Book Description

Jesse James was a fabled outlaw, a charismatic, spiritual, larger-than-life bad man whose bloody exploits captured the imagination and admiration of a nation hungry for antiheroes. Robert Ford was a young upstart torn between dedicated worship and murderous jealousy, the "dirty little coward" who coveted Jesse's legend. The powerful, strange, and unforgettable story of their interweaving paths—and twin destinies that would collide in a rain of blood and betrayal—is a story of America in all her rough, conflicted glory and the myths that made her.

Customer Reviews (1)

A Fantastic Western
I heard of the book through the film adaptation, and was amazed of the story that Hansen brought to readers. He does a fantastic job bring the old days of the American Wild West . Hansen shows the live of Jesse and his nature and the jealousy of Robert Ford. Hansen makes Ford appear timid at first but has him evolve into a dangerous mastermind.

This book is great for western readers and those who enloy novels that have been turned into feature films.

PARTY ON, DUDES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ... Read more

Book Description
Hansen re-creates the real West with his imaginative telling of the life of the most famous outlaw of them all, Jesse James, and of his death at the hands of the upstart Robert Ford. James, a charismatic, superstitious, and moody man, holds sway over a ragged gang who fear his temper and quick shooting. Robert Ford, a young gang member torn between worshipping Jesse and taking his place, guns him down in cold blood and lives out his days tormented by the killing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Those who live by the sword........
....die by the sword. Or gun. Or treachery. That is an over simplistic way of looking at this book, but it gets the message across. There are several ways to determine if a man is a "legend"....one is that at least some people think of him as a fictional character...another is the sighting of him alive after he's dead. Jesse Woodson James was indeed real, and he did indeed die on April 3, 1882, shot from behind by a coward named Bob Ford. He was sighted "alive" as late as 1951, but that's either rubbish, or mistaking son for father. I certainly have an interest in the topic; my wife is a direct descendent of Captain George Todd, company commander of Jesse, and several of the gang, during the Civil War. Our son will be happy to tell you about it.

I suppose that this novel is more a character study than a straight history. Of course, it only claims to be a novel. Starting in 1865, we get a look at the last 17 years of Jesse, then we continue with the last 10 of Bob. We see the life of crime, the damage done, the women who stood by criminals. Jesse James certainly has brains, courage, strength of character, and even a certain nobility. Of course, he put his God-given talents to some very questionable uses. Bob Ford may have had brains, but the rest of Jesse's good points were WAY beyond him. Jesse, Bob, and all the others...Frank, Cole, both Zereldas, Dick...come to life. The author means for us to see them as real people, the mixture of good, bad, and indifferent, common to humanity; he succeeds. Still, he never attempts to fathom just why Jesse went the way he did...maybe, only God knows that.

On the whole, I can recommend this book...the writing is a bit stilted, the detail a bit too verbose...still, it's worth your time. If you REALLY want to know about Jesse, try "Jesse JamesLast Rebel of the Civil War" by T.J. Stiles. That book IS history, it covers cradle [and before] to grave, and is a lot better written...it even goes into motivation. Of course, there is a whole further area of speculation about Jesse's career...gold, Indians, the Masons, Albert Pike, the next Civil War...that is beyond the scope here. Overall, four stars is about right...

Absorbing and obscure
A tapestry of fact and fiction, recounting the last years of James' life and the entirety of Ford's. The prose in this is amazing, dense-packed and grimly poetic, an unsentimental depiction of hard lives and moments of lyrical beauty. The experience of reading the text was so thoroughly absorbing, impossible to skim through, that it almost made me overlook the feeling I had afterwards of not really having much more insight into James and Ford as characters by book's end than I did at the start.

Hansen's James is a force of nature, beyond good or evil or human judgement, a tyrant and a child, cruel and kind. "Rooms seemed hotter when he was in them, rains fell straighter, clocks slowed, sounds were amplified: his enemies would not have been much surprised if he produced horned owls from beer bottles or made candles out of his fingers." A great character, yes, but it's hard to get at the heart of such a cipher. Hansen's Ford is even more obscure - although Ford is the other half to this story and a poignant lost-boy figure, the way he's presented here is almost a cliche, an overlooked child crying for attention in a society which seems to reward infamy. All of this, by the way, is clear from the first few chapters - Hansen doesn't seem to really move beyond these ideas, never reveals more about who *he* thinks these men were.

But, you know, I can forgive a lot when the man writes like this. "No one talked as Jesse moved - it was as if his acts were miracles of invention wondrous to behold. Martha stared at Jesse as she cooked, Ida was moonstruck as she set down another dish, Charley and Wilbur grinned gregariously whenever his eyes floated near." Beautiful.

Wonderful Blend of History and Narrative
Ron Hansen's book relies extensively on archival research of newspaper accounts, courtroom accounts, and memoirs, all of which contribute to this intelliegent, exceptionally well-written tale of the death of Jesse James.Focusing on the individuals involved, as opposed to the deeds of the James gang, although these are described as required by the narrative, this book develops an understanding of the personal dynamics at work in the undoing of the great Jesse James.A gripping and ultimately satisfying read, The Assassination of Jesse James is a must-read for anyone with interest in the old west.

