Empire of the Summer Moon

by S.C. Gwynne
Empire of the Summer Moon cover
Good Books rating 3.77
History
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  • ID: 6682
  • Added: 2025-11-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781416597155
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2010-05-25
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Empire of the Summer Moon is a New York Times bestseller and a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, offering a stunning historical account of the forty-year battle between Comanche Indians and white settlers. This book spans two astonishing stories: the rise and fall of the Comanches, the most powerful Indian tribe in American history, and the epic saga of Cynthia Ann Parker and her mixed-blood son Quanah, who became the last and greatest chief of the Comanches. The narrative delivers a sweeping history that encompasses Spanish colonialism, the Civil War, and the arrival of the railroads, providing a thrilling and meticulously researched account of how the United States came into being. Gwynne's exhilarating account is intellectually provocative and masterfully told, making it a must-read for anyone interested in American history. /n/nThe book is praised for its vivid storytelling and comprehensive research, offering a unique perspective on the Comanche's impact on the American West. It highlights the remarkable fighting ability of the Comanches and their influence on the development of the new American nation. The story of Cynthia Ann Parker and Quanah adds a personal and emotional dimension to the historical narrative, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts and general readers alike.

Reviews
Daniele Bolelli's Substack · Daniele Bolelli · 2023-01-01
harrowing 3.50

The book delves into the brutal history of the Comanches, highlighting their fierce resistance and the atrocities committed by both sides. It's a gripping account that doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the time.

Daniele Bolelli's review of 'Empire of the Summer Moon' is a deep dive into the brutal and often overlooked history of the Comanches and their battles with white settlers. They emphasize the book's unflinching portrayal of violence and the complex dynamics of power and resistance. Bolelli finds the narrative compelling, though the graphic descriptions of atrocities make for a harrowing read. They appreciate Gwynne's ability to bring history to life, even as it forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the past.

Quick quotes

    The book is a stark reminder of the brutal realities of the American West.

    Gwynne's writing makes the stories come alive, but it's not for the faint-hearted.

    The Comanches' resistance is both awe-inspiring and terrifying.

Stacy Rambles · Stacy Allbritton · 2017-07-03
compelling 3.80

The book offers a comprehensive panorama of the Comanches, showcasing their skills and ruthlessness. It's a vivid and unflinching look at a powerful tribe and their impact on history.

Stacy Allbritton's review emphasizes the book's comprehensive portrayal of the Comanches, highlighting their unmatched skills as horsemen and their brutal treatment of enemies. They find Gwynne's writing vivid and engaging, though the graphic descriptions of violence can be unsettling. Allbritton appreciates the book's depth and the way it brings history to life, making it a compelling read for those interested in the American West. They note that the book's unflinching look at the past can be both educational and disturbing.

Quick quotes

    Gwynne presents a complete panorama of the Comanches, from their skills to their brutality.

    The book is a vivid and unflinching look at a powerful tribe and their impact on history.

    The graphic descriptions of violence can be unsettling, but they are a necessary part of the story.

The Pump Don’t Work · Patrick Treardon · 2012-01-16
engaging 4.00

The book provides a detailed account of the Comanches' rise and fall, with vivid descriptions of their conflicts with settlers. It's a comprehensive look at a pivotal period in American history.

Patrick Treardon's review highlights the book's thorough exploration of the Comanches' history, from their dominance to their eventual decline. They praise Gwynne's ability to weave together historical events and personal stories, creating a rich tapestry of the past. Treardon finds the first part of the book particularly engaging, as it delves into the struggles between settlers and the Comanches. They appreciate the depth of research and the vivid storytelling, though they note that the book's focus on violence can be intense.

Quick quotes

    Gwynne's writing brings the past to life in a way that few historians can match.

    The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the American West.

    The conflicts between settlers and the Comanches are portrayed with striking detail.

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