NF Is this Custer book worth reading?

[Zella]

In a thrift shop and saw this. Has anyone read it? Is it worth buying?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Ole Miss]

Zella
Touched by Fire is a rather unusual book as it deals mostly with Custer's relationship with his wife Libbie and her life as protector and promoter of his legend. Barnett does a remarkable job of being unbiased in her presenting Custer warts and all and allowing the reader to decide which side of history he belongs to. I find it to be a very good read and highly recommend it for others.
Regards
David

 

[connecticut yankee]

I agree with @Ole Miss wholeheartedly. Barnett has presented a solidly written book, properly researched and enjoyable, easy to read. The meat of the book is the post-George years and how Libbie was true to her boy-General in everything she did or said and and how she began to quickly form the Custer legend. Also there is considerable detail as to how the Custer story (or myth) has developed from 1876 to the present. Custer is hero then goat continuously through the years. People are very adamant about Custer, not only because of his outstanding service record, but largely because of what they have come to believe were his faulty personality traits and because of the Little Big Horn disaster. Barnett's book will help you understand how and why the perception of Custer in America's psyche today is so controversial.

 

[Zella]

Thanks so much to both of you! I bought it before reading your posts--only $2!--but I'm really excited to read it now. I honestly find Libbie more interesting than George, so it sounds perfect for me!

 

[Ole Miss]

Great purchase! If Libbie intrigues you have found an excellent source. She was a "force of nature" caring nothing about those she libeled or slandered in the worship of her "Autie" in protecting her husband's place in history since it was meal ticket.
Regards
David

 

[jackt62]

Sounds like its worth a read.

 

[Zella]

Great purchase! If Libbie intrigues you have found an excellent source. She was a "force of nature" caring nothing about those she libeled or slandered in the worship of her "Autie" in protecting her husband's place in history since it was meal ticket.
Regards
David

Yes, she was ruthless in protecting his memory!

 

[WJC]

An excellent biography, particularly in discussing the Custers' personal relationship. If you are interested specifically in the Battle of Little Bighorn, I recommend Gregory F. Michno, Lakota Noon: The Indian Narrative of Custer's Defeat. (Missoula, MT: Mountain Press Publishing Company, 1997).

 

[Zella]

An excellent biography, particularly in discussing the Custers' personal relationship. If you are interested specifically in the Battle of Little Bighorn, I recommend Gregory F. Michno, Lakota Noon: The Indian Narrative of Custer's Defeat. (Missoula, MT: Mountain Press Publishing Company, 1997).

Thanks so much! I'll add it to my to-read list.