Centennial

by James A. Michener
Centennial cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 8480
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • ISBN: 9780804151597
  • Publisher: Dial Press
  • Published: 2014-01-21
  • Reviews: 3

James A. Michener's Centennial is a monumental celebration of the American West, written to commemorate the Bicentennial in 1976. This enthralling saga brings to life the rich history of Colorado, the Centennial State, through the stories of its diverse inhabitants, from Native American tribes to European settlers and cowboys. The novel is a tapestry of human drama, set against the backdrop of the rugged and beautiful frontier, capturing the spirit of adventure, conflict, and resilience that defined the West. Centennial is not just a story of the land and its people, but also a testament to the enduring legacy of the American frontier. Michener's meticulous research and vivid storytelling transport readers to a time of exploration and settlement, where the clash of cultures and the pursuit of dreams shaped the destiny of a nation. The novel is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and mythology of the American West, offering a compelling blend of historical fiction and epic storytelling.

Reviews
Christine Calabrese · Christine Calabrese · 2019-04-05
engaging 4.50

The book is a captivating read that replaces screen time, creating a cozy and immersive experience. It offers a rich exploration of history and social dynamics.

Christine Calabrese found Centennial to be a compelling page-turner that effortlessly replaces screen time. The book's detailed narrative and engaging storytelling create a warm, cozy cocoon for the reader. She appreciates how Michener weaves together historical events and social dynamics, making the story both educational and entertaining. The depth of research and the vivid portrayal of characters and settings make it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    Centennial is a page turner, a replacement of screen time.

    The reader can expect to be encapsulated in a warm, cozy cocoon, while this social ...

    The book offers a rich exploration of history and social dynamics.

The Little Man Reviews · 2012-07-19
masterpiece 5.00

Despite its length, the book is a masterpiece that holds the reader's attention throughout. The detailed storytelling and historical depth make it a worthwhile read.

The reviewer from The Little Man Reviews acknowledges the book's considerable length but praises it as a masterpiece. The detailed storytelling and historical depth are highlights, making the book a rewarding experience. The reviewer appreciates how Michener's narrative keeps the reader engaged, despite the book's size. The richly woven tapestry of characters and events makes Centennial a standout work of historical fiction.

Quick quotes

    At 1086 pages, Centennial is probably the longest work of fiction I have yet read, and while the size was initially ...

    The detailed storytelling and historical depth make it a worthwhile read.

    The richly woven tapestry of characters and events makes Centennial a standout work of historical fiction.

The New York Times · 1974-09-08
insightful 4.00

The book is praised for its honest vision and liberal voice, offering a unique perspective on history. The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking.

The New York Times reviewer highlights the book's unblinkingly honest vision and unabashedly liberal voice. The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on history. The reviewer appreciates Michener's ability to weave together historical events and social dynamics, creating a compelling and insightful read. The book's depth and breadth make it a significant contribution to historical fiction.

Quick quotes

    Pervading it all are the unblinkingly honest vision and unabashedly liberal voice of Michener:

    I conceive of my job as placing the confused ...

    The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking.

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