Book Review: “Finding Lincoln” by Ann Malaspina

Recommended reading age: 4 to 8 (though kids of all ages can enjoy reading this with their families)

What Makes This One of the Best Children’s Books

Every American student learns about this country’s history of segregation – but some kids might not have a clear grasp of how it felt for Black people to actually experience it.

Ann Malaspina’s poignant book “Finding Lincoln” lends readers the chance to tread in the footsteps of a young Black student living in a segregated Alabama town in 1951. During his journey, brought to life by the lush colors of Colin Bootman’s illustrations, readers feel the boy’s helplessness and frustration at systemic prejudice and – miraculously – a swell of hope when someone shows him unexpected kindness.

While the country often coined “separate but equal” during segregation, Louis’ daily life proves quickly enough that’s not so. Fascinated with Abraham Lincoln, he asks his teacher about Lincoln’s childhood, which sparks the idea to write a report on the topic.

But Louis has no way to research this. The library for Black people in his town is paltry at best, with a few shelves of aging books on topics with little educational value.

The library for white people, on the other hand, is a grand mecca of the written word, with endless shelves of books on every subject. Thirsty for knowledge, he defies the Whites Only sign outside the door and dares to enter, taking a stand for his right to learn.

Inside, the white readers glower and snap and promptly lead him to the exit. He feels a flash of hope, however, when the librarian whispers for him to return after closing time.

When he does, a stunning event occurs. At the risk of losing her job, the librarian sneaks him inside and finds just the book he needs. The simple act of handing him the book proves an inspiring moment – her hands shake, but the firmness in her voice reflects she understands every child deserves the same opportunity to read and learn.

His taking a stand compelled her to do what was right.

When Louis opens up the book at home with wonder and excitement, Malaspina artfully parallels Lincoln’s childhood with Louis’. He reads how young Lincoln always defended what he felt was right, like stopping a group of kids from attacking an animal.

It beautifully underscores the book’s theme of how simple actions can turn into making a stand.

How My Son Reacted to This Book

I don’t know if my son in preschool is capable of fully comprehending the concept of segregation yet, but he followed the story with great interest and was exuberant when the main character finally obtained the library book.

He asked many questions about Louis’ circumstances – why didn’t the Black library have many books? Why wasn’t Louis allowed in the town’s diner? – and he listened with limited patience when I explained America’s history of segregation and racism.

I believe many children in elementary school would also appreciate this book, especially as they’re at the age when many classes start to broach the topic of segregation.

Potential Conversations to Pair with This Book

“Finding Lincoln” can serve as a useful tool in helping children begin to understand the tragic and complex history of race relations in America. This was one of the first books my son and I read together about segregation, giving him a direct introduction to what it was and what it meant for everyday life in this country.

I provided him with a basic explanation of segregation, and tried to help him understand by relating to the characters. I asked him how he would feel if he wasn’t allowed in the library, for instance – one his favorite places to visit – and how he thinks the boy in the story feels when the librarian aids him.

As my son grows older, I predict our conversations about this book (which I definitely intend to reread with him many times) will become more elaborate.