|
This
action-packed novel is a fictionalized version of the ill-fated
16th-century expedition by Panfilo de Narvaez, and is based on
the true Account of Cabeza de Vaca published in Spain in 1542.
Its protagonist, Estevanico, was a Moorish slave in the service
of Captain Dorantes. Both served under the command of the ruthless,
one-eyed Panfilo de Narvaez. He and 600 inexperienced soldiers
entered the dark jungle swamps of 'La Florida' on what they believed
would be a grand and passionate conquest. This entertaining story
highlights the exploits of Estevanico, who author/historian Douglas
Preston has called 'one of the most extraordinary men in the history
of the European discovery of America'.
|