About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is starting to ask complex questions about the morality of history, the cost of expansion, and the reality of conflict between different cultures. While many historical novels provide a one-sided view, this gritty narrative explores the 1866 Red Cloud's War with a focus on survival, duty, and the tragic consequences of broken treaties. It is an ideal choice for a reader who is ready to move past simplified hero-and-villain tropes and engage with the harsh realities of the American frontier. The book follows the soldiers building Fort Phil Kearny and the indigenous coalition led by Chief Red Cloud who sought to protect their land. It emphasizes themes of resilience, bravery under fire, and the high stakes of territorial disputes. Because it was published in 1969, it reflects the intense and often violent nature of the era it depicts. Parents should choose this book for a mature middle-schooler or high-schooler who appreciates historical accuracy and is looking for a story that prompts deeper reflection on justice and cultural survival.
