All books are shipped from New Zealand 📚

Try our Gift Wrap Service free this weekend only 🎁

WRAPITUP

Empire of the Summer Moon

Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History
4.24 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 59,251 ratings, 5,394 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Empire of the Summer Moon by S.C. Gwynne is a riveting historical account of the rise and fall of the Comanche tribe, focusing on the legendary figure Quanah Parker. The book delves into the tribe's fierce resistance to European settlers and their significant impact on American history. It's a blend of adventure, tragedy, and perseverance that shapes the Wild West era.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2999
GET IT FOR CHRISTMAS | OVERNIGHT DELIVERY

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you have an interest in the history of the American West, Native American culture, or military strategy. It vividly narrates the rise and fall of the Comanche Nation, offering a gripping exploration of their resilience and influence. Perfect for history enthusiasts who appreciate well-researched and engaging storytelling.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Empire of the Summer Moon

The New York Times bestselling history of the Comanches in the tradition of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee.

The New York Times bestselling history of the Comanches in the tradition of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Empire of the Summer Moon transports readers to the turbulent era of the mid-19th century American West, where the fierce and formidable Comanche tribe clashed with white settlers. At the heart of this gripping historical narrative are two intersecting sagas: the rise and eventual fall of the Comanches, known as the most powerful Indian tribe in American history, and the epic journey of Cynthia Ann Parker and her remarkable son, Quanah Parker.

The first story unveils the Comanche tribe's unyielding grip on their land and their unmatched prowess in warfare. Known for their extraordinary horse-riding skills, Comanche boys were adept bareback riders by the age of six and full-fledged braves were recognised as the best horsemen to have ever ridden. Their mastery in battle and their expertise with arrows and lances enabled them to halt the northern advance of colonial Spain from Mexico and impede the westward push of the French from Louisiana. Their legendary fighting skills played a pivotal role in determining the opening of the American West, rolling the frontier backwards in a valiant defence of their homeland against incoming white settlers from the eastern United States.

Amidst this backdrop, author S.C. Gwynne introduces the harrowing yet captivating tale of Cynthia Ann Parker, a nine-year-old girl who, in 1836, was kidnapped by the Comanches. Cynthia assimilated into the tribe, developing a deep bond and earning the infamous moniker of the "White Squaw" for her refusal to return to white society until her tragic recapture by Texas Rangers in 1860. Her story is intertwined with that of her son, Quanah Parker, who emerged as the last and greatest chief of the Comanches. Known for his unwavering spirit and guerrilla warfare tactics in the Texas Panhandle, Quanah's formidable legacy remains unvanquished.

Gwynne's narrative brilliance lies in his meticulous research and intellectually provocative insights, artfully intertwined with thrilling storytelling. Empire of the Summer Moon is not merely a historical account but a vivid portrayal of the American West's formative conflicts, the indomitable spirit of the Comanche tribe, and the enduring legacy of Cynthia Ann and Quanah Parker. This book stands in the esteemed tradition of historical works like Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, offering readers a stunningly vivid and deeply moving chronicle of a pivotal chapter in American history.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

S.C. Gwynne's Empire of the Summer Moon has been highly praised for its riveting narrative and vivid storytelling. Critics describe it as a masterful recounting of the Texas frontier and the Comanche nation, with Gwynne's energetic prose bringing history to life. The book has been noted for its thorough research and engaging, pulse-pounding style, though some have found it challenging to identify a clear historical thesis within its epic narrative.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781849017039

Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 July 2011

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Constable

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 33.0mm

Width: 200.0mm

Height: 133.0mm

Weight: 359g

Pages: 496

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

About the Author

S.C. Gwynne is an award-winning journalist who worked for Time from 1988 to 2000. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, and Harper's Magazine. He lives in Austin, Texas.

More from History & Military

View all

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent specialist on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our cozy 200m2 warehouse in Auckland holds over 10,000 books in-stock so you're not waiting for books to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Pick Ups

Auckland Pick Ups

We're an online-only store but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.

Reviews from our customers