One of the two best Western novels ever
I agree with the reviewers who laud Mr. Hansen's superb novel and give it five stars. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is sprawling and precise, Shakespeare out of Camus crossed with Peckinpah. I don't think that the book is too detailed or slow, as one reader reports. I think that the detail helps make the book what it is: An absolutely convincing account of the men and the times, taut all the way, and not romanticized. In my opinion, there are two great novels of the American West that transcend the genre and become real literature:Elizabeth Fackler's "Billy The Kid: The Legend of El Chivato," and this novel about Jesse James and Bob Ford by Mr. Hansen.

Superb prose, but too much of a good thing?
Hansen is an exemplary wordsmith and this is a wonderfully written book.Steeped in vivid detail and obviously painstaking research, it'senlightening and informative. If it fails at all its in its excesses. Canthere be too much detail? Too deep an examination of the people and eventssurrounding the principal players? Unfortunately the answer is"yes," and those excesses make this book a tough, slow read. Thefine quality of the writing, however, will certainly make up for some ofthe lapses in storytelling for many readers, especially those with higherliterary standards. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Probably no American outlaw has attracted more attention--much of it flattering--than Jesse James. This revisionist biography by T.J. Stiles delves into the exciting life James led--"a tale of ambushes, gun battles, and daring raids, of narrow escapes, betrayals, and revenge." Yet it also places James within a specific political context, showing why it was possible for this murderous bandit to emerge as a folk hero among Southern sympathizers following the Civil War (in which he fought as a teenager). James is often grouped with famous frontier criminals like Billy the Kidd and Butch Cassidy, but he's best understood as a Southerner who forged partisan alliances in postwar Missouri and promoted himself as a latter-day Robin Hood. Stiles describes James as "a foul-mouthed killer who hated as fiercely as anyone on the planet" and places his life in the context of "the struggle for--or rather, against--black freedom." Stiles's fundamental point about James is as startling as it is convincing: "In his political consciousness and close alliance with a propagandist and power broker, in his efforts to win media attention with his crimes ... Jesse James was a forerunner of the modern terrorist." Tough words, but also deserved. --John J. Miller Book Description
In this brilliant biography T. J. Stiles offers a new understanding of the legendary outlaw Jesse James.Although he has often been portrayed as a Robin Hood of the old west, in this ground-breaking work Stiles places James within the context of the bloody conflicts of the Civil War to reveal a much more complicated and significant figure.

Raised in a fiercely pro-slavery household in bitterly divided Misssouri, at age sixteen James became a bushwhacker, one of the savage Confederate guerrillas that terrorized the border states.After the end of the war, James continued his campaign of robbery and murder into the brutal era of reconstruction, when his reckless daring, his partisan pronouncements, and his alliance with the sympathetic editor John Newman Edwards placed him squarely at the forefront of the former Confederates’ bid to recapture political power.With meticulous research and vivid accounts of the dramatic adventures of the famous gunman, T. J. Stiles shows how he resembles not the apolitical hero of legend, but rather a figure ready to use violence to command attention for a political cause—in many ways, a forerunner of the modern terrorist. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (49)

Historical perspective
This book explains how the Civil War gave birth to outlaws like Jesse James.It is very well researched, detailed and interesting.A must for historians.

Interesting political take on Jesse James

This is a fascinating work on Jesse James.It is not so much a standard biography as a "political history" of James.And that makes this an interesting read. The question animating this book is (page4): "Why should one set of criminals be so much more memorable than another?" The answer (page 6): " [Jesse James] was a major force in the attempt to create a Confederate identity for Missouri, a political and cultural offensive waged by the defeated rebels to undo the triumph of the Radical Republicans in the Civil War."Hence, his Confederate background resonated strongly with the politics of Missouri.

The book itself follows a chronological organization, beginning with Jesse's father, a preacher. It also describes his mother, a most formidable person, who remained an important part of his life over the years--and a strong advocate for her sons. The Civil War was critical for the family.Frank James rode with some of the Confederate irregulars, such as William Quantrill and Bloody Bill Anderson.Jesse was too young at the outset of the Civil War to be involved, but he rode with his brother, later on, with the partisans.When the war ended, the rage continued for the James brothers (especially Jesse).

The book contends (and it is a reasonable case as made by the author, although I'm not sure that all readers will be convinced) that James' outlaw exploits after the war were a continuation of that conflict by other means.He was, in the eyes of the author, something of a guerilla; he is also termed a "terrorist," in the sense of using violence to try to advance a political cause (this case may not be convincing to readers; I have my doubts that the case is very strong to adopt this language).

There follows an outline of his many robberies, the violence associated with them, the various members of his gang over time (including the Younger brothers), the ups and downs of their brigandage, and the political context in which their actions occurred.The political discussion appears to be done pretty well, placing the James' gang's depredations in a larger perspective.

