Buffalo Bill from Prairie to Palace by John M. Burke is a fascinating and insightful biography of the legendary Buffalo Bill. The book delves into the life and adventures of William F. Cody, from his humble beginnings on the prairie to his rise to fame as a renowned showman and icon of the American West.

Burke's writing is engaging and vivid, painting a vivid picture of Cody's larger-than-life personality and the colorful cast of characters he encountered on his journey. The author's meticulous research and attention to detail bring the historical setting to life, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of Buffalo Bill.

What sets this biography apart is its focus on both the triumphs and complexities of Cody's life. Burke does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Cody's character, such as his treatment of Native Americans and his exploitation of the Wild West for entertainment.

Overall, Buffalo Bill from Prairie to Palace is a well-written and comprehensive biography that offers valuable insights into the life of an American legend. Whether you are a history buff or simply a fan of the Wild West, this book is sure to captivate and educate you.

Book Description:
William Frederick "Buffalo Bill" Cody is one of the legends of the American western frontier. As a teen he rode for the pony expressed and then drove for the Union Army during the U.S. Civil War. He later rejoined the army as a scout and was awarded the medal of honor for his valor during the Indian Wars. His fame became worldwide, however, through his flamboyant Wild West shows which toured not only across the American West but through England and Europe.
John M. Burke served as Cody’s publicist and promoter for the Wild West shows, propelling him into celebrity status. From his preface to this biography: "An association of some thirty years with the subject of these pages, a familiarity with his history gained by opportune meetings and conversations with comrades now living, and those since dead—who were witnesses of the events that assisted to make the individual prominent—makes me feel it a public duty to accede to the publisher’s request to compile a short, sharp, and veracious account of the unique history of this picturesque character. The compiler of the accompanying pages has attempted to present to the reader, in a terse, compact compendium of facts, the story of a career that, if given in a detailed biography, would absorb volumes, believing that owing to his prominence at home and abroad the public desire some authentic knowledge of the notable events in his career. In fact, here are presented a few plain truths, unadorned, for the benefit of those too occupied to have heretofore learned the story and triumphs of the frontier lad of nine years, from the wild Western scenes of Kansas and Nebraska, from the prairies of the Platte to the parlors of the East and the palaces of Europe." - Summary by Larry Wilson