Years ago, I visited Reno, Nevada, and explored Virginia City along with the rugged Sierra Nevada landscape around Lake Tahoe. It was an eye-opening adventure, but nothing like what the Donner party experienced as they headed to California in 1846. This is our The Best Land Under Heaven book review and banter.
Just like in all my book reviews, I promise not to reveal too many details. I especially promise not to reveal how this true story turns out for the Donner family, along with the fates of the many other families traveling with them.
The Best Land Under Heaven book review
What is the book about?
In the 1840’s, the Donner family, along with the Reed family, wanted to move to California. They believed that our young United States was destined to expand across North America. So, they packed up what they could, left Chicago, and headed to California in a wagon train.
Manifest Destiny
Fueled by their belief in Manifest Destiny, they dreamed of starting new lives on the fertile land in northern California. And, they looked forward to the region’s unlimited economic opportunities.
The book eloquently brings each character to life as they plan and execute their united dream of a new future. Along the way, as they meet hardships, the reader feels their frustrations and their fears.
Hardships and misfortunes
Unfortunately, their misfortunes escalate as winter approaches. And, that’s when each member of this wagon train has their character tested to its limits—something most readers will never experience in their lives.
Well-documented
Whenever I read a true story, I want to be sure that the facts I’m reading are correct. For example, I want to see legitimate reference sources.
In the case of this fascinating book, the author, Michael Wallis, included an extensive section of notes with meticulously listed observations, along with an exhaustive bibliography. As a matter of fact, I hope to use the bibliography section to do more research about our country’s early history.
To document a story that actually happened back in the 1840’s, the author displayed much attention-to-detail—he verified everything he could. I appreciate that disciplined research, because it added credibility. Undoubtedly, researching this book could not have been an easy job!
Excellent photos
Along with the excellent documentation, the author also provided photos of the Donner family and the other people involved. They all worked together for a common goal, and it’s hard to believe it all went so badly.
But fortunately, some survived to tell their horrific tale. I’m glad the publisher included the photos, because the faces in the black-and-white photos represented good people, and their good souls.
Background and motivations of the Donner family
The author helped set the background and motivations of the Donner family by revealing what social, economic, and other motivational forces were shaping our young country. I found this part of the story especially intriguing.
I learned about Abraham Lincoln’s early careers before he became a politician, and how he and his wife were interacting with one of the families on the Donner journey. During that time, he was also joined by Ulysses S. Grant in shaping our young country for the better.
This part of the book was fascinating.
This book motivated me to learn more history
The whole historical background was compelling. Because of this book, I have already bought a book about both Grant and Lincoln, along with a volume of research about Frederick Douglass.
In addition, I want to learn more about David Crockett, who was also mentioned throughout the Donner story.
Life was not easy back then
Today, life is comparatively easy for us in the United States. It wasn’t always like that.
Back in the 1840’s, life was difficult for most people. Of course, there were wealthy people who had an abundance, but most of our ancestors were not so lucky.
No guarantees of a good life, but be thankful anyway
On their journey out west, the Donner family quickly learned that there are no guarantees in life, even for the very wealthy. I think their journey taught them all to enjoy the present moment and be thankful for what they had.
Relentless hardships, could I have endured what the Donner’s did?
At first, their goal for a new life was inspiring. But after awhile, I was feeling fatigued with all the hardships this brave family had to endure.
Could I have been as brave as these people were? I don’t know if I have it in me. But maybe, just maybe, if we are put in that position, we can all drive ourselves onward, no matter the challenges.
That’s what I believe, anyway. The reason I have faith in myself is because I see people today, in our modern world, who have to endure relentless tragedies as they journey to a better life.
Be thankful for what you have
In fact, millions of people on our modern planet struggle to reach their own modest dreams of freedom and self-sufficiency. I guess I should remember that, and also remember to be thankful for the many blessings in my own life, even if they seem meager to me from my perspective!
So, I think that reading this true account of the Donner family’s fateful journey out West has taught me to be thankful and grateful. Today, I have a habit of silently listing some of the small things in my life than I’m thankful for. Being grateful really helps.
Their fear made them courageous
Just like all stories that involve human beings, the characters displayed many noble characteristics, They were courageous in the face of adversity, but also fearful of the unknown.
Ironically, I believe their fear of the unknown made them more courageous. Their fear pushed them to perform superhuman feats of survival.
Of course, human beings also become jealous, and they also display cowardice. Those negative traits were also in the mix of this historical story. The whole drama was so interesting to me, but also a little depressing at the same time.
TAKEAWAY:
The Best Land Under Heaven book review and book banter
To sum it all up, I loved reading The Best Land Under Heaven and learning the story about the Donner family. This was a story of hopes and dreams, along with loves and losses.
For me, the hardships this family endured seemed relentlessly harsh and unforgiving. That overall sense of doom was depressing. Still, there was hope for better tomorrows throughout their whole journey.
In addition, I loved reading about the history of our early country, and how much people had to sacrifice for their goals. The story about these courageous people made me feel humble and grateful.
That’s why I intend to learn more about our early history. And that is also why I believe you will love reading this book about the Donner family, and their journey to a better life.
Thank you for reading The Best Land Under Heaven book review! If you’ve already read this intriguing book, please share your thoughts in the comments section below!
Content and photos by Doug Martin and Our Book Banter
