Subject
Dakota Indians -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charles A. Eastman
Old Indian Days
"Old Indian Days" by Charles A. Eastman is a collection of short stories reflecting the life and experiences of Native Americans, particularly the Sioux, written during the late 19th century. The stories convey themes of courage, tradition, and the complexities of love within the cultural context of the Sioux people, presenting tales of both warriors and women, highlighting their struggles and triumphs. The opening portion of the book introduces the main character, Antelope, a young Sioux warrior who seeks honor and distinction amongst his people. As he prepares for a scouting mission, his ambitions are juxtaposed with his feelings for Taluta, a beautiful maiden of his tribe. The narrative follows Antelope as he faces challenges in the wilderness, engages in battles, and experiences personal growth fueled by his love for Taluta. The stories blend adventure and emotion, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Antelope's character and the cultural values of the Sioux people.
B. M. Bower
The Heritage of the Sioux
"The Heritage of the Sioux" by B.M. Bower is a fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of New Mexico and revolves around the experiences of Annie-Many-Ponies, a young Sioux woman who captures the admiration of the ranch's inhabitants, including the director Luck Lindsay and the ranch hand Applehead. The novel explores themes of identity, cultural clash, and personal ambition as Annie navigates her place in a world that often marginalizes her heritage. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Applehead, who feels a sudden surge of ambition as spring arrives, prompting him to plan an independent cattle roundup. Meanwhile, Annie-Many-Ponies, the daughter of a chief, finds herself at the ranch continuing her role in the film industry. A tension is established between her and Applehead, who holds cultural prejudices against her Native American background. The opening chapters depict the dynamics among the characters, including Annie’s growing attraction to Ramon Chavez and the jealousy it incites from Applehead and Bill Holmes, setting the stage for conflict and drama in this vivid portrayal of life on the ranch during the spring roundup.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
The Lost Trail
"The Lost Trail" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a novel set in the early 19th century that follows the adventurous journey of a young frontiersman named Jack Carleton. The story begins as Jack embarks on a quest searching for his friend Otto Relstaub, who has been spurred into a frantic gallop due to the threat of wild Indians, which was a real danger in the unforgiving wilderness of the American frontier. The book captures the essence of survival, friendship, and bravery against the backdrop of natural beauty and perils. The opening of the novel introduces Jack as he follows a horse's fleeing trail through the forests of Kentucky, tapping into the rich imagery of the landscape and Jack's acute awareness as a seasoned woodsman. As Jack navigates his environment, he encounters a cougar in a tree, highlighting his courage and composure in the face of danger. After a tense confrontation, he moves forward, worried for Otto's safety and suspecting Indian presence. The tension escalates as Jack must hide and strategize his next moves when he unexpectedly encounters Shawanoe Indians. The chapter is steeped in suspense, showcasing not only Jack's skills but also foreshadowing potential conflicts as he aims to outsmart the threats around him. Overall, the beginning of "The Lost Trail" presents an engaging introduction to the trials of frontier life and sets the stage for a tale of resilience and adventure.
William Francis Butler
Red Cloud, the Solitary Sioux: A Story of the Great Prairie
"Red Cloud, the Solitary Sioux: A Story of the Great Prairie" by Butler is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the journey of a young man who leaves his childhood home in Glencar to explore the vast wilderness of Western America, focusing on his companionship with a solitary Sioux named Red Cloud. The book delves into themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the complexities of the lives of Native Americans, particularly in the context of their interactions with settlers and the encroachment of civilization. The opening of the story paints a vivid backdrop of the protagonist's idyllic upbringing in Glencar, with its lush landscapes and formative experiences. The narrator recounts his early glimpses of the outside world and his dreams of adventure, culminating in a pivotal decision to set forth into the unknown. As he embarks on his journey, he is accompanied by his loyal friend Donogh, and the narrative hints at their encounters with Native tribes, including Red Cloud, as they traverse the intricate and uncharted territories of the Great Prairie. The introduction sets the stage for a tale rich in exploration and cultural encounters amid the wild expanse.
