The Mountain Men

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6This fascinating collection of famous and not-so-famous early mountain men includes John Colter, Jim Bridger, James P. Beckwourth, and Kit Carson, among others. In many cases, these explorers were the first non-Native people to forge through the new frontiers, opening the way for others to follow. Most of the men were trappers and hunters who were as capable of wilderness survival as the Indians with whom they often traded. Fascinating, sometimes gruesome stories accompany the biographical sketches, making for history that is entertaining as well as informative. Full-color modern photographs and tinted archival reproductions contribute to the attractive presentation. The lack of a single map, however, is a real drawback in this otherwise appealing addition.Julie Halverstadt, Douglas Public Library District, Castle Rock, CO

Chris Sherman

Collins presents biographical sketches of an unusual but interesting fraternity, famous mountain men who explored the Old West: John Colter, Manuel Lisa, Jedediah Smith, Jim Bridger, James Beckwourth, Tom Fitzpatrick, and Christopher "Kit" Carson. The biographies are brief, but Collins still manages to capture the fearless (and sometimes ruthless) nature of the men and makes clear the importance of their work to the settlement of the West. The multicultural purview is a nice feature; the design is attractive, with extensive use of clear, well-captioned photographs; and Collins' text is easy to read. A useful addition to libraries needing information on westward expansion, explorers, or western history.