The U. P. Trail By: Zane Grey (1872-1939)
The U.P. Trail by Zane Grey is a riveting and compelling novel that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the American West. Set in the late 19th century, this tale masterfully combines elements of adventure, romance, and historical fiction to create a captivating story. The plot follows the life of Warren Neale, a young man determined to work on the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. Neale's drive and ambition quickly land him a job as a track layer, where he becomes exposed to the treacherous conditions and dangers that come with the job. Grey's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers to the desolate landscapes of the West, making them feel as if they are right beside Neale as he battles against harsh weather and confronts various adversaries. What sets The U.P. Trail apart from other novels of its kind is Grey's ability to intertwine an enchanting love story within the overarching narrative. Neale's encounters with Allie Lee, a strong-willed and independent young woman, add a touch of romance that beautifully complements the action-packed plot. Their relationship blossoms against the backdrop of a thriving railroad industry, and readers will find themselves emotionally invested in their journey. Furthermore, Grey's attention to detail and meticulous research shine through in every aspect of the novel. From the accurate depiction of the challenges faced by railroad workers to the authentic portrayal of life in the Old West, his commitment to historical accuracy makes for an immersive reading experience. The author's passion for the subject matter is evident, and readers will appreciate being transported back to a critical period in American history. The U.P. Trail also boasts a rich cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. Grey skillfully brings them to life, allowing readers to form deep connections with these individuals. From Neale's unwavering determination to Lee's fierce independence, the characters feel genuine and relatable, making it easy for readers to become fully absorbed in their stories. While The U.P. Trail is undeniably an engaging and well-crafted novel, it does have a few minor flaws. At times, Grey's extensive descriptions and detailed accounts of railroad construction may feel overly extensive to some readers. However, these minor pacing issues do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story. In conclusion, The U.P. Trail is a must-read for lovers of Western fiction, historical novels, and thrilling adventure tales. Zane Grey's expert storytelling and captivating characters bring the American West to life, capturing the essence of an era defined by ambition, perseverance, and love. This novel is a testament to the author's skill and remains a timeless classic in its genre. First Page: THE U. P. TRAIL By Zane Grey ...When I think how the railroad has been pushed through this unwatered wilderness and haunt of savage tribes; how at each stage of the construction roaring, impromptu cities, full of gold and lust and death, sprang up and then died away again, and are now but wayside stations in the desert; how in these uncouth places Chinese pirates worked side by side with border ruffians and broken men from Europe, gambling, drinking, quarreling, and murdering like wolves; and then when I go on to remember that all this epical turmoil was conducted by gentlemen in frock coats, with a view to nothing more extraordinary than a fortune and a subsequent visit to Paris it seems to me as if this railway were the one typical achievement of the age in which we live, as if it brought together into one plot all the ends of the world and all the degrees of social rank, and offered to some great writer the busiest, the most extended, and the most varied subject for an enduring literary work. If it be romance, if it be contrast, if it be heroism that we require, what was Troy to this? ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON In ACROSS THE PLAINS 1 In the early sixties a trail led from the broad Missouri, swirling yellow and turgid between its green groved... Continue reading book >>

The U. P. Trail By: Zane Grey (1872-1939)

The U.P. Trail by Zane Grey is a riveting and compelling novel that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the American West. Set in the late 19th century, this tale masterfully combines elements of adventure, romance, and historical fiction to create a captivating story.

The plot follows the life of Warren Neale, a young man determined to work on the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. Neale's drive and ambition quickly land him a job as a track layer, where he becomes exposed to the treacherous conditions and dangers that come with the job. Grey's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers to the desolate landscapes of the West, making them feel as if they are right beside Neale as he battles against harsh weather and confronts various adversaries.

What sets The U.P. Trail apart from other novels of its kind is Grey's ability to intertwine an enchanting love story within the overarching narrative. Neale's encounters with Allie Lee, a strong-willed and independent young woman, add a touch of romance that beautifully complements the action-packed plot. Their relationship blossoms against the backdrop of a thriving railroad industry, and readers will find themselves emotionally invested in their journey.

Furthermore, Grey's attention to detail and meticulous research shine through in every aspect of the novel. From the accurate depiction of the challenges faced by railroad workers to the authentic portrayal of life in the Old West, his commitment to historical accuracy makes for an immersive reading experience. The author's passion for the subject matter is evident, and readers will appreciate being transported back to a critical period in American history.

The U.P. Trail also boasts a rich cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. Grey skillfully brings them to life, allowing readers to form deep connections with these individuals. From Neale's unwavering determination to Lee's fierce independence, the characters feel genuine and relatable, making it easy for readers to become fully absorbed in their stories.

While The U.P. Trail is undeniably an engaging and well-crafted novel, it does have a few minor flaws. At times, Grey's extensive descriptions and detailed accounts of railroad construction may feel overly extensive to some readers. However, these minor pacing issues do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.

In conclusion, The U.P. Trail is a must-read for lovers of Western fiction, historical novels, and thrilling adventure tales. Zane Grey's expert storytelling and captivating characters bring the American West to life, capturing the essence of an era defined by ambition, perseverance, and love. This novel is a testament to the author's skill and remains a timeless classic in its genre.

First Page:

THE U. P. TRAIL

By Zane Grey

...When I think how the railroad has been pushed through this unwatered wilderness and haunt of savage tribes; how at each stage of the construction roaring, impromptu cities, full of gold and lust and death, sprang up and then died away again, and are now but wayside stations in the desert; how in these uncouth places Chinese pirates worked side by side with border ruffians and broken men from Europe, gambling, drinking, quarreling, and murdering like wolves; and then when I go on to remember that all this epical turmoil was conducted by gentlemen in frock coats, with a view to nothing more extraordinary than a fortune and a subsequent visit to Paris it seems to me as if this railway were the one typical achievement of the age in which we live, as if it brought together into one plot all the ends of the world and all the degrees of social rank, and offered to some great writer the busiest, the most extended, and the most varied subject for an enduring literary work. If it be romance, if it be contrast, if it be heroism that we require, what was Troy to this?

ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON In ACROSS THE PLAINS

In the early sixties a trail led from the broad Missouri, swirling yellow and turgid between its green groved... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Romance
Westerns

eBook links
Wikipedia – Zane Grey
Wikipedia – The U. P. Trail

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac