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BUCKSKIN BRIGADES.
Book by Hubbard, L. Ron
316 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1955
52 people are currently reading
4088 people want to read
About the author
L. Ron Hubbard
2,004 books659 followersL. Ron Hubbard is universally acclaimed as the single most influential author and humanitarian of this modern age. His definitive works on the mind and spirit—comprising over 350 million copies in circulation and more than 40 international bestsellers—have resulted in a legacy benefiting millions and a movement spanning all cultures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 29, 2024
Surprisingly, this was a banger. Great plot twists and anti colonial messaging for a 1930s novel!👏Missed opportunity to name his pistol the Cult 45 😹
December 6, 2025
“King Arthur was too good himself to see the vice in the knights about him. The Indian—at the very first—thought whites who came to them with mealy-mouthed promises were as honorable as themselves. It took some little time and a great deal of activity on the part of the white vanguard to change that high opinion.”
Buckskin Brigades, L. Ron Hubbard
What if your home wasn’t the place you were born but the place that raised you, taught you who you are… and asked you to fight for it?
Set around 1806 during the early days of westward expansion in America, Buckskin Brigades follows a white man named Michael Kirk, known among the Blackfeet as “Yellow Hair”, who was orphaned and raised by the tribe, learning their ways and becoming one of them. When fur-traders and settlers begin to encroach on Blackfeet lands, bringing greed, violence, and betrayal. Torn between two worlds, Yellow Hair must choose where his loyalty lies and fight to protect the home that raised him.
This story really brings the nature versus nurture debate to life, a boy born white but raised by the Blackfeet tribe becomes more loyal to them than to the world he came from. It shows how belonging is shaped not by blood, but by the people who love and teach you.
The pacing is fast, no long dragging chapters, just action, conflict, and a tug-of-war between identity and survival. The language is a bit old-fashioned here and there, which makes sense for a 1930s novel, but it doesn’t push you out of the story. And if some native terms throw you off, there’s a handy glossary at the back that makes everything smooth.
Love, a theme I find Hubbard uses to softness stories that carry heaviness, is very much present along with greed, power, loyalty, family, colonialism, identity and heritage. So well woven together are these themes to create an intense, gripping tale. Every page pulses with fire, fear, love and war.
If you’re into stories where the underdog becomes the defender, this one hits.
Buckskin Brigades, L. Ron Hubbard
What if your home wasn’t the place you were born but the place that raised you, taught you who you are… and asked you to fight for it?
Set around 1806 during the early days of westward expansion in America, Buckskin Brigades follows a white man named Michael Kirk, known among the Blackfeet as “Yellow Hair”, who was orphaned and raised by the tribe, learning their ways and becoming one of them. When fur-traders and settlers begin to encroach on Blackfeet lands, bringing greed, violence, and betrayal. Torn between two worlds, Yellow Hair must choose where his loyalty lies and fight to protect the home that raised him.
This story really brings the nature versus nurture debate to life, a boy born white but raised by the Blackfeet tribe becomes more loyal to them than to the world he came from. It shows how belonging is shaped not by blood, but by the people who love and teach you.
The pacing is fast, no long dragging chapters, just action, conflict, and a tug-of-war between identity and survival. The language is a bit old-fashioned here and there, which makes sense for a 1930s novel, but it doesn’t push you out of the story. And if some native terms throw you off, there’s a handy glossary at the back that makes everything smooth.
Love, a theme I find Hubbard uses to softness stories that carry heaviness, is very much present along with greed, power, loyalty, family, colonialism, identity and heritage. So well woven together are these themes to create an intense, gripping tale. Every page pulses with fire, fear, love and war.
If you’re into stories where the underdog becomes the defender, this one hits.
Read
December 1, 20254.5
This was a quick read filled with action and adventure. The author did a good job of setting the scene and introducing the characters. While this was a short story, the length ended up being perfect for me. By the time I finished I felt nothing was left out and while the characters weren't fully flushed I was okay with it. The writing was simple yet well done. Overall, I would recommend this one if you enjoy westerns or historical fiction.
This was a quick read filled with action and adventure. The author did a good job of setting the scene and introducing the characters. While this was a short story, the length ended up being perfect for me. By the time I finished I felt nothing was left out and while the characters weren't fully flushed I was okay with it. The writing was simple yet well done. Overall, I would recommend this one if you enjoy westerns or historical fiction.
April 28, 2021
This was the abridged audio CD and though the story is great, it felt a bit too short. This was a story where people gave up trying to talk to me as I was in a different space and time.
I will definitely read this book again.
And now, April 2021, I listened to it again and it seems to get better every time I read or listen to it. And yes, people did not try to talk to me, or at least, I did not notice.
I will definitely read this book again.
And now, April 2021, I listened to it again and it seems to get better every time I read or listen to it. And yes, people did not try to talk to me, or at least, I did not notice.
