Manhunt

The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer

De: James L. Swanson

Narrado por: Richard Thomas

The murder of Abraham Lincoln set off the greatest manhunt in American history -- the pursuit and capture of John Wilkes Booth. From April 14 to April 26, 1865, the assassin led Union cavalry troops on a wild, twelve-day chase from the streets of Washington, D.C., across the swamps of Maryland, and into the forests of Virginia.

At the very center of this story is John Wilkes Booth, Americas notorious villain. A confederate sympathizer and member of a celebrated acting family, Booth threw away his fame, wealth, and promise for a chance to avenge the Souths defeat. For almost two weeks, he confounded the manhunters, slipping away from their every move and denying the justice they sought.

Manhunt is a fully documented work, but it is also a fascinating tale of murder, intrigue, and betrayal. A gripping hour-by-hour account told through the eyes of the hunted and the hunters, this is history as youve never read it before.

A good story and not a dry documentary text book.

I put off buying this audio book for a while because I really don’t like abridgements. Since there is no unabridged version available I decided to give it a shot. Pun intended?

Abridged or not, I loved Manhunt. The last time I was on F street, you could see the back of Ford’s Theater though the vacant lot that was once the Atlantic building. The alley I always new as “Rat Alley” was still there, but without the right side wall, it looked very strange. I’m sure there is a building at 930 F now, but I haven’t been by to see. The book is wonderful, and I enjoyed the interview with the author as well. I usually skip over them. This is a STORY about people, not a textbook, and I recommend it.

There were some things I wanted to know about that were not mentioned. I had hoped that Francis Tumblety (Spelling? He was a flamboyant Jack the Ripper suspect) who was arrested and held during the manhunt would have been mentioned. I don’t think this is a fault, I was just hoping to hear more about people who were falsely or erroneously arrested and held after the assassination. That might have been too much for one novel.

I would still like to have an unabridged recording, and would buy it if one because available. I’ll buy the print version in any event.

Excellent

This is an excellent book that goes quickly. We all have some basic knowledge of what happened when President Lincoln was killed; however there is so much more to the story. I think I especially appreciate this because I am a resident of Maryland and recognized a lot of the places in the book. I believe anyone who enjoys history would love this one.

Well Written!

This is the best book I have ever listened to or read. It is well written, and tells so much more than we were taught in school. This book left me wanting more info!! I bought 2 books after listening to this, one to give as a gift and one for me to keep. Try it!!!

Loved this Book!

Would you consider the audio edition of Manhunt to be better than the print version?

N/a

What does Richard Thomas bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Yes

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No

Any additional comments?

Kept me engaged the entire time. I've recommended this book to several friends.

Fascinating! Extremely well researched.

I knew virtually nothing about this important event in our history. The details in this book are amazing. I look forward to reading more from James L. Swanson. Richard Thomas did an excellent job as narrator.