Publishers: Readers never tire of Lincoln

BOSTON, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. historians say renewed interest in Abraham Lincoln will spark the publication of at least 50 new books about him in the next two years.

The books are to include three biographies and books on his youth, his family, his political connections and his prowess as a military leader, writer and inventor, The Boston Globe reported Monday, noting at least seven of the books are being written for children.

"He's clearly the greatest hero, with a poignance and a sadness -- what he had to endure as president and in his personal life," said Alice Mayhew, editorial director of Simon & Schuster.

Feb. 12, 2009, marks the bicentennial of Lincoln's birth and Americans are longing for a great leader in these troublesome times, said historian Kate Clifford Larson, author of the "The Assassin's Accomplice," about the plot against Lincoln.

"Lincoln stands incredibly tall," said Clifford, a professor at Simmons College.