Rachaelbookhunter's Reviews > Red Dead's History: A Video Game, an Obsession, and America's Violent Past

Red Dead's History is US History told through the lens of a bestselling video game

Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption II , set in 1911 and 1899, are the most-played American history video games since The Oregon Trail. Beloved by millions, they’ve been widely acclaimed for their realism and attention to detail. But how do they fare as recreations of history? The author, who is a history professor and based a class on the same idea, uses the storyline and themes of the game to explore the landscape of American violence between 1870 and 1920.

I have always loved history. I also love video games though I've never played Red Dead Redemption. I was very excited to pick up this book for those reasons and because of the unique way of relating US history. This book far exceeded my expectations. It made the history lover in me very happy. I learned so many things I wish I had known before. US history is vast and there is so much to learn. Much of what we have been taught is wrong or incomplete.

This book is exciting to read. The author's writing style is so good, he makes learning a page turning experience. I wish I could take his class because this idea for Red Dead's History is unique and fun. He also does a good job making you want to play the video game.

Read this book. It's a top read of the year for me.

Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read!