Genny S. reviewed on + 141 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
A big (622 page)book, but very good. I am a retired World History and American teacher and had forgotten what a wonderful year 1848 was in this old world. This is the story of 4 adventurers, one 40ish Jack of all trades who is "up" for almost anything; a young Mexican- American War deserter who is haunted by the violence he has seen; his sister, a part time actress and part-time prostitute, and an adventurous Englishman who must find his own fortune since the family inheritance in England went to his older brother. The author works the inventions, the revolutions in Europe, the entertainment and even the culture and the everyday slang skillfully into his story as our four heros make their way to the goldfields of California. Along the way they interact with the Mormons and the utopian societies so popular in that age. These groups were the "hippies" and counter-culture of their time and very interesting to read about.
Perhaps the book is a couple of chapters too long, but it is well worth reading and gives great insight into the enthusiasm of this year. I especially appreciated his insight into the lives of women in l848. If one was not married by 18 or 20 years old, little was left for the women except prostitution or 15 hour a day work in the factories. We've come a long way, baby.
Perhaps the book is a couple of chapters too long, but it is well worth reading and gives great insight into the enthusiasm of this year. I especially appreciated his insight into the lives of women in l848. If one was not married by 18 or 20 years old, little was left for the women except prostitution or 15 hour a day work in the factories. We've come a long way, baby.
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