Stronghand by Gustave Aimard (1867)

Name: Stronghand
Author: Gustave Aimard

The story revolves around a young Frenchman who becomes embroiled in the fur trade and struggles to survive against hostile Native American tribes and harsh environmental conditions. He forms alliances with some tribes but also faces betrayal, leading to violent confrontations. The narrative explores themes of survival, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships amidst the unforgiving wilderness. The protagonist's experiences shape his worldview, forcing him to adapt and evolve in order to stay alive. His journey is marked by moments of great danger, personal growth, and ultimately, a transformation that defines his character.

By Gustave Aimard · First published 1867 · Genre: Adventure, Western, Historical Fiction · 40 chapters · 143,499 words

First lines

The country extending between the Sierra de San Saba and the Rio Puerco, or Dirty River, is one of the most mournful and melancholy regions imaginable.

This accursed savannah, on which bleach unrecognized skeletons, which the wind and sun strive to convert into dust, is an immense desert, broadcast with grey rocks, beneath which snakes and wild beasts have, from time immemorial, formed their lurking-place, and which only produces black shrubs and stunted larches that rise from distance to distance above the desert.

What this Textopian page supports

Stronghand is listed on Textopian as a novel by Gustave Aimard, dated 1867 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Gustave Aimard
Date: 1867 CE
Language: English
Genres: Adventure, Western, Historical Fiction, Action, Drama
Length: 143,499 words
Structure: 40 chapters, 3,175 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Stronghand by Gustave Aimard
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by Gustave Aimard fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Adventure — The plot is driven by action-packed sequences and exploration.
Western — The setting and themes are characteristic of the American frontier.
Historical Fiction — The narrative incorporates historical elements and settings.
Action — The story is filled with dynamic and intense action scenes.