Can I have some feedback?

[Laurie Verge]

As I have stated many times before, I am not well-versed in Lincoln history. Therefore, I am not an expert on what general Lincoln studies appeal to publishers and the public. However, I think your idea of focusing on a biography of Tarbell first makes good, hard common sense.

The material is there, ready to be written; her name is known to Lincoln historians, but probably not much more about her; any publisher has to be looking for something new and different related to Lincoln - and the name Sandburg might hint of "just more of the same" to many. The name Tarbell might make them perk up their ears. And, finally, the Tarbell work seems cost effective and less time consuming for you. Certainly the Sesquicentennial is a perfect time to stick your toes into the Lincoln tide.