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49 pages 1 hour read

Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2006

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Book Brief

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James L. Swanson

Manhunt

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

444

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 1860s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Manhunt: The Twelve-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer details the events following the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865. The book follows Booth’s escape and the subsequent intense manhunt led by Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, culminating in Booth's capture and death. Notable figures involved, their actions, and their fates are also chronicled.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

35,336 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

James L. Swanson's Manhunt impresses with its meticulous research and fast-paced narrative, captivating readers with the intense manhunt for Abraham Lincoln's assassin. Critics praise its gripping storytelling and historical accuracy. However, some find the dense detail overwhelming at times. Overall, it's lauded as both educational and thrilling. MLA

Who should read this

Who Should Read Manhunt?

A reader who enjoys Manhunt by James L. Swanson likely appreciates meticulously researched historical narratives, particularly Civil War-era America. Comparable to readers of Erik Larson's The Devil in the White City and David McCullough's 1776, they crave thrilling, true accounts of America's pivotal moments and figures.

4.3

35,336 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

James L. Swanson

A popular historian known for his historical true crime thrillers, including a detailed account of the aftermath of President Lincoln's assassination. He has a background in government and policy think tanks.

A famous American stage actor known for his good looks and dramatic flair, who was a staunch Confederate supporter involved in a significant historical event during the Civil War era.

A pharmacist’s assistant and Confederate supporter known for his loyalty to Booth, contributing to a major historical conspiracy.

A Confederate secret service veteran who played a crucial role in helping Booth and his accomplice during their escape attempt after a notable event.

A Prussian immigrant and carriage painter involved in a Confederate plot related to a key historical figure, though ultimately hesitating in its execution.

A Confederate Army veteran involved in an aggressive action against a government official as part of a larger conspiracy, noted for his violent approach.

The 16th President of the United States, celebrated for his leadership during the Civil War and dedication to the Union, whose life was tragically cut short in a pivotal historical event.

Book Details
Pages

444

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 1860s

Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

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