Lost Conversations with Abraham Lincoln

Explore lost conversations in the life of Abraham Lincoln, from 1831-1861, through five captivating historical fiction stories. Delve into Lincoln's personal and political world as he engages in hypothetical dialogues with family, friends, and historical figures, shedding light on his virtues and moral compass.

In 'Lost Conversations with Abraham Lincoln,' Gordon Shepherd transports readers back to the formative years of one of America's most iconic figures. This thought-provoking volume consists of five compelling historical fiction stories that revolve around plausible lost conversations during selected moments in the life of Abraham Lincoln, spanning from 1831 to 1861, just before his ascendancy to the White House on the eve of the Civil War. Shepherd skillfully weaves a tapestry of narratives, drawing from the rich historical tapestry of Lincoln's life. These stories delve into conversations that Lincoln might have had with various individuals, including family members, friends, political colleagues, adversaries, and acquaintances. Through these dialogues, readers gain insight into Lincoln's complex emotions about his family of origin, his marriage, religion, politics, American vigilante violence, and the moral disgrace of American slavery. The stories' titles, ranging from 'Thomas Lincoln's Son Encounters the World Beyond Pigeon Creek' to 'Father Abraham and the Ghosts of Nauvoo,' provide a captivating glimpse into key moments in Lincoln's life that often go overlooked in mainstream history. Shepherd deftly explores the lesser-known aspects of Lincoln's character and beliefs, shedding light on his virtues rather than his shortcomings. A unique aspect of this collection is the inclusion of three stories that touch on early Mormonism, placing Lincoln in hypothetical conversations concerning the doctrinal peculiarities and contentious expansion of this controversial new religion in New York, Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois.

Gordon Shepherd, a Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Sociology at the University of Central Arkansas, brings his extensive academic background and passion for history to this enlightening work. Born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, Shepherd earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Utah and his PhD from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. In collaboration with his brother, Gary, he has authored numerous academic articles and several books on religious topics and social change. His literary repertoire also includes a boyhood memoir, 'Growing Up in the City of the Saints,' and a collection of short stories in 'Stories of Forgotten Sports Idols and Other Ordinary Mortals.' 'Lost Conversations with Abraham Lincoln' is a thought-provoking journey into the mind and soul of a legendary figure, shedding new light on Lincoln's virtues, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice in a time of crisis and uncertainty.