December 19, 2025
Buckskin Brigades by L. Ron Hubbard is an engrossing historical fiction which keeps the readers hooked till the end. I loved the portrayal of Native American History. The story is set around 1806, and centers around a white man named Michael Kirk, who is raised by the Blackfeet tribe. He is called as "Yellow Hair" by them. The fur traders, driven by greed, began to intrude into the grounds of the Blackfeet tribe. Now, "Yellow Hair" should act as a bridge between them to protect the people who raised him. "Yellow Hair's" loyalty for Blackfeet tribe is respectable.
The story is intriguing with a fast-paced plot. The author's flawless narrative makes everything vivid. The storytelling is excellent and enjoyable. Such a gripping read which takes us to the vintage world. The portrayal of Blackfoot Indians is notable and genuine. Such a well-researched and well-written read. The cultures of the tribes were well explained. Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
The story is intriguing with a fast-paced plot. The author's flawless narrative makes everything vivid. The storytelling is excellent and enjoyable. Such a gripping read which takes us to the vintage world. The portrayal of Blackfoot Indians is notable and genuine. Such a well-researched and well-written read. The cultures of the tribes were well explained. Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
December 8, 2025
When I accepted this book for review, I was warned upfront about the “problematic author” discourse and assured there’d be no hard feelings if I said no. But here’s the thing: I’m anti–book banning to my core. A story is a story, and reading someone’s work does not mean you align with their beliefs. That mindset has always felt incredibly short-sighted to me, so yes, I took the book. And honestly? I’m glad I did.
This turned out to be a striking piece of historical fiction, made even more compelling by the fact that it’s based on actual Lewis & Clark expedition notes. Hubbard manages to take fragments of historical record and spin them into a narrative that’s gripping, harrowing, hopeful, and deeply human. Knowing the true history of how Native Americans were treated gives the story an undercurrent of heartbreak, and Hubbard smartly highlights small, seemingly harmless moments that would later snowball into disaster. Those quiet foreshadowings hit hard.
What impressed me most is how seamlessly he blends facts with the story. The world feels lived-in, researched, and vivid, almost like you're reading a firsthand account instead of a novel. And that ending? It was refreshing to see justice actually prevail, even if only on the page.
Yellow Hair, the protagonist, absolutely stole the show for me. A white man raised by a Native tribe, he’s caught between two worlds that never fully accept him, yet his loyalty never wavers. His courage, honor, and determination shape the entire narrative. You root for him immediately, and you hate the villains just as fiercely. Every character is crafted with such clarity that they feel real enough to step off the page.
Politics and author controversies aside, Buckskin Brigades was an unexpectedly fantastic read, and I’m grateful I gave it a chance. I had a blast with this one and never would’ve found it otherwise.
This turned out to be a striking piece of historical fiction, made even more compelling by the fact that it’s based on actual Lewis & Clark expedition notes. Hubbard manages to take fragments of historical record and spin them into a narrative that’s gripping, harrowing, hopeful, and deeply human. Knowing the true history of how Native Americans were treated gives the story an undercurrent of heartbreak, and Hubbard smartly highlights small, seemingly harmless moments that would later snowball into disaster. Those quiet foreshadowings hit hard.
What impressed me most is how seamlessly he blends facts with the story. The world feels lived-in, researched, and vivid, almost like you're reading a firsthand account instead of a novel. And that ending? It was refreshing to see justice actually prevail, even if only on the page.
Yellow Hair, the protagonist, absolutely stole the show for me. A white man raised by a Native tribe, he’s caught between two worlds that never fully accept him, yet his loyalty never wavers. His courage, honor, and determination shape the entire narrative. You root for him immediately, and you hate the villains just as fiercely. Every character is crafted with such clarity that they feel real enough to step off the page.
Politics and author controversies aside, Buckskin Brigades was an unexpectedly fantastic read, and I’m grateful I gave it a chance. I had a blast with this one and never would’ve found it otherwise.
December 9, 2025
Buckskin Brigades is one of those novels that immediately transports you to another time and place. From the first chapter, author paints the American frontier with such vivid detail that it’s easy to feel the cold wind off the plains, hear the sounds of camp life, and sense the tension of a world where cultures meet, clash, and learn from one another.
What really sets this book apart is its portrayal of the Blackfeet people. Rather than relying on the clichés so common in older Western fiction, the story gives them agency, depth, and dignity. Their traditions, values, and perspectives are woven into the narrative in a way that feels thoughtful and immersive. It’s clear the author wanted to present a more balanced and human picture than what readers might expect from the genre.
The protagonist’s journey is both compelling and emotionally resonant. His challenges, both physical and moral, drive the story forward while also exploring themes of identity, belonging, and loyalty.
The book finds a strong balance between introspective moments and high-stakes adventure. There are stretches of quiet beauty and cultural detail, followed by bursts of tension and danger that kept me fully engaged. This book is more than just a frontier adventure, it’s a story about understanding across cultures, about courage, and about finding one’s place in a changing world. It’s a novel that rewards readers who enjoy historical fiction with heart and authenticity.
If you’re a fan of immersive settings, complex characters, and stories that blend action with genuine emotional depth, this book is absolutely for you!