Then, they detail nicely the disastrous Northfield, Minnesota raid (disastrous from the James' gang's perspective--not from those who wanted to hunt them down).Frank and Jesse escaped, Jesse (and later Frank) to rob another day.Then, Jesse's demise.The book ends with a quick summary of the fates of key players from this volume, and provides some satisfaction inbringing things to a close.

The political aspect to James, as argued by T. J. Stiles, the author, is very interesting and makes this an intriguing work.I am not sure that all elements of this work successfully (e.g., the use of the term terrorist).But the book provides a nice spin on the life and times of Jesse James.

It's really not a bio
I picked this book up, like everyone else, as I was curious about the man behind the legend. Well, I never really learned all that much about Jesse James. I certainly learned about Missouri, Kansas, the civil war, bushwackers and the like, but not a whole lot about James.

It seemed well researched and Stiles writes in a readable style but it was not the book I thought it would be.

Excellent Biography of an interesting time and man
Jesse James has led a life that is shrouded in mystery. Stiles tries to put a perceptive that shows him as carrying on the civil war and fighting the style against the industrialized north that was popular at the time.It is an interesting biography and takes several different perspectives that are hard to find. There are few good James biographies out there and this is basically the best.For those looking for more on the outlaw group there are several about the whole gang but for those who just want one book about the robbers this is by far the best choice. It is thorough and gives enough information without being overbearing.Highly recommend for any civil war library as well.

Well written, but light on Jesse James
Stiles' book is a well written, well researched, and informative exploration of violence in Missouri in the Civil War era. The biggest problem, however, is that only the last few chapters focus on Jesse James. Because James did not leave behind many documents detailing his actions and motivations, Stiles provides lengthy context about the political and social environment in which James lived. Far too much context, in my opinion. The focus of his book is often far away from James's and his gang's actions. Although a historical figure cannot be divorced from the context of his/her times, a historian should not stray too far from the central figure of a biography. A more accurate titleof this book would be "Jesse James's Missouri." Page after page passes with little or no reference to James or his gang. Only after Reconstruction ends does the author focus on Jesse and his crimes.
Stiles faces a problem in convincing the reader that Jesse was a diehard Confederate. Although James came from a slaveholding family and seemed to have no sympathy toward Yankees and Northern Reconstruction policies, James's Confederate identity seemed the brainchild of his greatest defender, the newspaper man John Edwards. Stiles provides little information about James's racial views, which were central to Confederate and post-war Southern politics. Although James no doubt shared the racist convictions of his day, he seemed to act with no clear idea of how his crimes would undermine Republican political aims: civil rights legislation and fiscal/state activism. Since Missouri was never officially a Confederate state, it was not occupied in the way the Deep South states were. Nor was there a large black population in Missouri. James seemed not to have directed attacks at black men or women or their white Republican allies, the people who were the targest of ex-Confederate violence in other states. Many of James's victims were Unionists. Although Unionists certainly were not liked by Confederates, James lived in a very different environment than say, South Carolina, where one's Unionist past was less important than the color of one's skin. One should also be very cautious of Stiles labeling James a "terrorist." Although there are some similarities between nineteenth century bushwhackers and present-day terrorists, the term bushwhacker or bandit for James and his gang seems sufficient. ... Read more

Book Description
To some, Jesse James was a Robin Hood, a mythic figure of righteous retribution. To others he was the devil incarnate, a bloodthirsty hooligan, and cold-blooded killer. The disparity between these views is often attributed to an almost invisible link between the marauding Missouri guerrilla bands of the Civil War and the general lawlessness that plagued the Old West.

For more than twenty-five years Ted Yeatman combed through the National Archives, the Library of Congress, and numerous historical societies and private collections—including those of many James family members and Jesse's great grandson—to produce this thorough examination of the careers of Frank and Jesse James. The result is a complete account of the James brothers during the Civil War, their sixteen years of notoriety, and the lives of those who outlived Jesse.

In 1866 the legend of the James brothers began with the first successful peacetime daylight bank robbery. It ended in 1882, when Jesse was killed by Bob and Charlie Ford while the three of them planned the robbery of the Platte City Bank. The fact that former gang members turned on Jesse later led Frank to surrender voluntarily to the governor of Missouri and face a trial. He was never convicted.

Ted Yeatman has created a thoroughly documented narrative that will be satisfying both to readers who know little about the James brothers and those who have read everything in print about them. Also included are dozens of heretofore unpublished illustrations and photographs of the people, places, and artifacts associated with the notorious James bandits. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Riveting, Yeatman puts us in the saddle
This is high-quality 19th century history that captures the tension with which the James brothers lived. It places the reader in Frank and Jesse's historical and geographical context. Above all, it is fair. Yeatman lets the reader decide. Frank emerged as particularly complex, because he was able to straddle the life of a respectable taxpayer and a dangerous outlaw.

