The narrative focuses on Crazy Horse, whose childhood name was Haska, meaning "curly." His light complexion and brown wavy hair set him apart as a young boy. As the novel's subtitle indicates, Garst emphasizes Crazy Horse's skill as a Sioux warrior. As a young boy, he becomes a great horseman who rides from the side of his horse with only one heel showing over the horse's neck, a trick the Sioux used in battle because they know their Native American foes would rather capture a valuable horse than kill it just to get their enemy.

Crazy Horse becomes the first Sioux leader to insist that his warriors fight as a unit instead of fighting for individual glory, and this revolutionary tactic wins many victories for the Sioux. In addition to his skill in battle, Crazy Horse's concern for his people—especially the aged...