I readily admit to an appalling ignorance of American history. My fascination has always been European history and I do most of my pleasure reading in stories that take place long in the past in England, France or Italy. I’ve gone on jags of reading on topics of American History – just ask me about the Civil War or the Mormons – but for the most part it just doesn’t interest me but once in a blue moon a book will pique my interest. For whatever reason this tale of the taking of iron ore out of Minnesota called to me. There is no understanding what I read….

That being written – this book was really fascinating. I believe because it was all so new to me and so very well written I found myself completely lost in the story. It’s really not at all as dry as it sounds. The characters are well developed and darn interesting. The conflict between the white immigrants and the Native Americans was very real and it caused issues all over the country as we well know from history.

It was a time for dreamers and for making money. It was a time when if you worked hard you really could achieve the American Dream. At least as it was manifesting in this time period. These men who brought their ideas to fruition were thought to be crazy but they believed. All of that is so well expressed in this book – all of the hope and all of the hard work and yes the failures that went along with it are there in a very compelling read. ( )