What really sets this book apart is its portrayal of the Blackfeet people. Rather than relying on the clichés so common in older Western fiction, the story gives them agency, depth, and dignity. Their traditions, values, and perspectives are woven into the narrative in a way that feels thoughtful and immersive. It’s clear the author wanted to present a more balanced and human picture than what readers might expect from the genre.
The protagonist’s journey is both compelling and emotionally resonant. His challenges, both physical and moral, drive the story forward while also exploring themes of identity, belonging, and loyalty.
The book finds a strong balance between introspective moments and high-stakes adventure. There are stretches of quiet beauty and cultural detail, followed by bursts of tension and danger that kept me fully engaged. This book is more than just a frontier adventure, it’s a story about understanding across cultures, about courage, and about finding one’s place in a changing world. It’s a novel that rewards readers who enjoy historical fiction with heart and authenticity.
If you’re a fan of immersive settings, complex characters, and stories that blend action with genuine emotional depth, this book is absolutely for you!
December 15, 2025
Book Review!📚
📖: Buckskin Brigades
✍️: L.Ron Hubbard
Genre: Historical Fiction
QOTD: What have you read in December so far?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This felt like stepping straight into the rugged Northwest frontier of the early 1800s cold rivers, campfires, tense negotiations and the constant shadow of conflict.
The story follows Michael Kirk (Yellow Hair) a white man raised by the Blackfeet caught between two worlds as American and British fur traders fight for dominance. What made this book stand out for me was its perspective. Instead of glorifying expansion, it centers Indigenous culture, loyalty and honor, while exposing the greed and politics driving colonial ambition.
The pacing is fast, the stakes are high and the atmosphere is incredibly vivid. Battle scenes feel cinematic but it’s the quieter moments identity, belonging and moral conflict that really linger. Despite its old school Western style the themes still feel relevant and surprisingly thoughtful.
If you enjoy historical fiction, frontier adventures and stories about culture clash and survival, this is a gripping, immersive read that delivers action and heart.
📖: Buckskin Brigades
✍️: L.Ron Hubbard
Genre: Historical Fiction
QOTD: What have you read in December so far?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This felt like stepping straight into the rugged Northwest frontier of the early 1800s cold rivers, campfires, tense negotiations and the constant shadow of conflict.
The story follows Michael Kirk (Yellow Hair) a white man raised by the Blackfeet caught between two worlds as American and British fur traders fight for dominance. What made this book stand out for me was its perspective. Instead of glorifying expansion, it centers Indigenous culture, loyalty and honor, while exposing the greed and politics driving colonial ambition.
The pacing is fast, the stakes are high and the atmosphere is incredibly vivid. Battle scenes feel cinematic but it’s the quieter moments identity, belonging and moral conflict that really linger. Despite its old school Western style the themes still feel relevant and surprisingly thoughtful.
If you enjoy historical fiction, frontier adventures and stories about culture clash and survival, this is a gripping, immersive read that delivers action and heart.
December 1, 2025
The book is a remarkable portrayal of the Blackfoot Indians and their encounter with the white man. The author's firsthand experience with the tribe makes the story vivid and authentic. It's a tribute to the North American Indians and a must-read for understanding a pivotal moment in history.
The story follows Yellow Hair, a white boy raised by the Blackfeet nation, as he navigates identity, loyalty, and culture. The book explores the heavy tension between two worlds and the betrayal of trust by the white man. It's a powerful exploration of belonging, honor, and the devastating impact of greed and expansion.
The book is a breath of fresh air, offering a nuanced portrayal of the Blackfeet people and their values. It's historical fiction that feels grounded and cinematic, with vivid landscapes and emotions. The writing is engaging, making it easy to get lost in the story.
This is a snapshot of a dark period in American history, shedding light on the brutal treatment of Native Americans. It's a well-researched and well-written book that will leave you thinking long after you finish reading. With its fast-paced narrative and well-drawn characters, it's an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
It's a powerful exploration of identity, culture, and the human condition. The author's writing is engaging and the story is both heartbreaking and uplifting. If you enjoy historical fiction, you'll love this book.
The story follows Yellow Hair, a white boy raised by the Blackfeet nation, as he navigates identity, loyalty, and culture. The book explores the heavy tension between two worlds and the betrayal of trust by the white man. It's a powerful exploration of belonging, honor, and the devastating impact of greed and expansion.
The book is a breath of fresh air, offering a nuanced portrayal of the Blackfeet people and their values. It's historical fiction that feels grounded and cinematic, with vivid landscapes and emotions. The writing is engaging, making it easy to get lost in the story.
This is a snapshot of a dark period in American history, shedding light on the brutal treatment of Native Americans. It's a well-researched and well-written book that will leave you thinking long after you finish reading. With its fast-paced narrative and well-drawn characters, it's an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
It's a powerful exploration of identity, culture, and the human condition. The author's writing is engaging and the story is both heartbreaking and uplifting. If you enjoy historical fiction, you'll love this book.
January 4, 2026
This is an action-packed packed story about the Blackfeet tribe and the fur traders that invaded their territory. Yellow Hair is a white man that has been raised by the Blackfeet and a series of events that chsnge the trajectory of his life.
