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Informative,
Interesting,
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19 reviews

Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker: A Novel
by Jennifer Chiaverini

Published: 2013-09-24
Paperback : 384 pages
12 members reading this now
84 clubs reading this now
19 members have read this book
Recommended to book clubs by 14 of 19 members
New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Chiaverini’s compelling historical novel unveils the private lives of Abraham and Mary Lincoln through the perspective of the First Lady’s most trusted confidante and friend, her dressmaker, Elizabeth Keckley.
 
In a life that spanned nearly a ...
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Introduction

New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Chiaverini’s compelling historical novel unveils the private lives of Abraham and Mary Lincoln through the perspective of the First Lady’s most trusted confidante and friend, her dressmaker, Elizabeth Keckley.
 
In a life that spanned nearly a century and witnessed some of the most momentous events in American history, Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley was born a slave. A gifted seamstress, she earned her freedom by the skill of her needle, and won the friendship of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln by her devotion.

A sweeping historical novel, Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker illuminates the extraordinary relationship the two women shared, beginning in the hallowed halls of the White House during the trials of the Civil War and enduring almost, but not quite, to the end of Mrs. Lincoln’s days.

Editorial Review

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Excerpt

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Discussion Questions

Suggested by Members

How did Elizabeth Keckley use her position in the White House to help her people?
What is there about Mrs. Keckley's life experiences that make her a good companion to Mrs. Lincoln?
Why is Mrs. Keckley unable to restore her former position in society and business after she and Mrs. Lincoln part ways?
by hollidaypark (see profile) 08/07/14

Notes From the Author to the Bookclub

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Book Club Recommendations

Member Reviews

Overall rating:
 
 
by Kathy B. (see profile) 12/07/21

 
by Jenny W. (see profile) 12/10/19

 
by jan c. (see profile) 11/22/19

 
by Leah B. (see profile) 07/30/19

 
by denise w. (see profile) 06/05/19

 
by Erica C. (see profile) 05/10/17

 
  "A new perspective"by Katie C. (see profile) 02/21/17

If u like historic fiction, this is for you. Almost too detailed. The dressmaker's loyalty quality is almost too good to be true. Provides new perspectives on the assassination of President Lincoln. Had... (read more)

 
by Vicky N. (see profile) 06/11/16

 
  "Superficial history lesson"by Kay M. (see profile) 05/20/16

Read this only if you are really curious about Mrs. Lincoln. The story of the dressmaker is shallow and I didn't feel any true emotion for her - it felt like she was just there to give a reason for a... (read more)

 
by Nancy W. (see profile) 02/17/16

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