Four-Legged Legends of Montana

by Gayle C. Shirley

For the first time in one collection, here are Montana's most famous animal stories, carefully researched and written by Great Falls author Gayle C. Shirley. Read about... Shep, the sheep dog at Fort Benton that met every train for more than five years, waiting faithfully for its master to return home. Earl, the vagabond elk that wandered to Missouri and became an ambassador for Montana. Giefer, the notorious grizzly that ransacked cabins and outsmarted trappers throughout the Flathead Valley. These stories and more reveal how some animals were celebrated for their loyalty and intelligence, while others were cursed because their instincts to survive put them in conflict with people. Whatever the reasons, their legends provide enjoyable reading for animal-lovers of all ages.

79 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Wilhelmena · Rating 1 out of 5]

It was supposed to be legendary animal legends, not about the Calvary, the Indians or Lewis and Clark. I felt like I was back in the classroom learning history. It was boring, very boring. This writer is lucky to get any star. If it were up to me I wouldn't give a star, so I gave 1 star.

[Alex Cotterill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gayle‘s book for me is too short. Ten stories in just around 70 pages. The stories about the animals were very interesting and gripping, although it’s a shame most of them were killed, but some of the stories like Shep and Earl were incredible. Just needs more detail to be honest.

[Mary Barnes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and sweet, learned a ton about Montana and Montanan history, which was slay. It was fun to finally have better wildlife stories to talk about with my wildlife biologist husband ☺️ only 4 stars because it honestly could’ve been longer.

[Karen GoatKeeper · Rating 3 out of 5]

Montana, Big Sky Country, has many stories and legends about both the people and animals who have called the state home. Gayle Shirley chose ten to write about.
The book is much too short. The stories are short, under 1000 word, essays about the chosen topic. They are a strict recitation of the facts and read like a newspaper item.
The subjects are of interest. Some are more famous outside of Montana than others.
The book is fast, easy to read. It is a fair introduction to the animals written about. Some may pique curiosity enough to check into them further.