Them Bones

Them Bones (1984) is Howard Waldrop's debut novel, combining elements of time travel, alternate history, and archaeological mystery. The narrative structure follows three separate yet connected storylines across different time periods and realities. In 1929 Louisiana, archaeologists make an impossible discovery while excavating a Native American mound: a horse skeleton and a brass rifle cartridge in layers that predate European contact. This finding triggers questions about the nature of time and historical accuracy. The core story tracks Madison Yazoo Leake, a U.S. Army soldier sent on a time travel mission to prevent nuclear catastrophe. His arrival in an alternate 1930s Louisiana - where history took radically different turns - leads to encounters with indigenous mound-builders and survival challenges. The novel explores themes of historical determinism, cultural contact, and humanity's relationship with time itself. Through its parallel narratives, the book raises questions about whether the past can truly be changed and what constitutes historical truth.

Readers point to Them Bones as a unique alternate history novel that combines time travel with archaeological elements. On Goodreads and Amazon, reviews highlight the complex interweaving of multiple storylines and timelines. Readers appreciated: - The detailed research into Native American cultures - The ambitious mixing of genres - The unconventional narrative structure - The accuracy of military and archaeological details Common criticisms: - Hard to follow multiple parallel plots - Confusion about which timeline is being depicted - Abrupt ending that leaves questions unanswered - Dense writing style that requires careful reading "The multiple viewpoints made it difficult to stay invested in any one character," notes one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads user praised "the meticulous attention to archaeological practices and Native American society." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.6/5 (300+ ratings) Amazon: 3.8/5 (40+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.7/5 (50+ ratings)

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🔸 Howard Waldrop wrote "Them Bones" in 1984, and it remains one of the earliest novels to explore the concept of parallel historical timelines rather than simple time travel. 🔸 The archaeological details in the book were inspired by real excavations of Native American mounds in Louisiana during the 1920s, particularly the Poverty Point site. 🔸 Waldrop is known for writing without a computer, composing all his works on a manual typewriter, including "Them Bones" and his other acclaimed works. 🔸 The novel's portrayal of alternative Native American civilizations was groundbreaking for its time, presenting sophisticated societies that developed without European contact. 🔸 Despite being a relatively slim novel at around 200 pages, "Them Bones" won the Locus Award nomination and is considered influential in both alternate history and time travel genres.