The Captured
A True Story of Abduction by Indians on the Texas Frontier
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4.3 • 136 Ratings
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- $12.99
Publisher Description
"A carefully written, well-researched contribution to Western history -- and to a promising new genre: the anthropology of the stolen." - Kirkus Reviews
On New Year's Day in 1870, ten-year-old Adolph Korn was kidnapped by an Apache raiding party. Traded to Comanches, he thrived in the rough, nomadic existence, quickly becoming one of the tribe's fiercest warriors. Forcibly returned to his parents after three years, Korn never adjusted to life in white society. He spent his last years in a cave, all but forgotten by his family.
That is, until Scott Zesch stumbled over his own great-great-great uncle's grave. Determined to understand how such a "good boy" could have become Indianized so completely, Zesch travels across the west, digging through archives, speaking with Comanche elders, and tracking eight other child captives from the region with hauntingly similar experiences. With a historians rigor and a novelist's eye, Zesch's The Captured paints a vivid portrait of life on the Texas frontier, offering a rare account of captivity.
Customer Reviews
Very enjoyable
I searched out this book for more information about white captives of Texas plains Indian tribes after reading News of the World. It’s a very interesting and fascinating book that delves into the story from the perspectives of several people. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Great Historical Work
This is such a well-executed, compelling work detailing the occurrences and lives of various white captives by the Native Americans, including the author’s ancestor Adolf Korn. The way in which the narrative and commentary are presented is both factual and intriguing. Definitely a highly recommended read by a student with an interest in history.
A lost history beautifully told
Mr Zesch has written an extraordinary book from both an historical and personal perspective, the best "history" of all. His re-creations of the lives of these white Indian children is told while showing respect for both cultures. The psychological impact on these children was individualized for each child with insight and intelligence by the author. A great read.