This work is particularly poignant, because of current U.S. debates about government spying, habeas corpus, posse comitatus and many other issues that matter as much today, as they did in the days leading up to the Civil War and Reconstruction.

Yeatman's handling of the James brothers Civil War material is particularly deft.

Yeatman's work is filled with numerous historical gems, such as Bess Truman's family's connection to the James brothers; Phil Sheridan's connection to the bombing of the James Sammeul home.

Difficult to swallo
I have to agree with some of the reviews of Mr. Yeatman's book.
This is extremely poorly written.If I had wanted to read a Civil War recantation, I'd go back and re-read the many in my library.
While some of the historical references during that period may be necessary background for the James family, more often times than not, in this book, the author flies off on a tangent leaving the reader wondering "what happened?"
Trying to muddle through this book is like wandering through a blizzard.There are moments when the snow clears, only to be shrouded again moments later.
Where were the editors?A fascinating subject that has been sadly botched by this effort in my humble opinion.

An fascinating topic made dull
That any reviewer can grant this book five stars, as some here have, boggles the mind.I have to seriously ask them what books they read that they consider this one worthy of such a high rating.Yes, the subject of the James boys is inherently fascinating and, yes, Ted Yeatman's research was extensive, which is worth one extra star, but as a writer he failed to present his material in an interesting fashion.First, he is too much in love with facts and uses them whether they are necessary or not.(I do not need to know, as just one example, the name of every insignificant Missouri militia outfit that ever marched in the same county as the James boys unless that name is relevant to them.Footnotes would have been a better location if Yeatman felt compelled to include this arcane data.)Another reason the narrative bogs down is that Yeatman failed to heed his word processor's grammar checker when it pointed out the thousands of passive sentences he wrote.Or perhaps he had that feature turned off.If so, he should flick it back on immediately.Lastly, a good writer spins out a narrative that flows like water.Yeatman's jumbled writing contains too many icebergs the reader must dodge or sink in the process.

I am not yet finished reading it and am not certain that I can continue to the end much as I want to learn about the James boys.What a shame.Bad writing made this book a great waste of the author's extensive knowledge.I fail to understand why Cumberland House published this book without extensive editing or not publish it at all.Obviously, they thought the subject material would carry it.

HISTORY AT IT'S BEST
Ralph P. Ganis, a James Gang Historian and Author, July 25, 2000, HISTORY AT IT'S BEST

Here's a toast to Historian Ted Yeatman who has given America the finest history of the James Gang to date. This book is a must for any student or enthusiast of America's outlaw brothers. The book reads well and the facts are presented in an excellent manner. My library on James Gang books includes more than 50 titles and Mr. Yeatman's book would be my #1 choice for accuracy. As a James Gang historian, I strongly recommend Frank and Jesse James: The Story Behind the Legend.

Great book!No glitz and hollywood hype, just historical facts!
If you want a glitzy Hollywood-type novel on the James Gang, then rent one of the many historically inaccurate movies available (such as American Outlaws, etc.). This book is not for the James Gang novice. If you want a basic book on the James Gang just to get your feet wet on the subject, then this book is way too advanced for you, so look elsewhere. But if you're interested in the real, in-depth history of the Gang, then this book is a must have! It is not a novel - it is a historical source book. Written by a true historian for people that want the truthful history! ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Jesse James was a fabled outlaw, a charismatic, spiritual, larger-than-life bad man whose bloody exploits captured the imagination and admiration of a nation hungry for antiheroes. Robert Ford was a young upstart nobody torn between dedicated worship and murderous jealousy, the "dirty little coward" who coveted Jesse's legend. The powerful, strange, and unforgettable story of their interweaving paths—and twin destinies that would collide in a rain of blood and betrayal—is a story of America in all her rough, conflicted glory and the myths that made her.

Customer Reviews (2)

Marvelously well-written and conceived
An old university friend who taught creative writing told me about this book several years ago. I'd never heard of Hansen, but once I started this I couldn't put it down, and I've made a point of finding and reading every new thing he writes. Every one of Hansen's books is different, he doesn't stick with a particular "type" when it comes to his fiction.

I told friends about this book, and those who read it were blown away with the way this story is told. I was never so glad that a book was reprinted as when this one came out. I bought several copies and sent them to friends.

