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Books matching: donner party

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  1. Desperate Passage by Ethan Rarick recounts the tragic journey of the Donner Party in 1846 as they face extreme hardships while traveling to California. The book delves into the horrors of starvation, divisions within the group, failed attempts to cross the high peaks, and the desperate measures, including cannibalism, taken for survival. Rarick provides a well-rounded account, incorporating viewpoints from survivors, rescuers, and historical records to paint a vivid picture of the harrowing journey.

    The narrative in Desperate Passage is engaging and informative, offering insights into the characters of the travellers and dispelling myths surrounding their interactions with Native Americans. Rarick's writing style is straightforward and factual, focusing on the events and decisions that led to the Donner Party's entrapment in the Sierra Nevada mountains, making it a compelling non-fiction account of survival and tragedy.


  2. "The Indifferent Stars Above: The Harrowing Saga of a Donner Party Bride" by Daniel James Brown portrays the tragic journey of the Donner Party as they attempt to make their way to California. The narrative delves into the mistakes made, the suffering endured, and the remarkable physical and mental endurance displayed by the survivors amidst starvation, freezing temperatures, and death. Brown's writing style is described as engaging, well-researched, and informative, turning what could be dry history into a gripping page-turner that sheds light on the harrowing events of the past.

    The night before Sarah left Illinois for California, a full moon—as plump and promising as a pearl—hung over Steuben Township. Down in the bottomlands, the Illinois River slid silently past Franklin W...

  3. #3

    The Hunger by Alma Katsu
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    'The Hunger' by Alma Katsu is a historical novel that retells the journey of the Reed Donner Party in 1846, adding a supernatural element to the story. The book delves into the horrors faced by the pioneers, including disease, starvation, and cannibalism, while also incorporating a supernatural twist that heightens the tension and fear within the narrative. Through well-done characterization and vivid descriptions, the author brings to life the interactions and struggles of the moving community, making the story a captivating blend of historical fiction and horror.

    The plot of 'The Hunger' follows the ill-fated Donner Party as they face a series of mishaps, poor decisions, and supernatural threats while attempting to cross 1800's America from east to west. The author skillfully weaves together elements of historical events with supernatural horror, creating a gripping and eerie tale that keeps readers on edge. The book explores themes of despair, survival, and the malevolent nature of the surrounding environment, making it a haunting and immersive read that lingers in the mind long after the final page.

    He stood that morning in front of the big mirror strapped to the side of James Reed’s wagon. In every direction, the prairie unfurled like a blanket, occasionally rippled by wind: mile after uninterru...

  4. 'Ordeal by Hunger: The Story of the Donner Party' by George R. Stewart is a comprehensive and detailed account of the harrowing journey undertaken by the Donner Party in 1846. The book vividly portrays the struggles, privations, and hardships faced by the emigrants as they attempted to travel to California, including incidents of selfishness, heroism, and unimaginable acts of survival such as resorting to cannibalism. Stewart's writing style, although from a different era, effectively brings to life the personalities and character traits of the individuals involved, making the reader feel deeply immersed in the tragic story of the Donner Party.

    TAMSEN DONNER was gloomy and dispirited as the wagons pulled aside; Mr. Thornton noted it in his diary. The others were in high spirits at the prospect of the new route ahead, but she felt they were r...

  5. 'The Best Land Under Heaven: The Donner Party in the Age of Manifest Destiny' by Michael Wallis is a gripping account of the ill-fated journey of the Donner Party, highlighting their struggles, sacrifices, and ultimately, resorting to cannibalism to survive. The book delves into the decision-making process of the pioneers, the challenges they faced on the trail, and the tragic consequences of their choices. Wallis weaves a narrative that not only chronicles the events but also provides insights into the human psyche under extreme circumstances, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts and those interested in tales of survival against all odds.

    The writing style of Wallis is praised for its readability, attention to detail, and ability to engage the reader throughout the book. The author's thorough research is evident in the well-cited sources and the follow-up chapter that debunks myths surrounding the Donner Party's story, adding depth and authenticity to the historical account.

    IT WAS ALWAYS all about the land for brothers George and Jacob Donner, just as it was for the Donners before them. For them, land was money. The Donners were sons of the soil—born to till the earth. T...

