You have to go into this book realizing it is intended for younger readers. Once you do, you will be able to move through it quickly. You must then realize it is intended to be an introduction to women of the West. Once you do, you won't have to worry about getting too involved. Once you get to the end and you're told much of the material is based on glamorized accounts, you leave thinking "well then what was truthful?" This book is a good jumping off point for young pre-teen readers.
I read this for Wild West Women week in out Wild West reading unit. I thought it was strangely interesting for a school read. I wish we had a more overall look at things instead of only learning about a few people.