By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Craig Fehrman's "This Vast Enterprise: A New History of Lewis & Clark" is a monumental work that breathes new life into the well-trodden narrative of the famed expedition. Published on April 21, 2026, this 544-page tome offers a revisionist perspective that challenges long-held myths and introduces readers to overlooked figures integral to the journey.

Fehrman's meticulous research is evident throughout the book. He spent five years delving into over thirty archives, conducting more than a hundred interviews, and gathering Indigenous oral histories. This exhaustive effort culminates in a narrative that is both comprehensive and compelling. By shifting the focus from the traditional duo of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, Fehrman illuminates the contributions of individuals like John Ordway, a working-class soldier who faced grizzlies and towed the captains' cumbersome barge, and Wolf Calf, a Blackfoot teenager who witnessed the death of a friend during a skirmish with Lewis's men. ([bookbrowse.com](https://www.bookbrowse.com/bb_briefs/detail/index.cfm/ezine_preview_number/23418/this-vast-enterprise?utm_source=openai))

The structure of the book is particularly noteworthy. Each chapter adopts a different individual's perspective, providing a multifaceted view of the expedition. This approach not only humanizes the participants but also underscores the complexity of their interactions and the challenges they faced. For instance, Fehrman uncovers Thomas Jefferson's clandestine maneuvers to fund the expedition amidst a politically tumultuous era, offering a case study in presidential power. ([bookbrowse.com](https://www.bookbrowse.com/bb_briefs/detail/index.cfm/ezine_preview_number/23418/this-vast-enterprise?utm_source=openai))

Critics have lauded Fehrman's work. The New York Times describes it as a "page-turner and a fantastic achievement," while the Wall Street Journal calls it "immensely engaging." ([craigfehrman.com](https://craigfehrman.com/?utm_source=openai)) Booklist, in a starred review, praises the book as "riveting" and "grounded in outstanding scholarship." ([simonandschuster.com](https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/This-Vast-Enterprise/Craig-Fehrman/9781982174248?utm_source=openai))

Fehrman's narrative style is both vivid and accessible. He balances the inherent adventure of the expedition with the humanity of its protagonists, making the story resonate with contemporary readers. The inclusion of over seventy full-color images and more than twenty new maps enhances the reader's immersion into the historical context. ([craigfehrman.com](https://craigfehrman.com/?utm_source=openai))

In conclusion, "This Vast Enterprise" is a masterful reexamination of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Fehrman's dedication to uncovering new documents and perspectives results in a narrative that is both enlightening and engaging. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, exploration, or the complexities of human endeavor.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 4/30/2026