Bestselling Author Coming to James A. Garfield National Historic Site

Candice Millard, a New York Times-bestselling author, is coming to 7 p.m. this Thursday to speak about and sign copies of her new Garfield biography.

The Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President examines Charles Guiteau’s attempted assassination of Garfield, including the Repulican factionalism that contributed to Guiteau's decision and the poor medical care Garfield received before dying.

It also details Alexander Graham Bell's role in trying to save the wounded president.

"James A. Garfield does not always receive a great deal of attention from authors, so we are very excited about Candice Millard’s new book," said Todd Arrington, the national park's chief of interpretation and education. "Ms. Millard’s writing style makes the book a fascinating read, and I think people will have a much greater appreciation for Garfield’s importance to American history after reading it."

The book has already garnered national attention.

CBS Sunday Morning correspondent Mo Rocca interviewed Millard Thursday at James A. Garfield National Historic Site. The story will run some time in October, Arrington said.

Furthermore, C-SPAN’s Book TV will be on hand to film Millard's event Thursday for broadcast on a future episode of that program.

The Destiny of the Republic, which was publishd by Doubleday, was released today.

Some copies will be available at Millard's presentation.

The event itself is free. However, space is limited and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

 “It’s a great pleasure to have both CBS News and C-SPAN at (the park,)” Arrington said. “Candice Millard’s new book and the media coverage of it all help us do our job of interpreting President Garfield’s life and distinguished career. They also remind us that Garfield should be remembered not only for the tragic manner in which he died, but also for what he accomplished in life.”