Lonesome Dove
About the Series
Lonesome Dove is an epic Western novel that follows the adventurous journey of two retired Texas Rangers, Woodrow F. Call and Augustus 'Gus' McCrae, as they embark on a cattle drive from the Rio Grande to Montana. This sweeping tale explores the rugged life of the American West, depicting the harsh realities of frontier life, deep friendships, and the pursuit of dreams amidst the backdrop of love, loss, and the vast, unforgiving landscape.
Series Details
- Author:Larry McMurtry
- Started:1985
- Books:5
- Status:Complete
Genres
Themes
Books in Order
Lonesome Dove
1985The first book in the series introduces the characters of Woodrow F. Call and Augustus McCrae as they lead a cattle drive from Texas to Montana. The narrative follows their adventures and the diverse cast of characters they encounter, showcasing the beauty and brutality of the American West.
Streets of Laredo
1993In this sequel, Woodrow F. Call is now a bounty hunter, tasked with tracking down a notorious bandit. The story explores themes of aging, loss, and the relentless pursuit of purpose as Call grapples with his past and the choices that define him.
Dead Man's Walk
1995This prequel to Lonesome Dove recounts the early adventures of Call and McCrae as young Texas Rangers. Set in the 1840s, the narrative delves into their formative experiences, the harsh realities of frontier life, and the events that shaped their legendary partnership.
Comanche Moon
1997Another prequel, Comanche Moon explores the years before Lonesome Dove, focusing on the early lives of Call and Gus as they confront both Comanche warriors and the challenges of their own youthful ideals. The novel deepens the reader's understanding of these iconic characters.
The Lonesome Dove Series: A Companion
2000This companion piece provides insights into the characters, themes, and historical contexts of the Lonesome Dove series, offering fans a deeper appreciation of McMurtry's work. It includes character analyses, plot summaries, and detailed maps of the cattle drive routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lonesome Dove a standalone novel or part of a series?
Lonesome Dove is both a standalone novel and the first book in a series. It has several sequels and prequels that expand on the characters and stories introduced in the original novel.
What are the main characters in Lonesome Dove?
The main characters include Woodrow F. Call, a stoic and determined former Texas Ranger; Augustus 'Gus' McCrae, his charming and philosophical partner; and a host of supporting characters who enrich the narrative with their own stories.
What makes Lonesome Dove a significant work in Western literature?
Lonesome Dove is considered a landmark of Western literature due to its rich character development, realistic portrayal of life in the American West, and exploration of profound themes such as friendship, love, and the harsh realities of frontier life.