Secretary of State William Seward in his home just blocks from Ford’s Theatre. The attack; which left Seward and his son seriously wounded; is recounted in poignant detail in Fanny Seward’s diary. Fanny; the beloved only daughter of Seward; was a keen observer; and her diary entries from 1858 to 1866 are the foundation of Krisher’s vivid portrait of the young girl who was an eyewitness to one of the most tumultuous periods in American history.Fanny offers intimate observations on the politicians; generals; and artists of the time. She tells of attending dinner parties; visiting troops; and going to the theater; often alongside President Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary. Through Fanny’s writings; Krisher not only skillfully brings to life the events and activities of a progressive political family but also illuminates the day-to-day drama of the war. Giving readers a previously unseen glimpse into the era; Fanny Seward: A Life broadens our understanding of Civil War America. On April 14; 1865; the night of President Lincoln’s assassination; Booth’s conspirator Lewis Powell attempted to assassinate Secretary of State William Seward in his home just blocks from Ford’s Theatre. The attack; which left Seward and his son seriously wounded; is recounted in poignant detail in Fanny Seward’s diary. Fanny; the beloved only daughter of Seward; was a keen observer; and her diary entries from 1858 to 1866 are the foundation of Krisher’s vivid portrait of the young girl who was an eyewitness to one of the most tumultuous periods in American history.Fanny offers intimate observations on the politicians; generals; and artists of the time. She tells of attending dinner parties; visiting troops; and going to the theater; often alongside President Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary. Through Fanny’s writings; Krisher not only skillfully brings to life the events and activities of a progressive political family but also illuminates the day-to-day drama of the war. Giving readers a previously unseen glimpse into the era; Fanny Seward: A Life broadens our understanding of Civil War America.
#1433549 in Books NYU Press 2006-11-06 2006-11-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.08 x 6.00l; 1.26 #File Name: 0814796869419 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A good book but a bit long windedBy Retired Marine Corps GunnyThis is a very good book for those looking to learn more about American history; the men and women; of the American Revolution; and the reasons behind the war that ultimately created this country. That being said; the author spends a great deal of time on back stories; and on long winded diatribe which takes away from the facts that the reader is looking for. This is not a book for the casual reader who expects to read it in a couple of evenings. However; if you are looking for some of the unknown information about how this country came into existence; this is one of he books you need on your shelf.Semper FiJohn M. SnyderUSMC Retired0 of 1 people found the following review helpful. History that includes youBy W. ParrowAfter you have had enough of reading how Washington and Adams and Jefferson saved usall and brought us life; liberty and and the pursuit of happiness; get the real story.Ordinary people were there first and forced their leaders to follow.Young tells that story here in a number of essays.1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great readBy DBLThis was very entertaining. A must read for all ages! I will read this again to my kids. If you want an educational but entertaining book; this is for you.
