Firstly, should you read this book? If you’re an American or a person interested in learning about American history the answer is yes.

I’m well into my 4th decade on this planet and have spent 100% of that time as an American citizen. There are plenty of subjects in which I am not well-versed, but have gained some rudimentary knowledge. It is rare to discover such a massive event within the 20th century that I had zero knowledge of whatsoever. Prior to reading this book I’m embarrassed to admit I had never heard of the Osage Indians.

Killers of the Flower Moon is extensively researched. Personal accounts are vast. References consume the last 30% of the book. In spite of this being a historical account the story clips along like a riveting novel. The deeper dive into the breadth of these atrocities following the initial conviction is especially eye opening. This is only one documented account in a relatively small geographic area. How many more stories will be forever buried?

In this era of heightened cultural sensitivity Americans may experience guilt upon reading this work of non-fiction. We do occupy the lands formerly occupied by Native Americans. All counties today exist, at least in part, through taking the land of others. Nobody living today had any part in the expansion of the United States into Native American territory. For the most part our ancestors were not sinister people, but people just like you and I working to seek a better life. We can move forward in celebrating Native American’s rich heritage. Restorative justice is not possible. Remedial justice will ultimately increase separation and foster resentment. We are America, all of us. Let’s try acceptance, recognition and forgiveness.