Accessible to general readers yet detailed enough for scholars, this book offers a narrative account of the history of California, from the Spanish conquest launched in 1769, to 1848 when California became part of the US. The narrative account draws on primary sources and integrates many quotes from eyewitness accounts of Native Americans, Spanish, Mexicans, and Anglos, including soldiers, missionaries, merchants, and European immigrants. There are also vignettes of historical figures. The book is illustrated with 21 b&w historical illustrations and 3 historical maps. Hyslop has written other works of history. Annotation 2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
