Lincoln in the Bardo is George Saunders' ambitious debut novel that reimagines Abraham Lincoln's profound grief over his son Willie's death in 1862. The book unfolds entirely in a cemetery where spirits linger in a liminal state called the 'bardo,' unable to move on to whatever comes next.

Saunders employs a kaleidoscopic narrative structure, with dozens of ghostly voices—from Willie Lincoln himself to a gay man who died by suicide, a reverend questioning his faith, and various historical figures—creating a chorus of the dead that's both haunting and surprisingly funny.

The author's trademark blend of humor and pathos shines as these spirits grapple with unfinished business, regret, and the difficulty of letting go. Historical excerpts from real and fictional sources about the Lincoln White House are woven throughout, grounding the fantastical elements in documented grief.

This book will appeal to readers who enjoy experimental fiction, particularly those drawn to innovative narrative structures and unconventional approaches to historical events. Fans of literary fiction that tackles weighty themes through unexpected angles will find much to appreciate.

However, readers seeking straightforward historical fiction or traditional ghost stories should look elsewhere. The fragmented, multi-voice structure can feel disorienting, and some may find the constant perspective shifts exhausting rather than illuminating. The pacing is deliberately slow, focusing more on emotional revelation than plot momentum. While Saunders' empathy for his characters is evident, the experimental format sometimes creates distance between reader and story. The book's meditation on loss, parenthood, and the American Civil War era is profound, but it demands patience and openness to unconventional storytelling. Those who connect with its unique approach will find a deeply moving exploration of how we process grief and historical trauma.