He Has Shot the President! April 14, 1865: The Day John Wilkes Booth Killed President Lincoln

A parent might reach for this book when their child is studying the Civil War or asks questions about why historical figures are assassinated. Don Brown's account meticulously details the events of April 14, 1865, from the plotting by John Wilkes Booth to the tragic shooting at Ford's Theatre and the ensuing manhunt. The book handles the inherent sadness and violence of the topic with historical accuracy and a direct, journalistic tone, making it accessible for middle-grade readers. It balances the gravity of the event with a compelling narrative, satisfying a child's curiosity about a pivotal moment in American history while also exploring themes of justice and the consequences of political extremism.