There is also a secondary story of romance between Yellow Hair and Bright Star, that proves love endures all.
This story is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, especially about Lewis and Clark and the injustice the natives endured for years. The book ends with them victorious against the traders.
There is also a secondary story of romance between Yellow Hair and Bright Star, that proves love endures all.
This story is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, especially about Lewis and Clark and the injustice the natives endured for years. The book ends with them victorious against the traders.
December 4, 2025
here’s my review of buckskin brigades 🏹🌾
i just finished it — and honestly, this might be my favorite book from the author so far. it has that sweeping, old-world adventure feel that pulls you straight into 1806, when the fur trade was wild, dangerous, and full of hidden agendas. think frontier vibes, but with more heart and a tighter, more intimate story.
what really hooked me was the perspective: a young white man raised by the blackfeet, caught between two worlds, trying to protect the very people who became his family. the mix of history, culture, and quiet romance gave the book a warmth that balanced the harshness of frontier life.
the storytelling felt so vivid — campfires, river crossings, tense meetings with ruthless traders — all wrapped in that slow-building tension of a spy trying to outsmart men who would kill for profit. and the plot? surprisingly emotional. there were scenes that made me stop and sit with the weight of what was happening.
short verdict: if you want a historical adventure with rich atmosphere, sharp conflict, and a touch of romance woven into every chapter, buckskin brigades delivers. it’s the kind of story that makes the past feel alive, raw, and achingly human.
the ebook is also on special this december for $1.99 — you can grab it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008Y8CQWU 🤎✨
thank you meliva for the opportunity to read and review the book! 🫶📖
i just finished it — and honestly, this might be my favorite book from the author so far. it has that sweeping, old-world adventure feel that pulls you straight into 1806, when the fur trade was wild, dangerous, and full of hidden agendas. think frontier vibes, but with more heart and a tighter, more intimate story.
what really hooked me was the perspective: a young white man raised by the blackfeet, caught between two worlds, trying to protect the very people who became his family. the mix of history, culture, and quiet romance gave the book a warmth that balanced the harshness of frontier life.
the storytelling felt so vivid — campfires, river crossings, tense meetings with ruthless traders — all wrapped in that slow-building tension of a spy trying to outsmart men who would kill for profit. and the plot? surprisingly emotional. there were scenes that made me stop and sit with the weight of what was happening.
short verdict: if you want a historical adventure with rich atmosphere, sharp conflict, and a touch of romance woven into every chapter, buckskin brigades delivers. it’s the kind of story that makes the past feel alive, raw, and achingly human.
the ebook is also on special this december for $1.99 — you can grab it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008Y8CQWU 🤎✨
thank you meliva for the opportunity to read and review the book! 🫶📖
December 9, 2025
I just finished Buckskin Brigades and I think this might be my favourite L. Ron Hubbard book so far.
It has that sweeping, old-world adventure feel that drops you straight into 1806, when the fur trade was ruthless, political, and full of hidden agendas.
What really pulled me in was the perspective and the way it was narrated: a young white man raised by the Blackfeet, caught between cultures and trying to protect the people who became his family.
The atmosphere is vivid, campfires, river crossings, tense encounters and the slow build of tension which kept me hooked.
If you’re in the mood for a historical adventure with rich setting, sharp conflict, and a very human core, Buckskin Brigades delivers.
#GalaxyPress #LRonHubbard #FurTradeEra #bookrec #bookreview #bookstagram #bookworm #bookish #audible #audiobook
It has that sweeping, old-world adventure feel that drops you straight into 1806, when the fur trade was ruthless, political, and full of hidden agendas.
What really pulled me in was the perspective and the way it was narrated: a young white man raised by the Blackfeet, caught between cultures and trying to protect the people who became his family.
The atmosphere is vivid, campfires, river crossings, tense encounters and the slow build of tension which kept me hooked.
If you’re in the mood for a historical adventure with rich setting, sharp conflict, and a very human core, Buckskin Brigades delivers.
#GalaxyPress #LRonHubbard #FurTradeEra #bookrec #bookreview #bookstagram #bookworm #bookish #audible #audiobook
January 16, 2013
Buckskin Brigades
Pulp Western where the white fur traders are the bad guys.
The book starts out with a random diary entry from the Lewis & Clark Expedition, which expedition was sent by the President to explore the newly purchased Louisiana territories. The author’s implied question of course is how can you buy something that is already owned by the native peoples of the continent?
Through a pulp and sometimes sarcastic style, we have caricatures of men who are greedy, sly, deceptive and all around nasty people to be around. Their only concern is how to use our hero, Yellow Hair, as a chip in the game of furs and trading as the Nor’westers struggle against the Hudson Bay Company.
I would have liked to have seen more information on Yellow Hair’s origins. His father, a late survivor of the politicos back East, made friends with and consulted with the Pikuni tribes and upon his death, his son, Michael, was raised by the Pikunis as Yellow Hair.
