The Long Journey Home

Written by Don Coldsmith
Review by Melissa Galyon

Little Bull is a Lakota Sioux forced to assimilate into early twentieth century American culture. Though this novel is only a fictional account of Little Bull’s journey, it is a good starting point for readers interested in issues surrounding Native Americans.

Little Bull quickly becomes known as John Buffalo to his Caucasian teacher and his fellow Indian schoolmates. He learns to write and speak English, and he excels in track and football. Because of his talents, John travels across the country to attend Carlisle Indian College and play football. When John’s goal to coach football fails, he finds work with the 101 Ranch, training wild horses. And the adventure has only begun.

Don Coldsmith has created unforgettable characters in his latest novel. A review cannot accurately depict how realistic and enjoyable the journey home with John Buffalo really is, touching the heart of this reader in this well-written and thoroughly researched depiction. Although the pace does slow a bit here and there, this novel is a joy to read.