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Throughout the turbulent 1850s, each had energetically sought the presidency as the conflict over slavery was leading inexorably to secession and civil war. That Lincoln succeeded was the result of a character that had been forged by life experiences that raised him above his more privileged and accomplished rivals. He won because hepossessed an extraordinary ability to put himself in the place of other men, to experience what they were feeling, to understand their motives and desires.

This capacity enabled President Lincoln to bring his disgruntled opponents together, create the most unusual cabinet in history, and marshal their talents to preserve the Union and win the war.

Average Customer Rating:

Thank you for adding the voices of women to this book

Customer Rating:

The thing I appreciated most about this book is that Goodwin allows us to experience the voices of women and the importance of the women around Lincoln, Chase, Seward, and Bates. Although it is changing, so much American history is delivered to us through the voices of men. Not only is this a great book about Lincoln's political genius, some that was new to me, but she highlights the role of those intelligent and strong women that shaped these men and influenced them in their views. I found their stories very compeling and I honor them in all the work they did to shape history to the present. I disagree with those who say that this book is dry and academic. Goodwin presents a perfect balance between academic history and a very good page turner. It was hard for me to put down.

Truly a Genius

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This well written book will be a joy to read for history buffs. Lincoln knew how to choose an effective cabinet and at the same time essentially eliminated political rivals by incorporating them into his cabinet. Lincoln kept his friends close but his enemies closer. Often you felt that the President was being overly cautious or hesitant, then discovered his reasoning to be so much more clearer and accurate than given credit for. Our country has been blessed with great leaders, but none greater than Abraham Lincoln.The author does a wonderful job of leading you through the story and through the thought processes of the President.

Collaborative Governance

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Team of Rivals will probably endure as one of my all time favorite books. As an educator I have witnessed first hand the benefits of collaboration. Effective leadership depends upon identifying and utilizing the strengths, talents, and abilities of every team member. It involves an absence of ego and a strong sense of purpose aimed at the collective good. An environment of acceptance and respect is also an essential element of creative problem solving. As per Doris Kearns-Goodwin Lincoln was the quintessential collaborator steering a course through the most divisive time in America's history accompanied by a diverse team of extraordinary statesmen. How right she is. Her book is a masterpiece and a joy to read.

Best Book in 30 Years

Customer Rating:

This book should be on the "must read" list for anyone who is either in a position of leadership, or would like to be. Having read this book I could completely understand how people make it their life's work, being a Lincoln scholar. While many have written of Lincoln, this author gives equal coverage to those critical to the success of his efforts, those who were so assured that they would be the presidencial nominee, that they did not even attend the convention. To learn how to work effectively with those who we may not necessarily like, is a lesson this country could stand to learn...quickly!

A closer look at Goodwin's upbeat take....

Customer Rating:

Professor Matthew Pinsker has an interesting (cautionary) critique of Goodwin's book, Op-Ed section 11/18/08 LA Times: "Lincoln and The Myth of Team of Rivals." He offers some good points to keep in mind while enjoying the book. The three stars are what Pinsker might have given, maybe four. See also Prof. James Oakes' piece in the NT Times, Op-Ed 11/20/08 for some further overdue de-hyping of Goodwin's book. Lincoln would recognize the names, but he probably would think the chemistry described by Goodwin never happened in his lab.