"The Deerslayer" is a novel by James Fenimore Cooper, published in 1841. It is the first book in the Leatherstocking Tales series and follows the adventures of the young frontiersman, Natty Bumppo, also known as the Deerslayer. Set in the early 18th century, the story takes place in the wilderness of New York and explores themes of honor, friendship, and the conflict between civilization and nature. The plot centers around the Deerslayer's encounters with Native American tribes and his struggles to navigate the complexities of life on the frontier. As he forms bonds with characters like Judith Hutter, the novel highlights his moral dilemmas and the challenges of living in a world marked by violence and cultural differences.