America’s Book Club at Ford’s Theatre
Presented by 
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
Featuring An Inconvenient Widow: The Torment, Trial, and Triumph of Mary Todd Lincoln by Lois Romano
Step into one of the most intimate and revealing chapters of American history at this special installment of America’s Book Club at Ford’s Theatre. This program spotlights An Inconvenient Widow: The Torment, Trial, and Triumph of Mary Todd Lincoln, a powerful new biography by Lois Romano that reexamines the life of one of the nation’s most misunderstood First Ladies.
In this compelling conversation, Romano brings fresh insight to Mary Todd Lincoln—a woman often defined by tragedy, controversy and public scrutiny. Drawing from newly uncovered sources and deep historical research, An Inconvenient Widow explores Mary Lincoln’s resilience in the aftermath of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, revealing a complex figure navigating grief, politics and a relentless spotlight.
Romano is joined in conversation by historian, civic leader and philanthropist David M. Rubenstein, who helps unpack the book’s themes and their relevance today.
A Conversation in a Historic Place
Held at Ford’s Theatre—the site forever linked to Abraham Lincoln’s final moments—this event offers a uniquely powerful setting to reflect on Mary Lincoln’s life after loss.
About the Series
America’s Book Club is a weekly primetime television series on C-SPAN hosted by acclaimed author, civic leader and interviewer David M. Rubenstein. It brings viewers into lively, thought-provoking conversations with leading authors, policymakers, business innovators and cultural figures, exploring the ideas that have shaped America’s past, challenge its present and inspire its future.
An Inconvenient Widow: The Torment, Trial, and Triumph of Mary Todd Lincoln by Lois Romano will be available for purchase at Ford’s Theatre.