In a clear, well-balanced narrative Grove Day has made available for the first time a detailed account of the last and largest of the expeditions of the Spanish conquistadores in America— that of Francisco Vásquez Coronado. The author’s command of relevant documentary material and his knowledge of the region the expedition traversed give vigor and authenticity to the work.

The emphasis is on the story itself, told in a simple and direct style, and on its inherent drama. Selection of effective detail is a commendable feature, but dependence on “he-eould-not-know” technique for maintaining suspense is a minor flaw. The author does incorporate evaluation and interpretation in his presentation of the way in which the expedition was organized, his characterization of its principal figures, and his account of obstacles, misdeeds, and errors of judgment. Day also appraises Coronado’s achievements and his general significance.

Well-chosen black-and-white illustrations supplement the text. The routes of the expedition are shown on a map used as end-papers. Pronunciation of names in the index is indicated.