The Emancipation Proclamation: Would You Do What Lincoln Did? (What Would You Do?)

Grade 4–7—Landau employs an engaging format to involve readers in historical turning points. Students are asked to take on various roles, such as the governor of a Southern state, a Northern elected official, an abolitionist, and even President Lincoln himself, and then to consider what would happen if particular courses of action were followed. This personalized approach helps them understand varying perspectives and gain a fuller appreciation of why individuals made the choices they did. Because the book focuses on the Emancipation Proclamation, however, it does characterize the Civil War as being solely about slavery. Period photographs, including pictures of primary-source documents, and a colorful page layout add visual appeal. Used along with other sources to provide greater context, this title is an accessible and appealing introduction.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA
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