Book Review: "Undaunted Courage" by Stephen Ambrose

I just finished this excellent book about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It is fascinating, well-written, and based on a close reading of the journals from the expedition, as well as the other important books in the Lewis and Clark cannon. The author, Stephen Ambrose, makes the reader feel like he is part of the journey, with detailed accounts of the difficulties the expedition faced along the way. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about Lewis and Clark, the exploration of the Northwest, or life beyond the frontier in 1804-1806.

The reader is treated to tales of interactions with both friendly and hostile Indians, the Blackfeet, Nez Perce, Chinook, and Sioux. He also reads about the extremely harsh winters, and how the men had to survive by eating spoiled elk, horse, or even dog meat. The author chronicles the tough decisions that had to be made by captains Lewis and Clark, the political ramifications of failure, the glories of their success, and the tragic end to young captain Lewis's life.

"Undaunted Courage" is a great history book, as well as an adventure story. Upon reading the book it becomes clear just how wild and unique this region of the United States was before settlement by Americans in the 19th century.