Check it out
Okay, the story has been told better, but having studied this, I can assure that Hansen has captured the dialog perfectly.I am reviewing this obscure work because few books have captured period dialog better.Enjoy. ... Read more

Book Description
He's a welder and a gearhead, a tattooed wiseguy, and stone-cold TV star. Jesse James works with his hands, making custom motorcycles for big spenders who like their choppers loud and built from the groundup. James got famous as the host of TV's Monster Garage and Motorcycle Mania, but it all begins at his West Coast Choppers factory in Long Beach, California, where James and his crew piece together these epic handmade machines, welding and sculpting an array of gleaming pipes and fenders from scratch and polishing every detail right down to the magnum shell casings that decorate West Coast gas caps. The bikes are fast, but building each one is a year-long process, and the waiting list is long. Jesse James (named for the Old West outlaw and distant cousin) is a one-time juvenile delinquent who became an international pop culture phenomenon, a grease monkey superhero with a blowtorch, and an impossible success story that began in his mother's garage in 1993. He does it now for both love (of his machines and their aluminum engines) and money: He has a giant $100 bill tattooed across his back, and the words "Pay up, sucker!" written in the palm of one hand. He's not joking. In Jesse James and His Beautiful Machines, photographer Nathaniel Welch documents that life and every step of the creative process in a collection of elegant, grease-stained portraits of people and the motorcycles they create—the welding, sandblasting, painting, fueling—and of James himself roaring along some Long Beach highway on one of his beautiful machines. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Pretty pictures, not much else...
This is a large book with page after page of stunning black & white photography.As much as I love great shots of cool bikes and thier builders, I was a bit dissapointed with this book.This is proabably my own mistake for not reading the book summary close enough.I was expecting something more like 'Jesse James, the Man and His Machines'; a book with tons of great photos but also some writing on the man, his builds, and his process.I thought a new book would have more updated writing from everything that has changed in the last few years since that other book was published.Not so... little verbage other than introduction, photo index in the back, and 4 page blurb by Steve Appleford.Those 4 pages offer some interesting insights, but dosen't quite save the book.
So if you're looking for something to 'read' abot Jesse James, try the afore-mentioned book.This photo book will end up with beer bottle rings on the cover as it sits on my coffee table.
Oh, by the way, for one last kick in the pants; "Printed and Bound in CHINA" is slapped on the back cover. Go figure. ... Read more

Book Description
Orignally published in 1882, just months after Jesse's deathg, Triplett's book has been a matter of controversy ever since. The present edition includes an introduction and editorial contributions by the distinguished historian of the West, Joseph Snell. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Hype meets History
This book was written during the post-assasination hype following Jesse James' death. The author claims to have gotten much of his material from Jesse's wife and mother. They deny they contributed yet apparently did receive royalties. The author writes a good story and quotes many good first-hand sources, though make allowances for hype-driven inaccuracies. It's good reading. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Of Questionable Value
I am being charitable to have given this book a 1 rating. If you want a reliable book, try to find BACKGROUND OF A BANDIT: THE ANCESTRY OF JESSE JAMES by Joan M. Beamis and William E. Pullen. Otherwise this will have to do. Steele's book has a chapter on the "Tennessee James Family" that should be taken with a barrel of salt. There are plenty of James families scattered across the country, but it's a subject of question as to whether there is any relationship with Jesse James of Missouri. I have heard that the errata in this particular book would be substantial.

Jesse And Frank James:The Family History
This is an execellent resource book for James family researchers. All background information appears in order. Very detailed and full of family knowledge. A book worth investing in for any James Family historian. ... Read more

Book Description
On the surface, with his collection of skulls, pet sharks, pit bulls, and tattoos, Jesse James is the consummate motorcycle outlaw. Some of this comes naturally - after all, his great-great-grandfather was the famous outlaw's cousin. But this image is only a small part of Jesse James' persona. There's also his passion as an artisan and his success at custom building bikes (chronicled in Discover Channels video productions Motorcycle Mania and Motorcycle Mania 2). Now Jesse puts his talents to good use as the master builder in the popular new Discovery Channel series Monster Garage. This book chronicles James' meteoric rise to stardom, with an emphasis on his current celebrity. It includes information about the popular Motorcycle Mania documentaries (two of the three highest-rated shows ever to air on the Discovery Channel) as well as James' hit television series Monster Garage, the most popular program on cable television. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

the book stands on it's own - doesn't need the jesse stamp
c'mon outlaw, stop whining...

your marketing machine is impressive, but your fans realize there is more than the fun-but-shallow spin seen on tv.

Bizzare reviews of a great book
I just discovered the "write a review" feature on Amazon and have been going through reviews of books I've read in the past year. The reviews of this book are completely mental. It is a great book. If anything, it makes Jesse look too good. I was hoping for a bit more dirt about his marriages and divorces and other stuff. But it is still very interesting, with great photography. For the life of me I can't figure out why Jesse hates it so much.

It's all here - history, atmosphere, bikes, pictures, story
Maybe this was an "unauthorized" biography, but it's darned good.We get insight into how Jesse learned his craft, who he studied under and where he worked prior to starting his own shop.Jesse dreamt of having his own shop ever since he was a young boy, and this is a decent tale about how it came to be.

There are lots of pictures (the book is about 50% pictures, and 50% text).We gain insight into his parts business, the custom bikes, and Jesse's evolving aesthetic.

There is a section devoted to the recent Monster Garage work, and a section about Jesse's team, and what it's like to work with him.

