School Library Journal Review
Gr 2-4-A picture book account of Kate Warne, who in 1856 was hired by Allen Pinkerton, founder of the famous detective agency and a protector of President Lincoln. As a detective, Warne used disguises and deceptions and was very successful in capturing lawbreakers. In 1861, she played a vital role in uncovering a plot to assassinate the president as he passed through Baltimore on his way to Washington, DC. In order to foil the plot, Lincoln followed Pinkerton's advice and slipped unannounced into the city. Warne traveled with the president-elect on the train from Philadelphia to Baltimore and played an essential part in Lincoln's safe arrival in the nation's capital. The pages are filled with colorful drawings, and readers will appreciate the wide-eyed, cartoonlike characters. VERDICT An interesting story about a woman who played an important role in our nation's history.-Patricia Ann Owens, formerly with Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, Mt. Carmel © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Van Steenwyk gives youngsters a look at the life of Kate Warne, the first female detective in the U.S. and employee of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, focusing on her role in getting Abraham Lincoln safely to Washington, D.C., for his 1861 inauguration. This brief biography takes readers through some of Warne's early career, highlighting her knack for working undercover. Bright digital illustrations show Warne pretending to be a fortune-teller and party-going socialite while trying to crack different cases. Her biggest success came four years into her career, when she played a pivotal role in thwarting an assassination attempt on Lincoln's life, as he traveled to the capital to be sworn into office. Van Steenwyk appropriately paints the story with excitement and intrigue, and she includes how Warne's success as a detective helped create more opportunities for women. Some vocabulary will be beyond beginning readers (inaugural, secessionist, etc.), but Warne's fascinating exploits and penchant for disguise will easily hold their attention. An author's note offers additional information on Warne's life.--Smith, Julia Copyright 2016 Booklist
