Across the Endless River

by Thad Carhart

Born in 1805 on the Lewis and Clark expedition, Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau is the son of Sacagawea and Toussaint Charbonneau. He is raised both as William Clark’s ward in St. Louis and by his parents among the villages of the Mandan tribe on the far northern reaches of the Missouri river. In 1823 eighteen-year-old Baptiste is invited to cross the Atlantic with the young Duke Paul of Württemberg, whom he meets on the frontier. During their travels throughout Europe, Paul introduces Baptiste to a world he never imagined, and Baptiste ultimately faces a whether to stay in Europe or return to the wilds of North America. As we follow this young man on his intriguing sojourn, this remarkable novel resonates with the richness of three distinct cultures, languages, and customs.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, American History, Native American, Book Club, The United States Of America

322 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Thad Carhart, author of Across the Endless River, is a dual citizen of the United States and Ireland. He lives in Paris with his wife, the photographer Simo Neri, and their two children.

Reviews

[Sherri Huntley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The topic was interesting and the story line very good.

[Marvin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story based on the life of Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau, the son of Sacajawea & Toussaint Charbbonneau who was born during the first winter of the Lewis & Clark Expedition and traveled the rest of it, is unfailingly interesting. The Expedition itself, the subject of countless pages elsewhere, consumes only the first chapter (16 pages) of this novel. Most of the novel is taken up with Baptiste’s experiences during the 5 years (1824-1829) that he spent in Europe in the company of the European elite. Although the basic outline of the story is based in fact, apparently almost nothing of the details of those years is documented, so the experience is almost entirely imagined. The author, a dual citizen of the U.S. & Ireland who now lives in Paris, does his best to show his admiration for Baptiste’s ability to absorb multiple languages and adapt, however uncomfortably, to a number of different worlds, including but not limited to those of Mandan villages, the world of William Clark in St. Louis, the voyageur culture of trappers & the fur trade, the European courtly world, and the network of European scientists. (As one who is fascinated by and has studied individuals who straddle competing worlds--though mostly intellectual worlds--I was programmed to appreciate Baptiste’s story). I must say, though, that, given the author’s respect for Baptiste, it was disconcerting to see Sacajawea repeatedly referred to as a “squaw,” even from the perspective of the natives. And I couldn’t help wondering how differently the story would be told from a native’s perspective. I also wonder if the author is contemplating a sequel, telling the story of Baptiste’s subsequent life back in the States (this novel ends as he’s boarding a ship to return in 1829; according to Wikipedia, he lived another 35+ eventful years).

[K · Rating 2 out of 5]

i very much enjoy LT's Early Reviewers program, and i received "across the endless river" through it. i've been in a reading slump for over a month, since finishing "the shadow of the wind." i was hopeful "river" could pull me out of it. unfortunately, it did not.

"river's" subject matter intrigued me, as i know little about sacagawea, other than her association with lewis and clark (and her appearance in the ben stiller flick, night at the museum - sad, i know!). anyway, i also adore historical fiction. while i found "river" to be well written in a technical sense...and apparently, well researched...it was SO boring. the characters were cardboard, one dimensional - they never come alive on the page, and there's little conflict, if any, between them. i just couldn't get excited about them or their lives. perhaps the story would have been more interesting if the author had focused on sacagawea, b/c she was clearly ahead of her time. i feel bad not giving it more than two stars, b/c it's perfectly...serviceable...and that's my problem with it. i want more than that. life's too short for perfectly serviceable!!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surely there will be a sequel!

Great follow up book about the son of Sacagawea and Toussaint Charbonneau who was born on the Lewis and Clark expedition. But the book left you wanting to know more about the fate of Baptiste after he returned to America after his five years in Europe. The descriptions of life on the plains and rivers made you feel as if you were there. And his adventures in Europe captured the realities of life among the titled class. The depiction of Baptiste bridging two worlds was not only believable, it just left the reader wanting to know more about his extraordinary life!

[Krista · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful writing

The story is fascinating and that is due to the author's ability to imagine and artfully craft that world. Highly recommend any of his books!

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written novel about the son of Sacajawea and a French trapper, born on the Lewis & Clark expedition in North Dakota, but I found character development unconvincing. Too much is left out or glossed over in the early periods of the story from Charbonneau's birth to his voyage to Europe. Perhaps I felt this way because it was this part of his story that interested me the most, depicting exploration and settlement of the New World in the early nineteenth century. The story of his five years in Europe, including the development of several key relationships and his maturation during that time was much more detailed. As is often the case, I was disappointed by the fictionalized version of real events, although it seems there are many unknowns about Charbonneau's life.