I gather that "Jesse James Inc." is angry that this book was published without his permission, probably because he doesn't get a cut of the proceeds. Too bad for them.This is an interesting read.I'm sure the style mavens a WCC would want to project pure image, whereas this book is much more honest and human, and gives the reader some real insight into the man and his team.

Highly recommended.

Good book, whether it is "official" or not!
This book is well written, filled with great photos, and is very fair.Frankly, I don't know what the fuss is about!Did Jesse not get offered a big enough cut? LOL
I respect Jesse a great deal, and have found in him a great role model and inspiration, since I want to become a bike builder myself.This book was cool because it cut through James' public bad-ass persona and showed the side of him that I admire: a perfectionist craftsman, a genius marketer, and a tireless worker.It is fascinating to read how this guy came from meager means to become a world hero of cult proportions.If I was Jesse, I'd be flattered by this book.But as I said before, it probably comes down to money, and who got what.

If you are a true MG/WCC/Jesse James Fan
If you are a true fan, you will not support Mike Seate by purchasing this book. Jesse James, himself, has come out and publicly stated that he did not authorize this book. Mike Seate violated and abused a friendship. If you are a decent upstanding person with good morals and high standards, you will not purchase this book. ... Read more

Book Description
Jesse and Frank James were household names long before images of America's most wanted were televised. For several decades after the Civil War, they were hunted by hundreds who supposed them to be involved in every bank and train robbery in the Midwest. Trained as guerrilla fighters in the border conflict between Kansas and Missouri, they joined with the Younger brothers in February 1866 to rob a bank in Liberty, Missouri. That was the beginning of a criminal confederation that seemed beyond the reach of the law until the Northfield, Minnesota, raid killed three of them and sent the James brothers into hiding. But they were the objects of posted rewards that proved too tempting in Jesse's case: in 1882 he was shot in the back by Robert Ford of his own gang.The Rise and Fall of Jesse James, by Robertus Love, a newspaperman who knew Frank James, is a pioneering work that plumbs the personalities of the outlaws, looks at their domestic lives, cites many stories about them, and attempts to separate fact from legend in tracking their violent operations.Michael Fellman assesses Love's 1926 book in his introduction to this Bison Books edition. He is a professor of history at Simon Fraser University and the author of Inside War: The Guerrilla Conflict in Missouri during the Civil War (1989). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

James H Johnston
Does anybody know anything about my grandfather, James H. Johnston, prosecuting attorney for Cooper County, MO whopresided in the trial of Hobbs Kerry in the Otterville train robbery in 1882 or there about?Hobbs Kerry was the only gang member caught in the assault.Your feedback will be greatly appreciated.

A True Western Classic.
Countless books have been written about the outlaw Jesse James and his brother Frank over the last 120 years. This is one of the best. Robertus Love knew Frank James, and also knew some of the bandits who rode with Jesse and the eyewitnesses who saw the crimes. This book, written in the 1920's, was the first attempt at an honest biography of Jesse. It still holds up after 80 years. Love has the ability to take the reader back in time to those wild days of the Old West. While some of his stories are more legend than history, this book is still a great read and essential reading for anyone with an interest in our country's most famous outlaw.

Exciting!
A well-written account of outlaw Jesse James's life featuring such colorful characters as the Youngers.Full of interesting facts (did you know Jesse was wounded during the Civil War)? ... Read more

Book Description
Confederate guerrilla.Bank robber.Cold-blooded killer.Jesse James was all of these, but still, most of his life remains a mystery.Now Marley Brant, author of the acclaimed biography The Outlaw Youngers, sets the record straight, painting a portrait of a man obsessed with rebellion, loyalty, and an irrepressible need to be known.He loved as intensely as he hated.And in his eyes, the war between the states would never be over.From his obscure childhood to his explosive career during the Civil War to his earning the reputation as the country's most notorious bandit, Jesse James brings you the facts and dispels the fiction.Once and for all, we can finally know the man and the myth.* Includes rare photos from the James family archives* There are many myths and misconceptions about Jesse James-this book sets the record straight and is the most up-to-date book on the subject* The author's first book, The Outlaw Youngers, drew rave reviews from the Los Angeles Times, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and others ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

jesse james
a little wordy in the second chapter, but it is finally understand able why jesse and frank james reacted to their family and defending what they believed in.loving their family and what is good.hating what was not right in their eyes.

Jesse James: The Man and the Myth
Apparently, Hollywood paid Brant to do research for a movie on the Younger Brothers. Without a doubt, the research overlapped to the James brothers. For the first ¾ of the book, she does a fare job of exposing the myths & must have tired because she took the last quarter to reiterate the dime store versions of history.

I question not so much of what was written, conversely what was left out of the book that would eliminate the absolutes is disturbing.

Fact or Fiction?
I did not check up on the source of references for this book, but I really enjoyed the reading! It was the most interesting factual book I have read in a long time. I thought the Author was very clear on the instances that were tall tales and what not. So over all, if your interested in a spicey history such as Jesse James, I highly recommend this book.

