Comment

The Last Stand

Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Sararush
Jun 23, 2010Sararush rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
The Last Stand is not only comprehensive well rounded study of The Battle of Little Big Horn, but author Nathaniel Philbrick also gives a near exhaustive study of the context surrounding the infamous battle. I was drawn to the book due to my enjoyment of Philbrick's other works, but the subject matter itself was so engaging that I was surprised at how it held my interest. Deftly told in his characteristically gripping style, the details of the story never become tedious or overwhelming, but instead the story is engrossing throughout. Readers are treated to eye witness accounts and analysis, photos, appendices, and maps. The only complaint is that the sheer volume of information leaves little hope of any quality of retention. Many soldiers' lives and battle roles are detailed, the ripple effects of the battles conclusions are thoroughly examined, and we get personal and details of the main player's lives and personalities, etc... However, in my opinion the author shrewdly balanced both sides of the battle without caving to opinion or sacrificing his narrative. Anyone interested in Custer, Sitting Bull or the Battle itself will not finish the book disappointed.