Summer reading completed

I finished D. White's A. Lincoln.
His thesis that Lincoln continues to fascinate us because he eludes simple definitions and final judgments is an excellent idea.
I found his book very readable. I liked it because White's style was an easy going narrative that moved Lincoln's life forward without meandering side stories that were irrelevant.
He showed over and over how Lincoln's attitudes, reflections, writings, speeches, and all his actions evolved over time and changed as the situations dictated. Lincoln never was set in stone and was open for changes in his policies. He used the opposition for their strengths in his Cabinet.
He quite often would argue the opposing views as he tried to persuade.
It is interesting to note how Lincoln's writings, whether in letters or speeches, usually evolved from earlier thoughts and reflections. His writings were never extemporaneous or first drafts. He always would chew on a thought or idea over time. Very little was done without deliberation. Lincoln's style included rhetorical devises that were complex and beautifully used. Amazing, actually.
He was a studied and religious person. He contemplated the major ideas of his day. He was liberal in his thoughts of theology. He quite often would write ideas on scraps of paper and use them later in his speeches or letters.
As I stated, his policies over time evolved. He did not start the war with emancipation. He did not start the war over slavery. Over time, these things which he is known for came from necessities brought on by the war. They were war measures. He has been criticized for this in recent times. He, like us, are products of our time, and very few of us are enlightened.
I loved White's style. I could pick up the book at any time and read. He uses short breaks that allow reading at any pace. Some days I read pages by the dozen and others just a page or two. It is a captivating book that I am blessed to have read.
A good addition to my Civil War library.
Now, lots more Lincoln books to read!!