Well-researched biography of two icons of the American West, Sitting Bull and Buffalo Bill Cody, and how their lives intertwined in a meaningful way. Both were celebrated and misunderstood, their names linked together by the buffalo, symbols of the American West.

The author has a definite viewpoint on the betrayal of the Native Americans, which she illustrates through an account of the lives of these two men (and one woman, Annie Oakley). Buffalo Bill is shown, in the 1870’s, as part of the problem, taking part in wiping out the buffalo and killing scores of American Indians. Around the same time, in 1876, Sitting Bull participated in the Little Big Horn battle where Custer met his end. Many thought Sitting Bull killed Custer (he didn’t). Thus, Buffalo Bill and Sitting Bull started out on opposing sides as enemies.

Once the Hunkpapa tribe of the Lakota were forced onto reservations, Sitting Bull became less of a threat, and Buffalo Bill experienced a change in perspective. In establishing his Wild West show, Cody attempts to right the wrongs of the past. These shows were intended to help Native Americans preserve the spirit of their culture while also conveying its essence to the rest of society. It also played a part in the early efforts to preserve the buffalo. The two men became close friends during the few months after Sitting Bull had joined the Wild West show. This dual story of Buffalo Bill and Sitting Bull portrays the significant changes to the American frontier during the lifetime of these two extraordinary men.

The author has done extensive research, drawing on many historical accounts to set straight many misconceptions. I found the book very interesting, particularly the description of the assassination of Sitting Bull and the subsequent massacre at Wounded Knee, along with the part played by the Ghost Dancers influenced by Wokova (an obscure Paiute Indian). I did not feel compelled to read it, but enjoyed it when I picked it up. Recommended to those interested in the history of Native Americans or the American West.

An advance copy of this book was provided by NetGalley in return for a candid review. ( )