Twenty-eight western historians provide a portrait of the American West, its peoples, its terrains, and the social and political forces which shaped it.

In 1870 Dakota Territory, "Bloody" Chester Kates is in for some surprises when he agrees to burn down the town of Whale, believed to be inhabited by something wicked, in order for the Union Pacific to continue construction of the railroad.

"The daring and loyal dachshund Noodles, the boy inventor Wally Kennewickett, and his scientific genius family and staff of automatons join forces with Nikola Tesla to defeat sky pirates, cross Europe in a giant mechanical spider, and defy the evil Mesmers"--Provided by publisher.

A new nation that would stretch from ocean to ocean: this was the dream. Follow it into reality, from Jefferson and Monroe arranging the Louisiana Purchase through the bold explorations of Lewis & Clark, and Sacagawea. Feel the devastating effects faced by proud native American warriors, and witness the mammoth undertaking of the transcontinental railroad. Journey with the brave souls who hung out the sign, "Gone West!"