During a recent phone interview with Judy Shields, Assistant Editor of The Hollywood Times, the question of my book ‘Young Lincoln of New Salem’ becoming a movie came up.
I answered, “I think I write somewhat in visual terms and I think it has the elements that would lend itself to a film… I don’t think there has been a film in depth about his life in New Salem during those six years, and I believe my book would lend to such a thing.”
Pondering this idea further, I believe the only two classic films that touched upon his New Salem years, ‘Young Mr. Lincoln’ (John Ford’s 1939 film) and ‘Abe Lincoln in Illinois’ (1940 film) only did so in a highly legendary manner with many historical inaccuracies. So, in light of the recent Spielberg film (which only covered Lincoln’s final months as President), I think it’s about time for an in-depth motion picture covering Lincoln’s life in New Salem as those six years were the turning point in his life.
Lincoln’s New Salem years were full of triumph and tragedy, containing all the elements of history, romance, and a truly inspiring tale of a young man who never gave up and came to believe in himself.
So yes, I believe my book covering those years could be very easily adapted into a movie. In my case, I sincerely hope some gifted film maker would take up the challenge and produce a film on those years in Lincoln’s life.