Abraham Lincoln: A Giant Among Presidents (Townsend Library)

Abraham Lincoln grew up with little more than a second-grade education. His father thought school was a waste of time and wanted young Abe to learn carpentry and farming instead. Even so, Lincoln developed a love of reading so great that he would often walk five miles just to borrow a book. In time, his reading would help to shape a sharp mind, a keen sense of humor, and a kind heart.

Lincoln carried these qualities with him from a dirt-floor cabin in Kentucky all the way to the White House...