Joseph Mills Hanson
With Sully into the Sioux Land
"With Sully into the Sioux Land" by Joseph Mills Hanson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the dangerous and tumultuous period surrounding the Sioux uprisings in Minnesota during the summer and fall of 1862. It focuses on the Briscoe family, particularly on the experiences of young Al Briscoe as he navigates the collapse of their frontier life amidst widespread violence and chaos instigated by hostile M'dewakanton and Wakpekute Indians. The opening of the narrative introduces the Briscoe family as they face an imminent threat from the Sioux after news of an uprising reaches them. Mr. Briscoe hurriedly returns home from Fort Ridgely to warn his family of the dangers. As panic escalates, the Briscoes prepare to flee to safety but are violently confronted by a group of attacking Indians. In a swift and harrowing sequence, Mr. Briscoe is killed, and his youngest son, Tommy, is captured. The beginning sets a dark and tense atmosphere, laying the groundwork for Al's subsequent journey of survival, resilience, and the desperate search for his brother amidst the horrors of war and conflict in their newfound home.
Charles King
A Daughter of the Sioux: A Tale of the Indian frontier
"A Daughter of the Sioux: A Tale of the Indian Frontier" by Charles King is a historical novel set in the late 19th century. The story takes place on the American frontier and follows the life of Lieutenant Beverly Field as he navigates the complexities of military duty and personal relationships amidst the rising tensions with Native American tribes. Key characters include Field, who is dedicated but distracted by his feelings for Esther Dade, and the captivating newcomer, Nanette Flower, who adds to the drama at Fort Frayne. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Major Webb and Lieutenant Field as they grapple with the lieutenant's frequent requests for absences to spend time with the lovely Esther Dade. The tension grows as it becomes evident that another woman, Nanette Flower, who has just arrived at Fort Frayne, captivates the attention of Field and other officers, inciting jealousy from Esther. As the chapter unfolds, it sets the stage for a sense of impending conflict, both personal and in terms of the looming threat from hostile Sioux forces. The relationships between the characters, particularly the dynamics between Field, Esther, and Nanette, foreshadow deeper complications that are likely to influence the unfolding story.
Bertram Mitford
Golden Face: A Tale of the Wild West
"Golden Face: A Tale of the Wild West" by Bertram Mitford is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores themes of friendship, conflict, and the interactions between Native Americans and white settlers in the American West, focusing on the lives of two main characters, Smokestack Bill, a rugged scout, and Rupert Vipan, a mysterious Englishman with a hidden past. As they navigate the harsh realities of frontier life, they find themselves entangled in political intrigue and moral dilemmas regarding loyalty and survival. At the start of the novel, the narrative introduces Smokestack Bill and Rupert Vipan as they take shelter in a log cabin amidst a fierce winter storm in the Black Hills. The men are alert to the sounds of potential danger outside, suspecting the presence of a war party of Native Americans. Their conversation reveals the tensions surrounding their lives as prospectors in a territory claimed by Native American tribes. The scene shifts with the entrance of War Wolf, a young Sioux warrior who brings a message from tribal chiefs, revealing the complexities of their relationships and the impending conflicts, as Vipan contemplates the possibilities of wealth and retribution against those who have wronged him. The vivid depiction of their surroundings and the characters’ thoughts sets the stage for the thrilling adventures and moral choices that lie ahead.
Jos. E. (Joseph Edward) Badger
Dusky Dick: or, Old Toby Castor's great campaign A story of the last Sioux outbreak
"Dusky Dick: or, Old Toby Castor's Great Campaign" by Jos. E. Badger is a novel written in the early 1870s. The narrative focuses on the struggles of settlers during the Sioux uprisings and introduces the character Dusky Dick, a man with a notorious reputation whose motivations are shrouded in suspicion. As the story unfolds, the pivotal characters include Edward Wilson and his daughter Annie, who find themselves embroiled in a conflict that involves threats from both native tribes and their own neighbor. At the start of the novel, we meet Edward Wilson and his daughter Annie at their log cabin when Dusky Dick arrives with alarming news of impending Sioux unrest. While Wilson is initially wary of Dick, he recognizes the urgency of the situation. They soon learn that the Sioux plan to attack nearby settlements, and Dick proposes a controversial deal to Wilson, demanding Annie's hand in marriage in exchange for protecting their homestead. The tension escalates leading to conflict, as characters grapple with treachery, hospitality, and the looming threat of violence, setting the stage for a gripping tale of survival.
