Title: Panther Across the Stars
Author: Lon Brett Coon
Publisher: Fallen Leaf Books
ISBN: 978-0999575819
Pages: 315
Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy/ Action & Adventure
Reviewed By: Jennifer Weiss
Pacific Book Review Star
Awarded to Books of Excellent Merit
In this first of a two part series, author Lon Brett Coon tells a historical tale of the American Indians, and the attempts to end their culture. Specifically a warrior named Tecumesh, in his book which is titled what is also his given Indian name, Panther Across the Stars. Readers learn as he battles the pale faces, yet remains curious about their cultural differences at the same time. In Tecumesh, we have a character who is passionate, exudes strength and compassion, is very intelligent and commands loyalty from those around him. He fights to bring unity between tribes while fighting against a common enemy, but the other tribes are too short sighted to unify together. Readers become invested in this story as we watch this warrior’s internal struggle on whether the fight is worth it, if peace between the paleface and the tribes is a possibility or a dream.
Panther Across the Stars is a story which displays bravery, love, strength, friendship and respect. We see a character who strives to find a common ground amongst one another to live in peace even when the other tribes are adverse to it. There are some political undertones and scenes of war, while at times overshadowing the story, they are necessary to tell an impressive and impactful tale of freedom. The synopsis of the book states “Just a man among a dying people, he inspires his kin beyond all limit of mind and body,” this character does far more than that. He brings strength and hope back to a nation which felt the loss of both. Coon gives readers a character which has substance beyond the story being told. We, as readers, are left wanting more from this tale.
Coon uses his words perfectly to pull the reader into his scenes, making them feel as though they are right beside the characters, watching their actions, hearing their voices. It’s truly magical to read a book that does this to its readers. He gives a lot of attention to the details of the Shawnee customs, capable to portray each one as a separate person while simultaneously as a tribal whole. In general, it is a heartbreaking story as readers watch as the Shawnee are pushed away from their land further and further. It made me want to become more educated on the subject and to learn more about this magnificent tribe; as that is exactly what I hope to read on Coon’s second book in his series.
Coon masterfully tells a story that sinks its teeth into the reader and doesn’t let go until the very end, even then the marks remains. It is one that burrows deep into your mind and threatens to never leave. Every once in a while a reader comes across a story that needs to be read, and Panther Across The Stars is such a book; it demands to be read. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story whether you enjoy historical novels or not, this is one that needs to be added to any bookshelf. I give it a STAR rating, as I can’t wait to read it again and also read the next one.
