Sunday, April 25, 2010

Book- Abraham Lincoln- Vampire Hunter

I remember seeing the cover of this book a month or so ago coming through the library. A somewhat silent photograph of Lincoln passed my eyes, but there was something strange about it. I took a second glance. Reading the cover carefully, I had to laugh. Seth Grahame-Smith (author of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies- another book I need to read) has created a wonderfully readable, "fantastic" version of Lincoln's life.
Suppose America had been overrun with vampires- and suppose said vampires work behind the scenes of American history, including a secret battle over slavery- not just Southern slavery that culminated in the American Civil War, but the slavery of mankind by vampires. And then suppose that America's greatest president had personal dealings with these creatures of the night throughout his life, vowing to destroy all vampires on American soil.
Grahame-Smith's book blends historic truth, fable and fantasy in a fast paced story to save mankind's soul from dark tyranny.
Lincoln's life is described through a nararrator who has obtained, somewhat mysteriously, certain manuscripts and diaries of Lincoln's valiant conquests. Axes fly and heads are decapitated as Abraham hunts vampires supporting the spread of slavery and using humans as cattle.
Though somewhat slow in the beginning, the story quickens early enough to keep the reader engrossed in Abe's next conquest. History enthusiasts will find humor in which historical figures Grahame-Smith claims are vampires, vampire hunters, and collaborators to the vampires.
Have a fun time reading this book, and admire the "doctored" photography throughout. Rumor has it that Hollywood is already looking into a film version with the likes of Tim Burton asking for the script. Only Tim could bring this book to the screen. My guess- Johnny Depp as Henry.

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