Plot Summary

Shadows at Dawn

Karl Jacoby
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Shadows at Dawn

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2008

Book Brief

Karl Jacoby

Shadows at Dawn

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Arizona • 1870s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Shadows at Dawn by Karl Jacoby investigates the 1871 Camp Grant Massacre, where Anglos, Mexicans, and other Indigenous people killed over 100 Apache women and children, exploring the historical and social factors that culminated in this tragedy after 400 years. The book examines the complex dynamics, tensions, and perspectives of four groups in the Arizona-Mexico borderlands, revealing the nuances and often skewed portrayals of Native American history that persist. Jacoby’s work encourages a reexamination of Native American history, underscoring its complexity and the lasting impact of stereotypes and miscommunications. Sensitive topics include violence against women and children and ethnic tensions.

Informative

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

579 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Shadows at Dawn by Karl Jacoby is praised for its meticulous research and engaging narrative, shedding light on a lesser-known historical event. The intertwining perspectives provide depth, although some readers find the multiple viewpoints challenging to follow. The book's balance of academic rigor and storytelling is a notable strength.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Shadows at Dawn?

Readers who appreciate Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown or 1491 by Charles C. Mann will gravitate toward Shadows at Dawn by Karl Jacoby. Ideal for those interested in complex narratives of Native American history, this book appeals to fans of meticulously researched, multi-perspective historical accounts.

4.3

579 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Arizona • 1870s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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