[Marcia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was disappointed in this book. I greatly liked this author's novel "The Piano Shop on the West Bank" and was looking forward to this one, which was a selection for a history book club meeting. The main problem, apparently, is that there is so little information known about Jean-Baptiste Charbonnier, so most of this novel is blatant speculation about his young adult life in Paris. No question that the author has a tremendous knowledge of Paris, and while I generally like the historical novel format, these novels need to be anchored in some number of facts to interest me. Perhaps because of my bias in that area, I found it rather a slog to read.

[Maggie Eisenberger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read a few books about Lewis and Clark and Sacagawea already, I felt like this book aligned with everything I already knew. However, I have no idea how much of the rest is invented and how much could be documented. It follows the life of Sacagawea's son, born on the expedition, as he grows up, holds various positions (as a guide for others going west, for example), and even visits Paris as the guest of a German noble who dabbles in natural history explorations. True or not, it's an engaging yarn.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't believe I have had this book for almost 10 years before I finally got around to reading it. It is a fictionalized account of Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau, son of Sacagawea, who at the age of 19 was invited to go from living in Indian Territory on the Missouri River to tour Europe with Duke Paul of Wurttemberg, where he spent the next 5 years. Little in known of his actual time in Europe so Carhart has invented a fascinating and beautifully written account of what he thinks Baptiste could have experienced. I loved the descriptive writing! Highly recommend it (don't wait 10 years).

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully written historical novel that truly make me feel that I am there in that time with these wonderfully captured characters. However the romance took a little away from me and I don't think that is part of Jean-Baptiste's true story. With all the other facts carefully drawn this was somewhat jarring.

[Smalltownreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wondered if I was the only person enamoured by all things Lewis and Clark, that wanted to know what happened to Pompy, the baby born to Sacajewa during that expedition. My curiosity was sated with this novel. You could not make up a better story. And one dealing with historical fact is only more interesting to me. A good read for my fellow amateur historians.

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t finish it. I was hoping for a more scholarly, researched book about him.

[Sheree Lerman · Rating 1 out of 5]

Snoozeville. Maybe it picks up in later chapters, but I gave it a solid hour and blah

[Ansie de Swardt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the book interesting and charming. Not always 100% convinced by the characterisations. The descriptions of the life of the ruling class in early 19th century Europe was very interesting.

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pleasant enough read, yet an odd book. It had no plot. ‘A biracial man from America visits Europe during the early 19th century.’ That all it was.

[Celeste · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think it was very much fictionalized!...my interest is that I am related to Jean Baptiste Charbonneau....

[Jimmy Whittall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thad, I only wish you were more prolific.

[Julia V · Rating 3 out of 5]

put me into a spree of research about the 1800's, decent characters but got boring sometimes. very different from what I usually read though and not a bad book overall.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

"I love historical fiction. It offers me a chance to learn more about a person or about an era or a culture while reveling in my love of reading. It's like a pleasurable history lesson without the boring teacher droning on about dates. I agreed to review Across the Endless River solely because of my love of historical fiction, and I am supremely glad that I did. [return][return]While I love historical fiction, I find myself not reading it as often as I would like. Mr. Carhart reminded me why I love this particular genre so much. The descriptions of life on the frontier and in 1800s Europe was amazingly and gloriously detailed. I was able to immerse myself into the sights and smells of the scene. I mention the smells because it isn't often that scents are described in such detail, but I was able to imagine the scent of a huge herd of buffalo or a southern German forest. Descriptions like that definitely add to the overall historical aspect of the book, in my opinion.[return][return]Baptiste's struggles to find his place in society definitely highlight similar plights and cause the reader to reflect on what life was like for those considered inferior. From royalty looking down on their servants and villagers to women struggling to enter into a profession considered only suitable for men, Mr. Carhart brings these struggles to the fore and offers the reader a chance to look at history from another angle, one not often mentioned in the history books.[return][return]The other interesting aspect of the book was the lesson regarding learning for learning's sake without thinking of the consequences. Given the furor over environmental issues in today's society, the discussion of lost or conquered civilizations and a scientist's duty to preserve those civilizations any way possible does seem very pertinent to today's issues. Should we become so concerned with preserving specimens that we fail to see the big picture? What is a scientist's duty to civilization, to a culture?[return][return]As enjoyable as it was, Across the Endless River was not without its drawbacks. From one, there was a constant switch in narration that was extremely distracting. Switching from Baptiste to Paul and even to Maura left the reader feeling confused and prevented one from truly being engrossed in the book. The narrator's omniscience also felt as if it was a part-time plot device - when it suited the plot, the narrator was omniscient. When it was not necessary, then the narrator was as much in the dark about feelings and inner thoughts as the reader. Again, it was distracting.[return][return]Other than that, as I already mentioned, I really enjoyed this book. I had never given much thought to Sacagawea other than what she did for Lewis and Clark. To see the expedition from her eyes and then see the results of that expedition through the eyes of her son was a historical thrill. Having lived in Germany and having specialized in European history, to read about life as a royal in Europe from the inside circle was also engrossing. I have already passed along this book to my husband, who is currently reading it without any prompting from me. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in historical fiction, especially life on the frontier.[return][return]Thank you to Anna Suknov from FSB Associates for the opportunity to review this book!"

[Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first opinion I formed as I was reading this book was that the author must have done a lot of research before writing this. The level of detail provided about both life in America and life in Europe during this time period is staggering. Thad Carhart vividly recreates the contrasting societies and the citizens that comprise them.

Jean Baptiste is born from the union of parents from very different worlds. His struggles to fit in with both the Mandan tribe and the people of St. Louis prove fruitless as neither accept him fully. Baptiste being allowed to witness, but not take part in, the trials of his friends becoming men, punctuated the fact that he would not become a Mandan warrior. St. Louis society never truly accepts him as one their own either.

I found the overall theme of contrasting societies fascinating. The early part of the book concentrates on the differences between the Native Americans and the settlers on the frontier, while the latter part of the book focuses more on the contrast between European and American society. Baptiste is unprepared for what he finds in European culture. The best example of the differences occurs when Baptiste is invited to take part in a hunt while in France. In Europe the hunt is more of a game than anything else, whereas back in America his tribe hunted to provide food for their families.

The relationship between Baptiste and Duke Paul evolves throughout the story. Baptiste begins as guide to Paul during his travels along the frontier. Paul turns to guide once they depart St. Louis for Europe. The two are quite friendly with each other, yet Paul never truly sees Baptiste as an equal. If anything, he is seen as more of a science experiment; take the native out of the woods and see how he acts. It was rewarding to read that Baptiste was able to adapt to his new surrounding but still keep his homeland in his heart.

One downside to the novel comes with the descriptions of traveling from one family member to another. This grew a bit tedious throughout the later sections of the book. I enjoyed the descriptions of each area, but the plot could use a bit of a boost during this section. The first part of the book is fairly fast paced and the ending moves along quickly as well, the middle section gets a bit bogged down.

Most of the story takes place from Baptiste's point of view. Sprinkled throughout there are small pieces that show us perceptions from other characters. There are several segments from Duke Paul's journal that provide uneasy insight into his character. There are also letters from Maura to Baptiste that provide insight into her situation.

I enjoyed this book very much. I have been to Wikipedia to research several points from the book and that is always a good sign for a work of historical fiction. This is a good book for people new to historical fiction, the pace is, overall, fast for a work of this type and will hold your interest from the beginning. Seasoned readers of historical fiction will appreciate the research and thought that went into writing this novel.

[Janelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book through GoodReads' First Reads Program. I was especially interested to read it because I had recently read the author's other book, a non-fiction memoir called The Piano Shop on the Left Bank, which I had enjoyed. Here Carhart tells the story of Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau, the son of Sacagawea, as he grows into young manhood.

It seems obvious that this book is the author's first foray from the world of non-fiction to fiction. The historical details are clearly well-researched, the scenes are vividly described, and the author is fascinated by this man who spent his entire life never quite fitting in, no matter where he went.

It's when he tries to create a story, and more importantly, characters, out of these elements that the book falters. There is virtually no conflict, apart from Baptiste's internal conflict, which is endlessly reiterated. And the characters are flat and one-dimensional. The author attempts to give us a peek into some of the characters' thoughts by using letters and journals, but it doesn't really help.

I enjoyed the wonder of the descriptions of frontier America, and the juxtaposition of that world against the developed Old World. But as a story, the book just didn't pull me in.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

Little facts are known about Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau. He is the son of Sacagawea (Native American Indian translator on Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery) and French fur trader. He spend the first ~ 18 months of his life traveling from Fort Mandan, over the Bitterroot Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. At a young age, ~ 7 ish, he starts living with Captain Clark during the fall and winter months so he can be educated and spring and summer with his parents in the Indian village. At age 18, he travels to Europe with Duke Paul of Wurttemberg. He spends 5 years in Europe, then returns to the St. Louis area. All otther aspects of the book are filled in by author Chad Carhart. He creates many characters, especially in Europe,

The book, especially when on American soil, is a fascinating period piece for the early 1800's in the territory obtained from France in the Louisana purchase. I even learned alot about the life of the French and German aristocracy at the turn of the century.

