Based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s #1 New York Times Bestselling 2005 book, Team of Rivals; directed by Steven Spielberg; and featuring a star-studded cast, Lincoln is destined for greatness. The film, which hit theaters in December 2012, examines the most turbulent period of our sixteenth president’s leadership: Lincoln’s efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment in the House of Representatives against the backdrop of the Civil War.

This unique making-of book begins by presenting a popular historical narrative that focuses on the main storyline depicted in the film. It also builds on what is covered in the film, including more extensive information about the issues and events of the time while describing important related topics that could not be accommodated or fully explored in the script.

The second part of the book focuses on the filmmakers and the craft they used to bring Lincoln’s story to life. Its main theme is the effort to create authenticity and to depict Lincoln as a living, working, feeling man struggling with the most dramatic and defining issues of American history. Accompanied by onset photography and development art, the text employs relevant quotes from the filmmakers as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes details. A rich portrait of America’s maturation, this book is a necessary addition to the collections of history buffs and film buffs alike!