Each opinioned synopsis is written right after I, Sheridan, read the book. Each synopsis is not overly edited and is not changed or added on to. Each one reflects the feelings and thoughts of the book fresh after reading it; each is written in a style close to that of the book. Some may give away a lot, others not so much.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee is a heart breaking book about the lives and deaths of American Indians during the 19th century. It has been entering hearts and homes and changing minds since it came out in the 1970s.
During this time is the Civil War and Reconstruction. Many people have only learned about these overwhelming topics. But during the same time another race of people were in dire need of help. Those people were being murdered and moved and no one could hear their voices. The American Indians consisted of so many tribes, many different languages and customs that are now lost. They were noble, beautiful people. They helped and trusted white men, and made promises to them. Time and time again they were cheated by the white men, and shot down under truce flags and American flags. Time and time again the women and children would have to flee in the dead of winter or be murdered and mutilated. The Indians kept trying to do what was right and be trusting but the whites continued to think of them as barbaric and incapable of emotion and broke promise after promise.
Even when a white man learned the ways of the Indians, and saw their beauty - they couldn't help for long. They could be overwhelmed and verbally attacked by others who only wanted to make their fortunes by cheating the Indians out of food, clothing, shelter and land. The Indians were strong, they were moved so many times, having to start all over in a completely different place, that they weakened and thousands died from diseases and starvation. They could do nothing against the millions of white men, whenever they tried to resist they were wiped out. White people didn't care to learn their ways, or hear their words, or know individuals instead of The Indian. Many different innocent people were blamed and punished for what others dd. White men were determined to destroy them all forever. They were all moved and killed and starved and learned many terrible things. One of which is that it was possible to die of a broken heart.
Everyone should read this book about a lost people. They should hear the story that has been covered up for far too long. Hear those voices of all the long gone Indians who were here before us all. And this book a wonderful way to hear those voices from the past.
Recommended to ages 15 and Up