Excellent Research and Lively Reading
This is an extraordinary book!
As a Civil War buff in years past, I was particularly drawn to historical biographies.In recent years, I have developed a keen interest in the Post Civil War and Outlaw periods.I've visited many historical sites, museums and the like.I've heard lectures and had conversations with on-site historians, academic pros and other enthusiasts.When the subject was JESSE JAMES, virtually all of them spoke highly of this book and considered it a "must read."That's what led me to buy the book.I am amazed at the depth of the research, much of it painstakingly conducted first hand.It is unusual to see such a strong mix of documentation -- archived legal papers, state records, historical first hand accounts, family accounts and so on -- gathered in such a logical, readable format.Events are well chronicled and presented in an engaging manner.Conclusions are both logical and thought provoking.To use a cliché (as I am definitely not a writer/biographer!) I found myself reluctant to put it down.Rarely have I experienced such pleasure in getting to know an important historical figure, their times and the forces that would drive their destiny.I can personally recommend "Jesse James" to anyone seeking scholarly knowledge of the man and his times.Jesse's remarkable personal story truly comes alive in this engaging, artfully presented and very well written book.I now look forward to reading more of Ms. Brant's books -- for knowledge AND pleasure!

Erring on the side of legend
Marley Brant is perhaps better known for her book on the Younger brother, partners in crime with Jesse James and his brother Frank. There have been literally dozens of books on the story, and one might legitimately ask, why another one? I opened the book to pages 58-59 and immediately found the apocryphal story of the alleged attack on the farm outside Kearney, Mo. where Jesse was born, which supposedly occurred in February 1867, presented as fact. I checked the source, note #4, Chapt. 6, on page 274, and found it to be I, JESSE JAMES, a work of historical fiction by Jesses great-grandson. In his book, JESSE JAMES WAS HIS NAME, by William Settle, one of the few reliable accounts, this yarn is debunked, in note 34, page 210 by Robert James, Frank James' son. It appeared in the mythmaking writings of John Newman Edwards, the father of the James myth, in the 1870's. I would have given this book a four star rating, but for things like this. The book in in fact rather dated, in light of more recent scholarship. The fact that it came out somewhat after
the 1996 DNA testing on the remains of Jesse James and spate of cable documentaries about same, and was only published in paperback, indicates that it was probably intended to cash in on the backwash of interest generated by the media. Brant went on to write a book about Southern rock music. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (4)

More of a Report Than a Book
While Settle's account is thorough and well-documented, it reads more like a research paper than a book, as it really doesn't tell a story, so much as parade a litany of facts before the reader. The facts are occasionally interesting in and of themselves, but we don't come away with any real feeling of of the human being who was Jesse James.

I believe Settle is, or was a professor at some college. If he's still teaching it might be best to avoid his class, especially if it's offered early in the morning or right after lunch for reasons that will become readily apparent to his readers.

Jesse James
Even today, in the year 2002, it's hard to find any American who hasn't heard the name Jesse James. All types of wild stories have been passed through the years about him, some saying he was nothing more than a cold blooded killer and some swearing he was more like Robin Hood. In William Settle's book, "Jesse James Was His Name", he chronicalizes the events of Jesse's life starting with his boyhood home on a farm in Missouri, through the bloody years of the Civil War where he fought in Confederate guerrilla bands, and then on to his outlaw career.
The book, in my opinion, was too lengthy, it was full of facts a lot of which were unnecessary, and it didn't flow very well. So as Jesse James himself was an exciting person, this book was far from it. If you want to find more about Jesse James, don't read this book.

Solid research without solid conclusions
The research in the book seems to be first-rate. However the author doesn't seem to present the information in a way that leads to the the implied conclusions. He gives information on various robberies, implyingthey were conducted by the James/Younger gang, but the information doesn'tsupport the conclusion--I wouldn't convict them based on the infopresented. In fact, I was left leaning far more toward the James' andYoungers' own statements that they _weren't_ involved in most of theserobberies and were convenient victims of post-war, anti-Quantillsentiments. Evidence of the James/Youngers' guilt struck me as being rathershoddy. Sorting out which robberies really could be attributed to whom islargely left to the reader.

Though well worth reading, I would view thisbook as a suppliment to other reading and research rather than the sole,final statement on the events.

