This collection presents the unfiltered voices of the American people who wrote to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. Harold Holzer, a noted Lincoln scholar, has curated a volume of correspondence that reveals the diverse sentiments—praise, criticism, advice, threats, and pleas—directed at the president. The letters offer a unique perspective on the national mood, including correspondence from black Americans that may not have reached Lincoln directly. Holzer's expert introduction and annotations provide essential historical context, illuminating the events and individuals depicted in this powerful collection.

This collection is regarded as a significant contribution to Civil War scholarship, offering direct access to the sentiments of the American populace during a tumultuous period. The inclusion of letters from black Americans, particularly those that may not have reached Lincoln, provides a crucial layer of historical understanding. Holzer's meticulous editing and contextualization are praised for making these primary sources accessible and meaningful to a broad audience. The volume serves as a powerful testament to the direct engagement between citizens and their president.