Yellow Hair is an impetuous youth, who desires a woman (a sits-beside-me woman) and has some struggles with the council of tribes. His eventual foray into the world of white fur traders makes for some compelling literature.
Spoiler: My favorite scenes include when Bright Star comes across a skeleton with yellow hair and thinks this is proof that Yellow Hair is dead. She does love him, though doesn’t show it, and is quite despondent. Will she kill herself? Will she marry the man she’s been chosen to marry?
End Spoiler.
The battle scenes are the most compelling. Trapped, surrounded by cannon and men with guns, Yellow Hair calls his enemies cowards, come and get me you Redcoats! The typical pulp hero.
Bottom Line: An interesting look at the beginning of the Western expanse in the Canadian/American north, a struggle for survival and some pretty funny cultural clashes. We have the greedy frontiersman, the dandy, the toady, and enough caricature and fighting to satisfy any Western reader. Recommended.
Pulp Western where the white fur traders are the bad guys.
The book starts out with a random diary entry from the Lewis & Clark Expedition, which expedition was sent by the President to explore the newly purchased Louisiana territories. The author’s implied question of course is how can you buy something that is already owned by the native peoples of the continent?
Through a pulp and sometimes sarcastic style, we have caricatures of men who are greedy, sly, deceptive and all around nasty people to be around. Their only concern is how to use our hero, Yellow Hair, as a chip in the game of furs and trading as the Nor’westers struggle against the Hudson Bay Company.
I would have liked to have seen more information on Yellow Hair’s origins. His father, a late survivor of the politicos back East, made friends with and consulted with the Pikuni tribes and upon his death, his son, Michael, was raised by the Pikunis as Yellow Hair.
Yellow Hair is an impetuous youth, who desires a woman (a sits-beside-me woman) and has some struggles with the council of tribes. His eventual foray into the world of white fur traders makes for some compelling literature.
Spoiler: My favorite scenes include when Bright Star comes across a skeleton with yellow hair and thinks this is proof that Yellow Hair is dead. She does love him, though doesn’t show it, and is quite despondent. Will she kill herself? Will she marry the man she’s been chosen to marry?
End Spoiler.
The battle scenes are the most compelling. Trapped, surrounded by cannon and men with guns, Yellow Hair calls his enemies cowards, come and get me you Redcoats! The typical pulp hero.
Bottom Line: An interesting look at the beginning of the Western expanse in the Canadian/American north, a struggle for survival and some pretty funny cultural clashes. We have the greedy frontiersman, the dandy, the toady, and enough caricature and fighting to satisfy any Western reader. Recommended.
November 27, 2025
Buckskin Brigades by L. Ron Hubbard is a historical fiction of western adventure with tropes like identity, loyalty, culture and survival. It’s a story of a boy who’s called Yellow Hair, a white boy raised by the Blackfeet tribe. He believes that he belongs to them and they are his world. Emotionally he’s attached to them. Then white traders come and they try to play greedy and dirty. Now he is caught in a situation if Blackfeet are his real people or those white whom he will choose??
What I loved the most about this book is the Blackfeet’s culture and lifestyle was portrayed so perfectly!!! Their nature, sense of honor and the loyalty they have was sooo beautifully written and the love of Yellow Hair for his people, his loyalty and the emotional connection with them was sooo admirable.
My favourite is Yellow Hair, as I said before his bravery and sense of justice and the way he stands up for his tribe and gives his best. His character is written so well, he follows his heart and does the right things.
The plot was very engaging and strong. The identity crisis and the conflict was noticeable and I think historically the most important and talked point. And loved how the cultures of tribes were explained. I think it really gives a best view of how people had such conflicts and maybe still having.
It’s the second book of L. Hubbard and I’m sure now I love his writing style, it literally makes your imagination sooo beautiful!!
Overall I loved the book!! And I recommend it to all the people who love historical fiction. You will love it…
What I loved the most about this book is the Blackfeet’s culture and lifestyle was portrayed so perfectly!!! Their nature, sense of honor and the loyalty they have was sooo beautifully written and the love of Yellow Hair for his people, his loyalty and the emotional connection with them was sooo admirable.
My favourite is Yellow Hair, as I said before his bravery and sense of justice and the way he stands up for his tribe and gives his best. His character is written so well, he follows his heart and does the right things.
The plot was very engaging and strong. The identity crisis and the conflict was noticeable and I think historically the most important and talked point. And loved how the cultures of tribes were explained. I think it really gives a best view of how people had such conflicts and maybe still having.
It’s the second book of L. Hubbard and I’m sure now I love his writing style, it literally makes your imagination sooo beautiful!!
Overall I loved the book!! And I recommend it to all the people who love historical fiction. You will love it…
December 2, 2025
Audacious move from the author to take on time-traveling and paradoxes as the main core to refresh the "locked-room" trope. The investigators are fun to read because they are out of their depth. This is no cheating spouse or missing cat case, but solving this one could bring benefits. I loved Abigail. She is a fun one. The author sprinkles some humor and pop culture references. The narrative showcases well the chaos of time traveling, may be jarring for some readers, but if you like time traveling, this one will be a refreshing read, out of the box kind of story.
