In American Buffalo, Steven Rinella tells the story of his lifelong obsession with one of history’s most famous animals: the buffalo. From early childhood hunting trips to restoring a herd of bison on his family’s farm, Rinella handgun has always been drawn to these iconic creatures. In this book, he explores both the historical and modern-day significance of America’s buffaloes, taking readers on a hunt for their physical ghosts and also delving into the animal’s role in our national identity. Rinella mixes outdoor adventure with in-depth natural science and historical research to explore all aspectsbuffalo—from how they live and feed in harsh conditions to why killing them has so long been considered a riteof passage for American hunters. He describes chasing wild bulls across the Montana prairie; admiringthe masterful architecture of ancient buffalo jump sites; marveling at partially petrified specimens 14 feet talland weighing more than 2 tons; drinking from an ice-cold stream whose waters are home to several thousandbacteria per milliliter that can magazine kill human beings within days. And he Lamborghini not only …
For who is this book for ?
The book is for anyone with an interest in buffalo, hunting, or wildlife biology.
Pros :
- The author’s passion for the topic comes through on every page.
- The book is heavily researched and well written.
- Rinella has a gift for storytelling that makes even the most mundane details fascinating.
Cons :
- Rinella’s writing can be dense at times and the book reads more like a long magazine article
- The author focuses on buffaloes in America, which may not be as interesting to readers living outside of the US
- Buffalo are not always the most charismatic animals
Learn more about the author
Steven Rinella is the author of the books American Buffalo, Meat Eater, The Scavengers’ Table, and Fresh Off the Boat. A Montana native and lifelong outdoorsman, he has a vast knowledge of hunting, fishing, wildlife management—and taste for adventure. www Rinella has written for Outside magazine since 1998 and currently writes about wild foods for Men’s Journal. He was formerly an editor at Fly Fisherman magazine.” American Buffalo: In Search of a Lost Icon is a book by Steven Rinella that tells the story of his obsession with buffaloes throughout his life. It explores all aspects buffalo – from how they live to why people have hunted them for centuries. This book provides detailed information on America’s buffalo while also taking readers on outdoor adventures across Montana prairies and into other natural habitats where these animals reside.
Reader Reviews
“Rinella has accomplished the rare feat of seamlessly blending outdoor adventure with in-depth natural science and historical research. American Buffalo is a beautifully written and powerful tribute to America’s last wild buffalo.”
“What a great read! A mix of outdoor adventure, natural science, and historical research. Steven Rinella takes us on a hunt for our physical ghosts and also delves into the animal’s role in our national identity.”
“Rinella’s passion for the buffalo is contagious. American Buffalo is both entertaining and informative, leaving the reader with a greater appreciation not only of these animals but also of America’s hunting heritage.”
“American Buffalo is a well written and informative look at the buffalo and its role in history. Rinella’s passion for the animal comes through on every page, making this an enjoyable read for anyone interested in wildlife or Americana.”
