Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

This is an excellent insight into one of the most written about leaders. While much of the basic story is familiar, it was the background into Lincoln's election, and the insight into how he choose cabinet members from among those running against him, and then how the strengths and personality traits of those men all contributed toward the civil war, the leadership of the country and the ultimate end of the war. The author included stories that gave a more personal view of Lincoln, his family and cabinet. There are lessons to be learned from the thought, deliberation and even approach Lincoln took toward everything. I'll be recommending this to friends (already purchased a hard copy for my father!).

5 of 5 people found this review helpful.

this is a great book. I was totally engrossed in all of the fascinating stories of these men and women during this most important era. Highly recommended

3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

You don't have to be a civil war expert to follow the storyline. It gives great detail into the whole cabinet and how Lincoln played puppeteer to keep such an odd group together. Well written and educational. Be warned that the book is quite long (+9 hrs.), but flows smoothly from the Republican convention through his assassination.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

While many books on the Civil War focus on the battles and strategy, not many focus as strongly on the politics as this one. An excellent book whose only weakness is too much passion for the greatness of the Lincoln presidency and not enough balance on some of his shortcomings. From the start, the book covers the genius of Lincoln's chosen inner circle from William Seward to Salmon Chase. It shows how Lincoln navigated the dangerous waters of bringing strong wills into his cabinet and then utilizing their insight and intelligence to help keep the Union together. Richard "John Boy" Thomas does an excellent reading of the book. My only disappointment is that this is an abridged version. An excellent source of political history from a quality writer.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

Great read one can only wish these kinds of people were still around in our current government.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Very well told and an interesting perspective. I personally wish Doris Goodwin had narrated the whole thing. I\'d recommend the unabridged version - it seemed a lot was cut out.

This is an excellent insight into one of the most written about leaders. While much of the basic story is familiar, it was the background into Lincoln\'s election, and the insight into how he choose cabinet members from among those running against him, and then how the strengths and personality traits of those men all contributed toward the civil war, the leadership of the country and the ultimate end of the war. The author included stories that gave a more personal view of Lincoln, his family and cabinet. There are lessons to be learned from the thought, deliberation and even approach Lincoln took toward everything. I\'ll be recommending this to friends (already purchased a hard copy for my father!).

A great book of how a President managed the position, the cabinet, and the office. Should be a required reading for those who occupy or want to occupy that position.

My favorite kind of book - one that is thoroughly enjoyable to read/listen to and that teaches me something. I wish all history could be taught in this way -

This is a very good historical account of Lincolns politic career. For me, it got a little too much into the details at times, but I tend to like fewer details. Overall, it was a good book, especially for anyone who likes Lincoln history or American history.