December 7, 2025
A warrior of the Blackfeet (born of a white parents) goes to the local Fort to learn the English language and the ways of the white man. Yellow Hair believes this is the best way to save his tribe. A great story of the different unsavory characters he meets and interacts with. And what he has to do to overcome their intention to kill him. It’s very interesting to see the tale told through the eyes of a Native American character and the insights into the people and customs of the people involved in the fur trade. A great story!
May 13, 2021
I enjoyed this book a lot. Ever since I read The Way West by Guthrie by taste was whetted for fur trading days stories.
This story is of a white man who was raised with the Blackfeet so it very much puts one in the position of their culture and as stated in L Ron Hubbard: A Profile: Writer:
Council Members of the Blackfeet Nation were to later declare, "Never have our morals and ethics been presented with such clarity.” (See link for full article http://www.lronhubbard.org/ron-series...)
While I was carried through this adventure by well paced writing, I felt I learned more of genuine native culture and the lay of the land as far as fur trading goes (which is not flattering) in contrast to the Blackfeet"s much more civilized ways.
Buckskin Brigades is a 'what if' story which is centered around an entry in Lewis and Clark's actual Diaries and the brief narrative establish this stories setting for context.
Great read.
This story is of a white man who was raised with the Blackfeet so it very much puts one in the position of their culture and as stated in L Ron Hubbard: A Profile: Writer:
Council Members of the Blackfeet Nation were to later declare, "Never have our morals and ethics been presented with such clarity.” (See link for full article http://www.lronhubbard.org/ron-series...)
While I was carried through this adventure by well paced writing, I felt I learned more of genuine native culture and the lay of the land as far as fur trading goes (which is not flattering) in contrast to the Blackfeet"s much more civilized ways.
Buckskin Brigades is a 'what if' story which is centered around an entry in Lewis and Clark's actual Diaries and the brief narrative establish this stories setting for context.
Great read.
May 15, 2024
Amazing true story Every American should know
I learned about what happened with the Native American Indians and how they were oppressed by the invaders from Europe who thought they were a superior race, but were far from it and actually ungodly. It's the Blackfoot people who were more spiritual and wise, but unfortunately trusted too much the white people of that time who wanted only to enrich themselves by taking their land by treachery.
L. Ron Hubbard is my favourite author of many genre.
The story telling is captivating , you can't put the book down. The main character shows true heroism and courage and goes through impossible fates and all throughout, your heart is racing, and the end makes you laugh and cry at the same time. Its so beautiful. I want to reread the whole story again!
I learned about what happened with the Native American Indians and how they were oppressed by the invaders from Europe who thought they were a superior race, but were far from it and actually ungodly. It's the Blackfoot people who were more spiritual and wise, but unfortunately trusted too much the white people of that time who wanted only to enrich themselves by taking their land by treachery.
L. Ron Hubbard is my favourite author of many genre.
The story telling is captivating , you can't put the book down. The main character shows true heroism and courage and goes through impossible fates and all throughout, your heart is racing, and the end makes you laugh and cry at the same time. Its so beautiful. I want to reread the whole story again!
October 1, 2022
Okay, so I didn't have a lot of optimism going in and reading this book. I thought I was going to hate it, and it was going to be overrated. Well I was quite wrong. The story is exciting, interesting, and honestly funny. It was funny in the commentary on the Europeans. Some of the weird habits and alcohol.
It's from the perspective of the main character being a white Indian. He goes on a crazy adventure and was quite likable. With fiery sarcasm and quick wit. A satisfying ending and a simple read. It made for a interesting read. I was impressed and for those of you who like western novels. I would give it a read.
No I'm not a Scientologist.
It's from the perspective of the main character being a white Indian. He goes on a crazy adventure and was quite likable. With fiery sarcasm and quick wit. A satisfying ending and a simple read. It made for a interesting read. I was impressed and for those of you who like western novels. I would give it a read.
No I'm not a Scientologist.
November 11, 2025
An interesting true portrait of Native American history. It mainly describes the Blackfoot tribe but other Native American tribes are also featured, showing the different characteristics and mannerisms each of those tribes was known for. The storyline moves along rapidly similar to a good western yarn but with the twist of non-fiction. The hero of the story, "Yellow Hair", a white man raised in the Blackfoot tribe, maintains his honor throughout. In the end Yellow Hair enables the tribe to win, and returns home to get the woman he loves.
Anyone who enjoys historical fiction, or stories about early American times would enjoy this book. I would recommend it.
Anyone who enjoys historical fiction, or stories about early American times would enjoy this book. I would recommend it.
July 12, 2007
Not bad. It's a Western turned on its head. Instead of an Indian cast as the evil figure, Hubbard puts Lewis & Clark in the antagonist's shoes. The flip of history makes the book interesting, and while the plot keeps attention, it's a lot of traveling.