Oll Coomes
The Boy Ranger; or, The Heiress of the Golden Horn
"The Boy Ranger; or, The Heiress of the Golden Horn" by Oll Coomes is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a young protagonist named Rollo, who is known as the Boy Ranger, as he navigates the dangers and complexities of life on the American frontier, where threats from both Native Americans and outlaws loom large. The novel presents a mix of adventure, bravery, and romance as Rollo becomes embroiled in a series of conflicts that test his courage and resolve. At the start of the narrative, Rollo rides across the plains toward Clontarf's Post, where he discovers that a man named Dick Sherwood is facing execution for his crimes. Just as the settlers conduct the hanging, Rollo spots a group of armed Indians preparing to attack the settlement. Unable to stand by, he warns the settlers of impending danger, which leads to a chaotic confrontation with the invading savages. Throughout this opening portion, themes of justice, moral dilemmas, and the fight for survival are established, setting the stage for Rollo's heroic journey as he balances his role as a defender of his community with challenges posed by his adversaries.
T. C. (Thomas Chalmers) Harbaugh
Midnight Jack, or The road-agent
"Midnight Jack, or The Road-Agent" by T. C. Harbaugh is a novel set during the late 19th century that explores themes of vengeance, bravery, and the clash between different cultures in the American West. The story revolves around Midnight Jack, a notorious road agent, and his quest to rescue his sister and avenge his family's honor against their Sioux captors. This work falls within the genre of adventure fiction and paints a vivid picture of the lawless era of the American frontier. The narrative follows Midnight Jack as he navigates the treacherous landscape marked by conflict between settlers and Native Americans. After his sister, Dora, is captured by Sioux warriors, Jack embarks on a perilous journey to save her, encountering various challenges including confrontations with enemies like the whisky smuggler Tanglefoot and the vile Golden George. Accompanied by allies like Rube Rattler and Gopher Gid, Jack must confront his past while striving for redemption. The climax unfolds against the backdrop of the sun-dance ritual, where Jack’s determination and courage are put to the ultimate test as he fights for his sister's freedom and faces profound moral dilemmas. Through thrilling encounters and emotional revelations, the book delivers a gripping tale of loyalty and retribution in a tumultuous period of American history.
Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander) Altsheler
The Great Sioux Trail: A Story of Mountain and Plain
"The Great Sioux Trail: A Story of Mountain and Plain" by Joseph A. Altsheler is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds during the tumultuous period following the Civil War, focusing on young Clarke and his companion Boyd as they navigate through the vast and perilous American West, encountering the powerful Sioux nation led by the resolute chief Red Cloud. Their quest is fraught with danger, adventure, and the clash between the encroaching settlers and the indigenous tribes. The opening of the book introduces us to the lead character, Will Clarke, who feels a mix of excitement and trepidation as he witnesses a tense standoff between soldiers and Sioux warriors. A conference led by Red Cloud serves as a critical moment, where he asserts the Sioux's determination to protect their lands from white encroachment. Clarke's admiration for the chief and his instincts for survival are immediately evident. Following a series of intense events, including an escape from the soldiers, Clarke and Boyd set forth into the wilderness, determined to continue their quest for a legendary gold mine, while evading the dangers posed by the Sioux. This opening sets up a narrative teeming with themes of bravery, exploration, and the complex relationships between the settlers and Native Americans during this era.
Henry M. Avery
Old Bear-Paw, the trapper king; or, The love of a Blackfoot queen
"Old Bear-Paw, the Trapper King; or, The Love of a Blackfoot Queen" by Maj. Max Martine is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the adventures of Lew Kelly, a scout and trapper, as he navigates the tumultuous landscapes of the Black Hills in search of gold and game, while also becoming embroiled in a conflict involving the Blackfoot Nation. Central to the plot are themes of love and loyalty, particularly between Lew and Snowdrop, the daughter of a Blackfoot chief. The opening portion of the book introduces the characters Lew and Jehiel, who are engaged in a scouting expedition for gold and game when they encounter a dire situation involving Snowdrop's abduction by the Sioux. As tensions rise with the unexpected appearance of an Indian chief, Gray Eagle, and the implications of his broken leg due to a previous skirmish, Kelly's promise to help rescue Snowdrop turns into a quest filled with both danger and opportunity. The narrative sets the tone for a story steeped in adventure, romance, and the harsh realities of frontier life, establishing stakes as the characters prepare for bigger confrontations ahead.
Recently surfaced classics