"Abraham Lincoln: Practical Mystic by Francis Grierson presents a unique interpretation of Lincoln’s character, emphasizing the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of his personality. Published in 1918, the book explores how Lincoln's deep intuition, moral insight, and inner strength shaped his leadership during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. Grierson argues that Lincoln was not just a politician or statesman but a “mystic” with a rare ability to connect practical governance with a profound moral vision.
The book delves into Lincoln’s reflections on human nature, justice, and destiny, suggesting that his decisions were often guided by a sense of higher purpose. Grierson examines moments in Lincoln’s life—such as the issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation and his handling of the Civil War—as examples of this fusion of pragmatism and spiritual insight. Lincoln’s humility, empathy, and patience emerge as key traits that enabled him to navigate complex challenges with wisdom.
Grierson’s narrative portrays Lincoln as a deeply contemplative leader, whose calm demeanor masked inner struggles and a profound awareness of the moral weight of his actions. This thoughtful and philosophical study offers readers a deeper appreciation of the inner life that complemented Lincoln’s public achievements, framing him as a rare blend of the practical and the transcendent. Narrated by Emmy Nominated actor Geoffrey Giuliano and The Scythe."
"Francis Grierson's, The Valley of Shadows, is truly a lost American classic. Written at the dawn of the twentieth century, the author has remarkably captured his adventures and observations as a child growing up on the prairies of Illinois in the years leading up the Civil War, in a region that was neither North nor South; neither for slavery nor against it; and how their small family farm became an unscheduled stop on the Underground Railroad.
Written in an authentic vernacular of the time, and populated by larger than life characters, Grierson has woven a tale of excitement and mystery, set in a second Garden of Eden of wildlife and nature. The prose and dialogue is like Shakespeare of the prairie. It reads like a cross between Tom Sawyer and Uncle Tom's Cabin, and stands out among all of the other books written about that era.
What people are saying:
“It has a quality not to be found in any other writing about the Civil War;'
'Its prose is alive, strong, subtle, of warm color, almost overpowering;'
'No one can read it, without finding new enlightenment about our past.”"
