Centennial by james a. michener

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

This book encompassed what I like to envision as both the pinnacle and the nadir of Michener's works.

On the downside, it delved into what felt like an interminable quadruple bazillion years of "relevant" geology. The introductory story featuring a professor or researcher served as a never-ending information dump that persisted throughout the remainder of the book.

However, on the brighter side, oh my goodness... the manner in which Blue Leaf met her end was truly heart-wrenching. Sometimes with Michener, I don't fully comprehend how deeply I care about the characters until they are no longer there. But then again, they aren't really gone. Michener has the remarkable ability to breathe life into the entire story, allowing you to perceive how the past and the present are intricately intertwined. I adored the poignant transition from Blue Leaf to Clay Basket to the boys and beyond. The murders, such as concealing the body after hiding it in the well and later the family tragedy on the prairie, had the potential to be entire standalone books in their own right.

Overall, this book was a complex tapestry of Michener's strengths and weaknesses, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

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hgspan

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I was extremely excited to read this book, as Colorado, where we reside, is known as the Centennial State. Moreover, this particular book is about the settling of Northern Colorado, which is precisely where we live. How often does one have the opportunity to open a 900-page book and discover their own town right in the center of the map on the very first page? It was truly a remarkable find for me.

However, I soon encountered two significant problems. Firstly, the author literally started from the very beginning, describing the geological processes in minute detail. After reading 100 pages of text such as "The lava flow slowly ebbed, leaving a sizzling rent in the Pre-Cambrian earth...", I found myself growing impatient and decided to skip ahead. I skipped all the way to the dinosaurs, where I read, "The allosaurus raised its head from the pond. A shadow fell over the water as a gentle breeze blew." But even then, after another 250-page skip, we were only just getting to the prairie dogs, and by this point, my attention span had completely vanished.

Secondly, this book is historical fiction, but with a twist. Although many of the characters and events are based on real people and places, Michner gives them different names and also mixes in completely fictional cities and characters. I had hoped to learn something specific about the place where we live, but unfortunately, this book did not fulfill that purpose for me.

It seems that while the book had an interesting premise, the execution left much to be desired in terms of holding my attention and providing accurate information about the local area.

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Aure-Aui

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Centennial is an epic work by James Michener that delves into the American West. Spanning over two hundred years and seven generations, it was published in 1974. The story traces the history of the plains in northeastern Colorado, from prehistoric times to the mid-1970s. Set in the fictional town of Centennial, thought to be based on modern-day Greeley in Weld County, this book is particularly captivating for me as Colorado is my home.

The narrative begins with historian Dr. Lewis Verner being hired to research the history of Centennial for a US magazine. The magazine wants his perspective on the town's past. This sets the stage for a deep exploration of the land's history, from its prehistoric origins to the contemporary Centennial, which is now a struggling agricultural community affected by wild weather shifts due to poor practices.

The following chapters focus on the land and its inhabitants. Michener describes the geological formations of the Rocky Mountains and the area around the South Platte River, where Centennial is located. He also delves into the earliest life forms, such as dinosaurs and early man. Later, we meet the Arapaho Indian Lame Beaver and witness the arrival of fur traders and travelers.

Subsequent chapters detail the experiences of the Arapaho and Cheyenne Indians as white settlers encroach on their lands, taking over and causing great harm. The English establish the Crown Vee ranch and usurp water rights, leading to a struggle with the farmers. The introduction of sugar beets brings Mexican immigrants to harvest the crops, and there is also conflict between cattle and sheep ranches. The need for a meat processing plant arises as cattle become predominant.

The final chapter concludes with Dr. Verner searching for a prototype to end his narrative. Paul Garrett, a descendant of Lame Beaver, has regained control of the Crown Vee Ranch and is concerned about the environment. He is also involved in planning the upcoming centennial celebration of Colorado's statehood in 1876, which coincides with America's bicentennial. Paul is tapped to work for the new governor, protecting Colorado's fragile resources. This beautiful and powerful book offers a comprehensive look at the American West.

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cecropiamoth

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I truly enjoyed the author's unique trait of commencing his books right at the very start of time.

This approach allows him to build a rich and immersive world as he develops his story and characters gradually as time progresses.

It gives the reader a sense of journeying through the ages, experiencing the evolution of the narrative and the growth of the individuals within it.

The author's ability to craft a seamless and engaging tale that spans across time is truly remarkable.

It keeps the reader hooked from the very beginning, eager to discover what lies ahead in the story and how the characters will change and adapt as time marches on.

This trait adds depth and complexity to the books, making them a truly enjoyable read for those who appreciate a well-told story that takes them on a journey through time.

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goingbankai

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I didn't care for this at all.

It is a work that not so lightly extols the virtues of white, racist supremacy.

Native Americans, Mexicans, and blacks are demeaned and diminished to the point where they seem to have a sub-human stature.

Accordingly, it implies that it's okay to murder, maim, deride, cheat, steal, and belittle all those who are nonwhite.

This is a sad reflection of what some consider American historical literature.

It is a stark reminder of the dark and unjust past that has unfortunately left a lasting mark.

Rather than celebrating such works, we should instead strive to understand and learn from the mistakes of the past to build a more inclusive and equal future.

0 of 10 stars.

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RedCherryAnime

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Another of my favorite authors is someone whose works I have always found highly enjoyable.

I have yet to come across a single book of his that I didn't thoroughly relish. His latest offering is a captivating saga that delves into the lives of a family residing out west.

The story is filled with rich characters and engaging plotlines that keep the reader hooked from start to finish. It offers a vivid portrayal of the challenges and triumphs that the family faces in their new environment.

The author's writing style is both descriptive and engaging, allowing the reader to easily envision the landscapes and the emotions of the characters. This saga is not only entertaining but also provides valuable insights into the history and culture of the west.

It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good story that combines adventure, drama, and a touch of romance. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of literature.

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hearts22

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

YAY! I finally finished Centennial!

This will be my "token" Michener book! I really didn't mind reading this book although it was not the "drama" or entertainment book that I envisioned when I started reading it.

Michener is VERY thorough, making this more of a docu-drama type story. I learned way more than was probably necessary about the old west.....but I do not consider it a waste of my time.

On the contrary, I consider it good exposure to a very talented writer. I'm not sure that I will ever pick up another of his masterpieces, but I do know that if I do choose to read another some time, I will expect it to be a learning experience of the best quality!

Centennial provided me with a detailed and immersive look into the history and culture of the old west. Michener's attention to detail was remarkable, and it made me feel as if I was actually there, witnessing the events unfold.

Although the book was not as exciting as some of the other novels I've read, it was still a worthwhile read. I gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for the people and the times, and that is something that I will always cherish.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in history or who wants to experience the work of a great writer. It may not be for everyone, but for those who are willing to take the time and effort to read it, it will be a rewarding experience.

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ayitsanisa

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Yes, it's about Colorado.

It seems that everyone in the universe has been telling me that I "have to" read this particular thing related to Colorado.

Perhaps, one day in the future, I'll gather the motivation and start reading from page 250 and manage to finish it.

However, when it comes to the part about the dinosaurs, I just can't bring myself to do it.

Maybe it's because the topic of dinosaurs doesn't interest me as much as other aspects of this Colorado-related piece.

Or perhaps there's something about the way it's presented that makes it seem less appealing.

Whatever the reason, for now, the dinosaurs remain an unread part of this story.

But I still hold out hope that eventually, I'll be able to overcome this hurdle and fully engage with the entire text.

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Centennial

james a. michener

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james a. michener

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