I don't read history books very much, but once I started, I kept going even though this chapter of American history is pretty painful. Sides writes an engaging story, and maintains a very objective viewpoint throughout. Unfortunately, the version I read was abridged (I didn't know that when I started), so I can't really comment on the writing. Still, I think all Americans should remind themselves periodically that the borders of this country did not spring into being on their own, but were established via violence, death and suffering of many people.