2012

A girl named Quincy wandering the halls of the White House meets the ghost of Abe Lincoln. I did the illustrations in pen and ink with a nod to late 19th century editorial cartoons and engravings.

—Lane

★ STARRED

Abe’s Ichabod Crane–like angularity is set against an imaginative array of design elements, from the hand-lettered broadside printing of the nineteenth century to collages incorporating various patterns and effects—crackle, sponge-painting, spackle—that also lend an old-fashioned feel. However, Smith combines and juxtaposes these elements to create a look both bold and spectacular. Beyond its visual pleasures, the book effectively, and with a light touch, presents government as a work in progress rather than the done-deal children are usually taught; author’s notes (effectively pitched at a young audience) provide historical context.

Horn Book

★ STARRED

Quincy’s unexpectedly moving encounter presents American history not as a series of dry and inevitable events, but as Lincoln’s dream fulfilled.

Publishers Weekly

A fresh and intimate glimpse of the 16th president .… An adroit blend of humor, compassion and quiet optimism reflects the statesman’s character and make this a first choice for February or anytime. 

Kirkus

I was interviewed on All Things Considered HERE.