  6. #6
    Old Bones
    Book 2 in the series:Nora Kelly

    Old Bones - Nora Kelly by Douglas Preston, Lincoln Child
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    In 'Old Bones' by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, the story revolves around FBI agent Corrie Swanson and archaeologist Nora Kelly as they get entangled in a mystery involving the historical tragedy of the Donner Party. The plot delves into grave robberies, murders, and a hidden treasure, all while seamlessly blending dark history, paranormal elements, archaeology, thriller moments, mystery, and suspense. The writing style is fluid, the characters are well-developed, and the transition between different viewpoints is done flawlessly, keeping the readers engaged throughout the novel.

    NIGHT HAD COME early to the City of Lights, and by 1:00 AM, with the moon obscured by thick clouds, Paris no longer lived up to its name. Even here, down by the river, it was dark and empty: too late ...

    (Also, see 99 recommendations for the series Nora Kelly )

  7. #7

    Donners of the Dead by Karina Halle
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    'Donners of the Dead' by Karina Halle follows the story of Eve, a half-Native tracker, who embarks on a dangerous journey with a group of strangers to uncover the mystery of a missing family member related to the Donner Party. Set in the 1850s, the novel intertwines horror and romance elements as Eve and the group face terrifying creatures in the mountains, reminiscent of the cannibalistic Donner Party. The plot unfolds with suspenseful twists, intense character dynamics, and a raw, gritty writing style that captivates readers and immerses them in a chilling and captivating narrative.

    As the group delves deeper into the treacherous mountains, facing threats and unknown dangers, Eve's character shines through as a fierce and relatable protagonist trying to survive amidst horrifying situations. The author, Karina Halle, expertly weaves a complex storyline with rich character development, creating a compelling blend of historical fiction, horror, and romance that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Halle brings to life a tale of survival, betrayal, and unexpected alliances in a setting filled with suspense and dark secrets.

    Sometimes I am six years old again and playing in the Truckee River, throwing up the cold mountain runoff with my tiny hands and shooting shy glances at him as he watches me, the smile spreading wide ...

  8. 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West' by Dee Brown is a heartbreaking and authentic account of the white expansion into the American West from the Native American point of view. Each chapter focuses on a different tribe or event, providing a comprehensive and intimate retelling of the fate of the American Indian. The writing style is described as poetic, insightful, and impeccably researched, with harrowing details provided by first-hand recollections, making it a great first read of American History that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

    Many reasons were given by both white men and Apaches for this sudden exodus from a reservation where everything apparently had been running smoothly. Some said it was because of the tiswin spree; others ...

  9. #9
    Vengeance Road
    Book 1 in the series:Vengeance Road

    Vengeance Road - Vengeance Road by Erin Bowman
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    In 'Vengeance Road' by Erin Bowman, readers are taken on a gritty and ruthless journey of revenge set in the American Old West. The story follows Kate, a strong and determined young woman seeking vengeance for her father's murder by a notorious gang. Disguised as a boy, Kate embarks on a dangerous mission with the help of rancher brothers and a mysterious Apache girl, facing betrayals, shootouts, and unexpected alliances in the harsh Arizona desert. The book blends elements of YA western, romance, and action, creating a captivating standalone novel that balances a fierce protagonist with a gripping storyline.

    I was down at the water, yanking a haul ’cus the pump had gone and stuck dry again, when I saw the smoke. It were billowing up over the sick-looking trees like a signal to God himself. I heard the yel...

  10. #10
    Lonesome Dove
    Book 1 in the series:Lonesome Dove

    Lonesome Dove - Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
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    'Lonesome Dove' by Larry McMurtry is a sprawling epic Western novel that follows the journey of two aging ex-Texas Rangers, Augustus McCrae and Woodrow Call, as they set out on a perilous cattle drive from Texas to Montana. The narrative is rich in historical detail, exploring themes of friendship, adventure, love, and survival in the rugged landscape of the American West. Through vivid characterizations and intricate plotlines, the author paints a compelling portrait of the challenges and triumphs faced by a diverse cast of characters on their arduous journey.

    WHEN AUGUSTUS CAME OUT on the porch the blue pigs were eating a rattlesnake—not a very big one. It had probably just been crawling around looking for shade when it ran into the pigs. They were having ...

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