The Deerslayer

Natty Bumppo -- also known as the Deerslayer the Pathfinder and Hawk-Eye -- returns in this adventure by Americas first great novelist. Originally published in 1841 The Deerslayer was the final installment of James Fenimore Coopers five Leatherstocking Tales although its action precedes that of the earlier novels. Thus the story provides a perfect introduction to the series tracing the young heros evolution from Deerslayer to Hawk-Eye. Cooper recalled the territory of his youth New Yorks Lake Otsego region in the settings of his novels recapturing the regions natural beauty as well as the danger and excitement of frontier life during the French and Indian War. This dramatic tale of the Deerslayers attempt to rescue a trapper and his family from an Iroquois attack was acclaimed by D. H. Lawrence as one of the most beautiful and perfect books in the world: flawless as a jewel and of gem-like concentration.