December 20, 2025
Buckskin Brigades by L. Ron Hubbard is a historical fiction based on real Lewis and Clark expedition notes from our actual American history. That was what made me want to read this one folks. I am always interested in history and especially earlier American history. Our MC is named 'Yellowhair' by his Native American tribe that he lives with since he is Caucasian with blonde or golden hair. Yellowhair had a white dad who had gone to the Blackfoot tribe, where he was raised by the tribe to be one of them.
One of the explorers meets the tribe and wants the Blackfoot tribe to be part of the nation. The tribe was lied to before by a previous white person, so they are suspicious and not trusting of the white people in general. Our MC Yellowhair rushes into action when the tribe is attacked and his intended woman's father is killed, he does this a lot in the book as Impulsivity is the best according to himself and the author. That is a message throughout the book. There also is conflict with Yellowhair being white after the raid from the Native American tribe members. Every chapter in this book is it's own mini plot, the book is full of intrigue and that makes it much more interesting to read overall.
So Yellowhair then has a plot to infiltrate the white society to see what they are up to for the tribe's intel. The book takes place during the height of fur trading in history, and in this specific book there are two nations involved in trading furs. There are dynamics between the American settlers and the Native Americans which are realistic to the historical time frame. The fact that the settlers are unable to be communicated with and are drunkards and tyrants, would have been true to some of the European settlers at the time. The story contains action and adventure in historical 1806 time frame with Lewis and Clark the famous explorers in our American history. Yellowskin is portrayed as a trustworthy cahracter in this book however the people at the fort betray him and make him think that he has something to do with an ambush on the fort town. There are a lot of examples of Yellowhair being betrayed and blaming him over things that were not his fault, you can not help but feel bad for Yellowhair as you read through the book. You want to root for him and have him have a happy ending for his journey.
The Priest character and Yellowhair's relationship remind me of one of my favorite books in literature with Huckleberry Finn and Jim who travel down a river together. There is so much going on in this entire book that you get so many things such as: betrayal, espionage, history, Native American culture, trading wars between companies, fortress battles, and much more! There is also an underlying message about status and how people turn on others once you loose that status, also how people follow others with higher status than themselves in society. This is a perfect example of our current society and how humans run. I actually really enjoyed this book, except there was one character who was the fortress leader who was written pretty one dimensional and was a bit grating at times while reading. Europeans were portrayed as dumb, drunks, and mean. The Native Americans were portrayed as decent, upstanding, and overall great people with great forbearance. This book also hints at the message bad guys win over nice guys, and nice guys finish last. There were many interesting and poignant messages in this book overall and I found myself thinking that this book was also similar in story line to another of L. Ron's books entitled Battlefield Earth, which I have previously read. If you like historical fictions, westerns, and are a history buff you will really like this book!
One of the explorers meets the tribe and wants the Blackfoot tribe to be part of the nation. The tribe was lied to before by a previous white person, so they are suspicious and not trusting of the white people in general. Our MC Yellowhair rushes into action when the tribe is attacked and his intended woman's father is killed, he does this a lot in the book as Impulsivity is the best according to himself and the author. That is a message throughout the book. There also is conflict with Yellowhair being white after the raid from the Native American tribe members. Every chapter in this book is it's own mini plot, the book is full of intrigue and that makes it much more interesting to read overall.
So Yellowhair then has a plot to infiltrate the white society to see what they are up to for the tribe's intel. The book takes place during the height of fur trading in history, and in this specific book there are two nations involved in trading furs. There are dynamics between the American settlers and the Native Americans which are realistic to the historical time frame. The fact that the settlers are unable to be communicated with and are drunkards and tyrants, would have been true to some of the European settlers at the time. The story contains action and adventure in historical 1806 time frame with Lewis and Clark the famous explorers in our American history. Yellowskin is portrayed as a trustworthy cahracter in this book however the people at the fort betray him and make him think that he has something to do with an ambush on the fort town. There are a lot of examples of Yellowhair being betrayed and blaming him over things that were not his fault, you can not help but feel bad for Yellowhair as you read through the book. You want to root for him and have him have a happy ending for his journey.
The Priest character and Yellowhair's relationship remind me of one of my favorite books in literature with Huckleberry Finn and Jim who travel down a river together. There is so much going on in this entire book that you get so many things such as: betrayal, espionage, history, Native American culture, trading wars between companies, fortress battles, and much more! There is also an underlying message about status and how people turn on others once you loose that status, also how people follow others with higher status than themselves in society. This is a perfect example of our current society and how humans run. I actually really enjoyed this book, except there was one character who was the fortress leader who was written pretty one dimensional and was a bit grating at times while reading. Europeans were portrayed as dumb, drunks, and mean. The Native Americans were portrayed as decent, upstanding, and overall great people with great forbearance. This book also hints at the message bad guys win over nice guys, and nice guys finish last. There were many interesting and poignant messages in this book overall and I found myself thinking that this book was also similar in story line to another of L. Ron's books entitled Battlefield Earth, which I have previously read. If you like historical fictions, westerns, and are a history buff you will really like this book!
