At first glance the deserves five stars for the sheer ability to create a comprehensive guide (it's thick!) to a large and beautiful area like the South Platt... unfortunately it must drop to three stars after actually using the guide. You must be able to think on your feet while using this guide. While it may contain large amounts of information, some of it is just wrong and even conflicts with itself. (i.e. Bucksnort Slab is on one side of the road on one map, and on the other side of the road on another) It also contains GPS locations for most rocks (another accomplishment) but at the same time it's in a format specific only to a specific GPS receiver. I'm an Electrical Engineer and it took me a lot of work to be able to convert them into something usable.

A couple of stars for the most comprehensive book out there, and probably the best choice at this time. But it definately isn't a bulletproof source of knowledge, and requires you to question the book.

Jory Sherman caprutes your imagination from the first page to the last. The story is absolutely great. I couldn't put the book down. It gives the reader a good look into how settlers and trappers had difficulties settling down and getting accustomed to the new surroundings and wildlife. We see how the lives of new settlers are affected by Indians. Jory Sherman presents his main characters as bold people, willing to explore what lays beyond their camps. He is an excellent author, causing a feeling of closeness to the characters in this book. We feel for Sheila and Davey as they attempt to overcome their problems. We can understand their pains and happiness. I would Suggest that anyone who likes old fashioned, historical settings to read this book. You will not be disappointed