The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War

Available to attend either in person or virtually via Zoom,

This story brings to life the pivotal five months between the election of Abraham Lincoln and the start of the Civil War–a slow-burning crisis that finally tore a divided nation in two. On November 6, 1860, Abraham Lincoln became the fluky victor in a tight race for president. Master storyteller Erik Larson offers a gripping account of the chaotic months between Lincoln’s election and the Confederacy’s shelling of Charleston’s Fort Sumter. Drawing on diaries, secret communiques, slave ledgers and plantation records, Larson gives us a political horror story that captures the forces that led America to the brink…a dark reminder that we often don’t see a cataclysm coming until too late.

This Library-sponsored book group is led by Diana Cunningham, Librarian, who selects the books to be discussed, chosen in consultation with Liz Anastasi, Head of Public Services, with feedback and suggestions from the group.

Pre-registration is required. Because of the size of the discussion group, no walk-ins are possible. Copies of the book to be discussed are available on a first-come, first serve basis. Contact the reference desk for more information.

Our programs are supported by the Friends of the Somers Library through our patrons' generous contributions.
The Somers Library ~ (914) 232-5717 ~ www.somerslibrary.org