Although the intent of George Catlin's book in the nineteenth century was to be for "youthful readers" (as he phrases it), this is a wonderful experience for readers of all ages and all times.
Catlin traveled extensively throughout the American west and South America for several years. His objective was to paint portraits of Native Americans on both continents before they vanished. For anyone who has thumbed through reprints of his art work, it is easy to see the man had talent, a great deal of it.
His writings and observations of so many different Indian tribes are sensitive, compassionate and supportive of Indian ways and customs. His adventures were many. Whether traveling up and down the Missouri, alone across the American prairie, or with a few companions through the Amazon jungles, Catlin was an eyewitness to a world now gone.