Bloody Times: The Funeral of Abraham Lincoln and the Manhunt for Jefferson Davis

by James L. Swanson

Overview

New York Times bestselling author James L. Swanson brings to life the fast-paced, suspense-filled story of Abraham Lincoln's and Jefferson Davis's final journeys through our wounded nation following the Civil War. This middle grade nonfiction book is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades 7 to 8, especially during homeschooling. It’s a fun way to keep your child entertained and engaged while not in the classroom.

This suspense-filled true-crime thriller—the young readers’ adaptation of Swanson’s Bloody Crimes—explores two epic events of the Civil War era: the manhunt to apprehend Confederate president Jefferson Davis in the wake of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination and the momentous 20-day funeral pageant that brought President Lincoln’s body from Washington, DC to his home in Springfield.

Full of fascinating twists and turns, and lavishly illustrated with dozens of rare historical images, Bloody Times captures the riveting stories of these two fallen leaders who changed the course of history. It’s perfect for young readers who enjoy dramatic nonfiction tales from the likes of Steve Sheinkin and Patricia McCormick.

This book contains a note from the author, a glossary, a list of important Civil War figures, and a guide to visiting the historic sites mentioned within. A companion to the bestselling and highly acclaimed Chasing Lincoln's Killer.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780061560927
Publisher:	HarperCollins
Publication date:	12/31/2018
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	208
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.52(d)
Age Range:	8 - 12 Years

About the Author

James L. Swanson (1959-2025) is the author of the New York Times bestseller Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer, which won an Edgar Award and was adapted into an acclaimed Apple TV+ series. His other books include Bloody Crimes: The Funeral of Abraham Lincoln and the Chase for Jefferson Davis. Swanson served on the advisory council of the Ford's Theatre Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Campaign and was a member of the advisory committee of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission.

Editorial Reviews

★ “A compelling drama. Readers will be fascinated. A brilliant book that is sure to be a hit with history aficionados.” — School Library Journal (starred review)

★ “Compelling. This fascinating twin study of two American icons will appeal to more than just Civil War buffs.”  — ALA Booklist (starred review)

“Relevant, provocative, and very well researched.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

From the Publisher

Relevant, provocative, and very well researched.

Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

★ “Compelling. This fascinating twin study of two American icons will appeal to more than just Civil War buffs.” 

ALA Booklist (starred review)