The author of Dakota Circle has great hopes for the Great Plains, because despite a history of human and environmental tragedy, "eventually the land has its way with people, space becomes place, and viable, even elegant patterns of culture emerge. People stand more squarely on thier own feet, they speak for themselves, they build structures that back up their words, and they relate to one another in the fashion of a community. This is a work in progress." Confident in the regional future, historian and traveler Tom Isern is free to explore the delights of regional life--from fiberglass pheasants to Montana caviar--and to invite readers of Dakota Circle along for some excursions on the true plains.