The Real Deadwood: True Life Histories of Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Outlaw Towns, and Other Characters of the Lawless West

Frankly, I am astonished at just how much David Milch relied on the available historical record in writing his brilliant HBO series, DEADWOOD. Rather than making the TV show seem redundant, however, I am duly impressed with Milch's ability to bring history to life! This book is must reading for fans of the show, but also for anyone who wants to understand the workings of a gold rush town in the Black Hills.

A great companion to the movie series “Deadwood” as it gives added historical depth to the series identifying actual historical characters as well as those in the series that were composites of several real persons!

If you're looking for a fast, easy read about Deadwood with little detail, insight, or depth, this is the book for you. The book offers nothing new or interesting for those of us already familiar with Deadwood's history.I also consider the strong tie in to the HBO series (which is, by the way, my favorite show) generally ill advised. The positive aspect of doing so is the author makes it clear early in the book that the series is not completely factual, the writers, producers, etc. do not intend for the show to be completely factual, and the book addresses some of these characters, events, situations presented in the series, and "corrects" the facts. Unfortunately, in a few cases, the author discusses fictional characters/situations from the series, it's important to understand the context and details of the reference, the context and details are not included in the book, so only readers who've watched the series would understand the references. I'm sure there are a lot of people interested in Deadwood and it's history who haven't watched or have no interest in the series. Overall, I found the constant references to the series annoying. I love the series, I wanted to learn more about the real Deadwood, I didn't want to read about the series, I didn't get what I wanted or thought I'd get from this book.

I liked the book. Covered a cast of characters. I enjoy reading about the old west and the book did not disappoint.

Excited to go to deadwood bought this for a summer trip there

This book is a concise coverage of all the major players and events that were involved in the rise of Deadwood. It does a decent job of giving the reader the facts and speculations about those people who played a part in Deadwood history.

For fans of the Old West and the HBO show, I strongly recommend this book. I went to Deadwood as a kid, and I remember seeing a show where a mannequin Wild Bill Hickok gets shot playing poker... Years later watched Deadwood and became even more fascinated with all of the characters that moved in and out of the town.

I got this for a Christmas present for my father and he absolutely loved the book. If you are a Deadwood fan, he says that it follows the show well while filling in the details you may not have known

Very with this transactions with the seller = recommend strongly. A+++

Quite interesting read good value

excellent

Great item, and good value, quick delivery. Recommended seller!

Enjoyed it