This is the novel that was the basis and inspiration for the classic John Ford movie starring John Wayne. The novel stands by itself as a great western. It possesses a uniquely American blend of characters, plot, theme and place; all that plus great dialogue and an abundance of irony. One of the best lines is when the leader of the Rangers, Colonel Sol Clinton, approaches the Comanche camp of Yellow Buckle, aka, “the forever elusive Chief Scar,” and instructs his men, “Leave us go amongst them.” A key moment is the revelation of the history of the ornament inscribed “Made in England.” Amos lies and tells Debbie it was inscribed with the words, “Ethan to Judith,” identifying the scalped parents of Martin Pauley. Of special interest is the author’s sweeping knowledge of Native American tribes.

~Reviewed by J.S. Bradford