December 14, 2025
Set in the American Northwest the fast-moving historical novel Buckskin Brigades portrays how the clash, between Native American tribes and expanding American influence impacts all lives. The story, focused on Michael Kirk— called Yellow Hair—a white man raised among the Blackfeet explores themes of survival, loyalty and identity amidst a turbulent era. The book masterfully brings to life the plains, rivers and tribal councils excelling in its portrayal. It's a compelling read from beginning to end because action, political tension, and personal conflict are all skillfully balanced. The story is still captivating and emotionally charged despite being written in a traditional style. A great option for readers who like stories about cultural conflict and bravery, historical adventure, and frontier settings.
January 9, 2026
Buckskin Brigades is set in 1806, at a moment when a young America begins pushing west into land that is vast and dangerous. Fur traders driven by profit cross into Blackfeet hunting grounds, breaking fragile boundaries. When Captain Meriwether Lewis fires a bullet that kills a Blackfoot warrior, that violent act sparks a conflict that refuses to stay contained. Survival is never guaranteed and every choice needs to be carefully made.
L. Ron Hubbard writes with an energy that makes the landscape feel alive. Reading a historical fiction written by the science fiction maestro felt quite different but equally excited. I could almost feel the events happening infront of my eyes through his descriptions.
The writing is unapologetic, intentional, intense. I found myself trusting the story because it felt grounded in real history and genuine fascination. Buckskin Brigades is the kind of historical fiction that lingers in the mind. It felt like I'm watching a movie. It's a short read that I finished in a day, it was totally worth it.
L. Ron Hubbard writes with an energy that makes the landscape feel alive. Reading a historical fiction written by the science fiction maestro felt quite different but equally excited. I could almost feel the events happening infront of my eyes through his descriptions.
The writing is unapologetic, intentional, intense. I found myself trusting the story because it felt grounded in real history and genuine fascination. Buckskin Brigades is the kind of historical fiction that lingers in the mind. It felt like I'm watching a movie. It's a short read that I finished in a day, it was totally worth it.
December 7, 2025
I don’t know how many times I’ve enjoyed this book! It’s such a great adventure and I believe the most accurate account of this period of time ever written!
Finally an honest portrayal of the original people of North America and the Europeans as seen from their viewpoint! Quite amusing in many areas!
A page turning adventure that has you cheering for the amazingly civilized “savage” !
Finally an honest portrayal of the original people of North America and the Europeans as seen from their viewpoint! Quite amusing in many areas!
A page turning adventure that has you cheering for the amazingly civilized “savage” !
February 16, 2019
More of a 3.5 Star book - its uncommon in two ways firstly its told from the perspective of the Blackfoot Native Americans and secondly is a book length work of fiction by Hubbard and not a collection of short stories.
This is essentially an extended work of Hubbard's pulp western writing so plenty of action with good dialogue and fun characters (with of course one Mary Sue) even if there isnt really any development of them. Still Hubbard does have a natural flair and ability to write in the broad western genre.
Its a book that would a 5 star for people who liked Dances with Wolves but thought it was too complicated, gory, long with too many quiet spells.
This is essentially an extended work of Hubbard's pulp western writing so plenty of action with good dialogue and fun characters (with of course one Mary Sue) even if there isnt really any development of them. Still Hubbard does have a natural flair and ability to write in the broad western genre.
Its a book that would a 5 star for people who liked Dances with Wolves but thought it was too complicated, gory, long with too many quiet spells.
December 4, 2012
I first read this book when I was very young. I loved the characters, how much they enchanted me and made me think of more than my own perspective.
I watched as movies and other stories were made with a similar premise in mind, but they always made me think of this book and how important it is to not think you are the only one who could be right.
I have re-read this book many times over the years and enjoyed it each time. Maybe the newness of the concept has worn a little with all the other stories, but this was one of the originals and will always hold a place dear to me.
I watched as movies and other stories were made with a similar premise in mind, but they always made me think of this book and how important it is to not think you are the only one who could be right.
I have re-read this book many times over the years and enjoyed it each time. Maybe the newness of the concept has worn a little with all the other stories, but this was one of the originals and will always hold a place dear to me.
March 22, 2011
This is my first Hubbard novel. I'd read a collection of short western stories and liked 'em, so I decided to try this. I think it was really good, though not amazing. I grew up reading Zane Grey and Louis L'amour, who both alread respected the red man, so LRH's attempts seem pretty heavy-handed and not original (to me, anyway). I think he portrayed Yellow Hair's experiences and feelings very well. I liked it!
September 23, 2018
L. Ron Hubbard brings a different view to tales of the American past. The main character, Yellow Hair, is a white man who was raised by native Americans and has little knowledge of the world of Lewis and Clark. Yellow Hair tries to reconcile what he understands of Indian culture to a white man's world of traders and competing governments. The story is a thought-provoking tale of different cultures in 1806. It may be that native Americans were more civilized than the European descendants.
June 19, 2008
this was a exilent historic acount of the Blackfeet indains during the lewis and clark era. it gave their veiw of the white man and a white man who grew up amoung the Blackfeet, his point of veiw on the white man; his confusion, thoughts, feelings and ideas during his captivity and the white forts in Canada.
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