Lincoln before Washington: NEW PERSPECTIVES ON THE ILLINOIS YEARS
"Wilson, using Herndon's research, not only examines the affinities between Lincoln and Jefferson but also Lincoln's relationships with Ann Rutledge and Mary Todd, his love of poetry, his belief in the tenets of the Declaration of Independence, and Herndon's legacy. With these essays, Wilson emphasizes the value of Herndon's informants and their insights into the young and maturing Lincoln... The challenge to know Lincoln continues, and this book is an important contribution." -- Patricia Ann Owens, Journal of Illinois History