Blacktail Mountain Books

09/07/2026

Just a reminder that problems with this page led us to move to a Facebook group with the same name.

Messaging us there is much more reliable. This page does not function well.

Our apologies for the inconvenience.

The Crew.

08/21/2026

In 1979, I was making more as a deckhand at C&C Plywood than my friend was making wearing the KPD uniform.

07/24/2026

Today we mourn the passing of a distinguished member of The Heinlein Society, Dr. C. Herbert Gilliland.

Herb Gilliland was a retired professor of English at the United States Naval Academy, and a retired naval reserve captain. He taught courses there on topics ranging from Renaissance literature to science fiction. He particularly enjoyed teaching a special course on Robert Heinlein, a graduate of the Naval Academy and the author of Starship Troopers. (This was the first college course ever dedicated entirely to Heinlein.) Herb’s scholarly work tends to be concerned with naval history. He is the author of Voyage to a Thousand Cares: Master’s Mate Lawrence with the African Squadron 1844-1846, which received the North American Society for Oceanic History’s John Lyman Book Award. With Robert Shenk, he co-authored the biographical Admiral Dan Gallery: The Life and Wit of a Navy Original. Although he has written many things since, Dr. Gilliland is always proud that his very first appearance in public print was a letter to John Campbell published in Astounding magazine. He is also a member of the board for the Robert A. Heinlein Award, given annually to a science fiction writer whose work has inspired exploration of space. Dr. Gilliland was appointed by The Heinlein Society board of directors to fill a vacancy in 2015, and elected by the membership to a three year term later in 2015. He was re-elected to a second three year term in 2018, and was chosen by the Board of Directors to be Vice President – Secretary in the same year. He was appointed Chair of the Academic Committee and Editor-in-Chief of The Heinlein Journal in 2020.

Fair winds and following seas, Herb. You will be missed!

07/22/2026

12/16/2025

We're downsizing the Western Americana section a bit.

12/11/2025

Looking for a gift for the history buff?
All of our Montana and the West books are 50% off!
Gift certificates are also on sale - a $25 certificate for $20.
(Trade credit will not apply.)

12/04/2025

📚 Empires of The Ancient Near East and Empires of Early Latin America – A 7-book slipcased collection
This captivating collection explores the rise, legacy, and cultural brilliance of seven ancient empires that shaped human civilization. From the monumental pyramids of Egypt to the grand cities of the Maya, each volume offers a window into the politics, beliefs, innovations, and achievements of history’s most influential civilizations. Perfect for history enthusiasts, students, and curious minds alike.

🌍 Civilizations at a Glance:
Maya
Flourishing in Mesoamerica, the Maya were masters of astronomy, mathematics, and writing. They built magnificent city-states like Tikal and Palenque and developed a complex calendar system and vivid mythology.

Aztecs
Centered in Central Mexico, the Aztec Empire was marked by powerful military conquests, intricate religious ceremonies, and the grand city of Tenochtitlan, built on a lake. Their legacy continues in modern Mexican culture.

Incas
Ruling over the Andes in South America, the Incas engineered an incredible network of roads, bridges, and agricultural terraces. Cities like Cusco and Machu Picchu stand as testaments to their ingenuity.

Babylonians
An influential civilization in Mesopotamia, the Babylonians introduced one of the first legal codes—Hammurabi’s Code—and made remarkable advances in astronomy, mathematics, and literature.

Hittites
An Indo-European people of Anatolia, the Hittites were formidable warriors and early users of iron. They engaged in diplomacy and warfare with both Egypt and Mesopotamia during the Bronze Age.

Egyptians
One of the longest-lasting civilizations in history, ancient Egypt was centered on the Nile. Renowned for its pyramids, pharaohs, and hieroglyphs, Egypt left a monumental cultural legacy.

Persians
The Achaemenid Persian Empire was one of the largest the world has ever seen. Known for efficient administration, royal roads, and a policy of cultural tolerance, it connected vast regions from the Mediterranean to India.
(This description was written by the European Bookshelf)

11/28/2025

Our annual Christmas Special starts today.
$20 for a $25 gift certificate.