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Young Lincoln's Library
St. Nicholas
When Abraham Lincoln was a small boy he had very few books. There was no need for him to consult a list of the hundred best books. His earliest possessions consisted of less than half a dozen volumes—a pioneer's library.
First, of course, was the Bible, a whole library in itself, if properly understood, and containing every sort of literature—stories, poems, dramas, addresses, orations, histories, some simple enough for the youngest child others taxing the wisdom of the learned. Second was "Pilgrim's Progress," with its quaint characters and vivid scenes related in simple, vigorous English. "Aesop's Fables" was a third, and introduced the log-cabin boy to a wonderful range of characters—the gods of mythology, the different ranks and classes of mankind, and every animal under the sun. Fourth was a history of the United States, in which there was the charm of truth and a more modern tone, and from which were learned the lessons of patriotism that Lincoln's manhood put into action. Last came Weems' "Life of Washington," a queer, stilted book, but one full of detail that made Washington seem a living example.
These five books were the beginning of Lincoln's education; and what wise man has outgrown them all?
Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.
January 17, 1901 issue
View Issue-
Map of the Skies
with contributions from Brick Pomeroy
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Reply to an Editorial
Edward H. Keach
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In Reply to Professor Sheldon's Lecture
James A. Logwood
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The Lectures
with contributions from C. A. Buskirk, Robert L. Ziller
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MRS. EDDY TAKES NO PATIENTS
Editor
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Limitations
Editor
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Among the Churches
with contributions from E. L. W., M. Fannie Whitney
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An Interesting Event
with contributions from Annie M. Knott, William C. Maybury
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Doing the Disagreeable
with contributions from James Freeman Clark
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The Gardener
BY MARION P. HATCH.
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Emancipation
BY GRACE E. COLLINS.
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Faith in God
BY LADY VICTORIA MURRAY.
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A Timely Suggestion
BY ALBERT METCALF.
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A Business Man's Testimony
W. A. Carroll
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Love's Protecting Power
M. Florence Eustis
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An Illusion Dispelled
Edward H. Tobey
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Saved from Injury
Mary I. DeGroff
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Many Reasons for Gratitude
Adaline M. Apger