Good Brother, Bad Brother

By James Cross Giblin

Two brothers clash during the Civil War, leading to a nation's darkest moment.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 272 ratings

244 pages· 62,851 words· Est. 7 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

In a nation divided by the Civil War, two brothers stand on opposing sides. Edwin Booth, introspective and loyal to the Union, contrasts sharply with his passionate brother, John Wilkes Booth, a fervent Confederate supporter. As their paths diverge, John's infamous act of assassinating President Lincoln shatters their family and alters history. This gripping biography delves into their complex relationship, exploring how one brother's dark legacy overshadows the other's revered career. What drove John to such extremes, and how did Edwin cope with the aftermath? Discover the personal and political turmoil that defined their lives.

From the publisher

Edwin Booth and his younger brother John Wilkes Booth were, in many ways, two of a kind. They were among America’s finest actors, having inherited their father’s commanding stage presence along with his penchant for alcohol and impulsive behavior. In other respects, the two brothers were very different. Edwin was more introspective, while John was known for his passionate intensity. They stood at opposite poles politically, as well: Edwin voted for Abraham Lincoln; John was an ardent advocate of the Confederacy. Award-winning author James Cross Giblin draws on first-hand accounts of family members, friends, and colleagues to create vivid images of Edwin Booth and his brother John Wilkes, best known today as the man who shot Abraham Lincoln. He traces the events leading up to the assassination and describes the effects of John Wilkes’s infamous deed on himself, his family, and his country. Comprehensive and compelling, this dual portrait illuminates a dark and tragic moment in the nation’s history and explores the complex legacy of two leading men–one revered, the other abhorred. Notes, bibliography, index.