The title story, The Hanging Tree, is based on a true episode in Montana's gold-mining past. Three amazing characters meet: the cynical Doc Frail; the boy robber named Rune, whom Doc saves and enslaves; and Elizabeth, the young easterner who survives an Indian assault and comes under the care of Doc and Rune. In the gold-mining camp of Skull Creek Elizabeth becomes the mysterious Lucky Lady. A vigorous, psychological western, The Hanging Tree was made into a movie starring Gary Cooper.

The stories in this book consolidate Dorothy M. Johnson's reputation for authenticity and artistic integrity. 'Lost Sister' is based on the recapture of Cynthia Ann Parker, a white woman abducted by the Comanche Indians. 'The Man Who Knew the Buckskin Kid' tells of two married people and an outlaw who share a secret. Fully as arresting are 'The Last Boast,' 'Journal of Adventure,' 'I Woke Up Wicked,' 'The Gift by the Wagon,' 'A Time for Greatness,' 'The Story of Charley,' and 'Blanket Squaw.'