The Journey of Crazy Horse by Joseph M. Marshall III – Reviewed by Guy Portman
This is the ‘life story’ of Crazy Horse, the legendary Lakota Sioux chief and an iconic figure in the history of The West. He is presented as having been a perspicacious individual, who throughout his short life was prone to experiencing vivid dreams and visions, which are outlined here in detail.
From a young age, the intensely introspective and taciturn Crazy Horse was aware of the increasing incursions of white settlers into Lakota land and the mounting rancour amongst his people at the erection of forts in their territory. As an adult, the harbinger chief became a symbol of defiance for his wily military campaign, particularly his instrumental role in orchestrating the defeat of the US Seventh Cavalry at The Battle of The Little Bighorn in 1876.
The Journey of Crazy Horse is a biographical narrative imbued with a historical fiction element. Whilst the fact it is penned by a Lakota gives the book credibility, this is not Crazy Horse’s autobiography, and it seems unlikely that this private man would have revealed the exact content of his dreams and visions.
The text’s fascinating cultural insights include details of bow making techniques, culinary preferences and the day-to-day existence of this proud people. Whilst there are instances of unnecessary interjections by its author, this is a well-researched and worthwhile read.
