The riveting story of a cabin boy in the Union navy and his participation in 19 sea battles.
#29622 in Books Ingramcontent 2017-06-06 2017-06-06Original language:English 9.60 x 1.60 x 6.50l; .0 #File Name: 0871407698496 pagesThe Best Land Under Heaven The Donner Party in the Age of Manifest Destiny
Review
50 of 50 people found the following review helpful. Harrowing Tale of ConsequencesBy Rhys A MartinMy review in a single sentence: The Best Land Under Heaven is a detailed; humanizing portrait of a doomed American migration that underlines the fragility of the human condition.I; like most people; learned about the Donner Party from a textbook. The gruesome details of their fate are a byline in the narrative of westward expansion and Manifest Destiny. In this book; Michael Wallis pulls back the layers of myth and exaggeration and tells the story of the Donner and Reed families. Once I spent some time with them and got to know their dreams and aspirations; each poor decision or stroke of bad luck filled me with dread rather than the derision I felt all those years ago in the classroom.When their fate in the Sierra Nevada mountains became clear; I was not filled with macabre fascination but with great sorrow. The details of their survival that terrible winter are present in detail; made all the more powerful by the knowledge of who these people were. Their story is framed within the larger context of Manifest Destiny and the arrogant righteousness that blossomed in many westward pioneers.The narrative that leads the reader on a journey from Illinois to California flows easily thanks to Mr. Wallis' writing style; I read the entire book in two sittings. One might expect such a historical accounting to be dry; but if you've read any of Michael's other books you know he weaves a wonderful tale. The research undertaken was extensive and it shows through the detail present across the pages.It's a piece of American history; a showcase of frontier survival; and a powerful cautionary tale. Highly recommended.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Michael Wallis is a historian first. His account of ...By Barbara BranningMichael Wallis is a historian first. His account of facts and history of the westward expansion have been fascinating. Well written account!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Very informativeBy Molly OMalley BlairFamily members many; many years ago; crossed through the Donnor pass.Wanted to read as much as I could about the facts.