When in Europe, the author turns the book into a bit of a romance novel.... ugh! I guess he needed something to write about to fill in the blanks. This aspect of the book did not work for me. It was tough book to finish after such an interesting start.

[BAM who is Beth Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

won on goodreads giveaway!

i do love historical fiction...most especially when it's written as wonderfully as this novel was. the imagined story of the young life of Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau (son of Sacagawea) was just captivating. it's hard to believe that the author fabricated the majority of this young man's journey...the story seemed so real.

of course, the meaty portion of the novel, Baptiste's 5 year journey throughout Europe, was the most fascinating and elaborated part of the novel...and i found that even though there wasn't much "action and adventure" in the book, i was still enticed to continue reading. in fact, i barely put the book down from start to finish.

the thoughtful and child like exploration of the "Old World" was brought to life through the eyes of a man raised as a Native American, marveling at all the intrigue that Europe had to offer.

i very much enjoyed this.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

From my book review blog Rundpinne... "Across the Endless River is a masterfully told tale of the life of Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau, the son of Sacagawea and Toussaint Charbonneau. The novel is told in such a manner that the reader is transported to the 19th century and one cannot help but feel as though one is transported back in time standing alongside Jean-Baptiste as he journeys, loves and ultimately must decide where he belongs. While historical in nature, the heart of the book is Jean-Baptiste’s struggle to find out who is and silence the inner longing to be accepted. The sense of not being of one nationality or another, leads Jean-Baptiste to journey and struggle to find himself and his home. Historical fiction fans will find this novel to be a brilliant novel and I dare say those who are uncertain whether or not historical fiction is the right genre for them, will not be disappointed with this book."

[penny shima glanz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book very quickly after I won the giveaway. The blurb indicated a book that combined elements I knew I could enjoy. Upon reading I found that and much more. This novel contains historical fiction, American frontier history, and European history in a delightful way by combining travelogue, epistolary writing, and journal entries into a novel which kept me turning pages. That it also raised thoughts on the servant/slave/whoami debate made me stop and think and want to read more about this time as I am sadly ignorant. Several reviewers have complained about lack of plot, but I found this writing style -- the interwoven viewpoints and methods used to tell Baptiste's unique story incredibly fascinating and a change from my normal reading. Overall this is an easy enjoyable and delightful read.

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sacagawea and Toussaint Charbonneau had a baby boy names Jean-Baptiste Charbonneau. His mixed heritage makes him feel like an outcast. When he turns eighteen, he befriends Duke Paul of Wurttemberg and together they travel around Europe. Jean Baptiste and Paul's cousin, Princess Theresa, begin a hot and steamy affair. When Theresa gives Baptiste an ultimatum, he's unsure of what to do. He travels to Paris and meets a woman named Maura. Now he's torn between two worlds and two women. What will he decide?

I felt like I traveled back in time and watched this novel come to life. This is a touching story of a man who has the world at his fingertips. He is forced to make important decisions that will alter his life forever.

[Liviu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a pretty good novel about the European travels of Jean Baptiste Charbonneau in the company of a German naturalist prince from 1824-1829; leaving aside the relative lack of plot which is not a big deal since the novel works well as a travelogue/meeting of cultures, the main falling is that in following a relatively well documented historical person, son of the famous Native American explorer Sacagwea and her French/Canadian husband, who had the distinction of following his mother as almost a newborn on the long Lewis and Clark expedition, the novel lacks wiggle room and that's most evident in the ending...

[MJ · Rating 1 out of 5]

I ‘m still scratching my head after reading Across the Endless River, trying to figure out the author’s point in writing it? I happen to be reading The Count of Monte Cristo in tandem with Across the Endless River. They are of the same era, with some of the same themes, Europe after Napoleon, and the fascination with travel and all things exotic, and even many of the characters have the same names, but there is where they part company. Dumas is such a master of conversation, and Carhart just seems to sprinkle conversation in now and again when even he must be getting tired of his droning on and on…..

[Nettie Rosenow · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book for a cold, midwestern winter read. History is blended with what the author thinks might have happened to particular characters, much like " The Girl With the Pearl Earring". Not as good as his first book, "The Piano Shop On The Left Bank" but worth the effort. There is a factual book about the life of Jean Baptiste available which would be interesting to read. I noted that the author did not credit that book in his acknowledgements.

[Michelle Griep · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lots and lots of history and detail, which is great for a textbook but not so much for a novel. Yes, I'm saying it dragged. I found myself skimming over entire paragraphs, and believe me, I NEVER do that.
The other thing that really bugged me was that the main character is in love with a woman yet sleeps with a different woman. What is that all about? Made me want to slap the fella.
Definitely not a thumbs-up kind of read.