Foner's most recent book "Gateway to Freedom: The Hidden History of the Underground Railroad" (2015) was judged "Intellectually probing and emotionally resonant by the "Los Angeles Times." His previous book "The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery" (2010) was described by "Library Journal" as "Original and compelling. … In the vast library on Lincoln, Foner's book stands out as the most sensible and sensitive reading of Lincoln's lifetime involvement with slavery and the most insightful assessment of Lincoln's—and indeed America's—imperative to move toward freedom lest it be lost. An essential work for all Americans."