Fact - no fiction allowed - about Jesse James
Author Settle (true name:Dr. Robert Parker) was a college history professor from Oklahoma who spent 20+ years researching his subject - the notorious James Brothers of Missouri.His book, first published in 1961, stillstands as the resource work in the "Jesse James" field. A historian, Settle refused to use or dwell upon anything except fact when dealing with his material.His research included developing a friendship with Frank James' only son, Robert - who lived on the James brothers' Missouri farm until his death in the 1950's.Settle leaned on family history, but primarily used grass roots documentation in reporting all of he known facts - through the time of publication. His work is the most often cited reference used by current authors.His research and book opened the way for the current boom of writers and researchers in the field of the James Gang. Nicely written and easy to read, the book not only discusses the family history and known criminal activities of Jesse and Frank, but tells how and why Jesse James - a known murderer and thief - has crept into legend as a hero. If you are interested in outlaw and lawman history of the Old West, this book is a "must". ... Read more

Product Description
Ron Hansen re-creates the real West with his imaginative telling of the life of the most famous outlaw of them all, Jesse James, and of his death at the hands of the upstart Robert Ford. James, a charismatic, superstitious, and moody man, holds sway over a ragged gang who fear his temper and quick shooting. Robert Ford, a young gang member torn between worshiping Jesse and taking his place, guns him down in cold blood and lives out his days tormented by the killing. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Looked forward to every page
The first thing I noticed while reading this book was that there were no lulls in the action.It seems that every part of Jesse's short life was exciting.The author at times makes Jesse out to be almost a saint, but itdoesn't interfere with quality of the information that he has provided.

This is one of the very best books on Jesse James.
I found this book in Arizona, of all places.It's one of those books that is hard to put down once you start reading it.I have read alot of booksabout Jesse James but this is one of the very best.I highly recommend it.

Fascinating novel from a James family member's perspective.
Interesting perspective from a family descendant of one of the most enduring western myths. This treatment recounts family legend and an inside psychological look of a mythical legend who actually existed, not only, asa western hero, but also as a , father, grandfather and great grandfather.Interesting insights on Jesse's fear of death and acceptance of hisinevitable fate, his constant search for vindication for his actions as anoble cause, and his incongruous beliefs of love of familyand revenge.

A story told from the inside
An excellent book on a well known subject. Judge Ross (Jesse's great grandson) lived much of his life with Jesse Jr. and tells many unknown &interesting stories. A great read. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

$550 for a used copy?
There is no way in the world anyone has actually FOUND this book, let alone read it, so if you've stumbled upon this entry, post something, leave a marker if you will.Because for those in the know, that's what this is all about.There is an entire alternative sub-culture dealing with post-Civil War confederacy and hidden gold, clues and markers in rural areas, and something called Knights of the Circle (or something like that).This book, much of it as I understand it, wrong, deals with the conjecture that there really wasn't a "Jesse James."That was merely a nom-de-crime of a number of southern sympathiser (sp?) criminals.Possibly interesting stuff, but I'll wait for the one hour History Channel show. ... Read more

Book Description
Like his famous relative, Jesse James has captured the imagination of the world. His bad- to-the-bones hand-built choppers with their trademark flames and Maltese cross logos arecoveted by millions and ridden by wealthy motorcycle fanatics like Keanu Reeves andShaquille O'Neal. He's one of People magazine's "Sexiest Men Alive." But, only now, inI Am Jesse James, will his legion of fans get an up-close look at the man and hismachines.

With one hundred and sixty pages of full-color photographs grouped into three sectionscovering his bikes, his shop, West Coast Choppers, and his lifestyle,I Am Jesse James will introduce the gritty, supertalented biker who makes noapologies for who he is and makes no compromises when it comes to the artistry of hisbikes. Tattooed and devilishly handsome, Jesse James is the kind of rebel that manyteenage boys—and grown men—dream about being. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

More balls than bikes
I was a bit disappointed in this book. I did like the bike photos that were shown... not many. Lots of filler of Jesse and his gang posing with guns. What looks like porn stars on the bikes....I would rather just see the bikes man. I don't need to see pictures of Jesse playing tough guy holding a shotgun or burning money. Or his freaking dog dish with the WCC logo on it... my god. It makes you wonder what he is trying to make up for. His bikes are cool. They need to show more of them. And the text is pretty much a joke too... F this and F that. Its like a big kiss up to Jesse as a bike god or something and F the rest of you. If you pay full price for this book, you deserve to get beat down by Jesse.

Custom Harley Davidson Eye Candy
Don't expect any lessons on how to build a custom Harley Davidson. This book is just pure eye candy. Considering that bike magazines are so expensive this book is worth buying for inspiration. As a 'coffee table book' (whatever that means!), it serves its purpose well, which is why I'm giving it 5 Stars.

I'm not really into custom Harleys (As far as H-Ds are concerned I would prefer a Buell X1 Lightning or Sundance Performance Super XR1200) but I appreciate the effort, skill and craftsmanship that goes into each of his bikes. Jesse James is famous because he's the real deal. He can actually do his own metalwork, shaping sheetmetal into a tank or fender, and does his own welding. His style is a bit on the extreme side of things, yet isn't bizzare or cartoonish, which is probably why he's successful.

I bought this book because I wanted to know ... "Who is this guy?" ... "Why is he so famous"? I've created a couple of special edition automobiles ... but why am I not even half as famous? :) We could all learn a bit about marketing, advertising and promotion from Jesse James. If you want to read about Jesse James himself, buy the Mike Seate book "Jesse James, the man and his machines".

Who is the real Jesse James?
I am a big fan of Monster Garage and of Jesse James. I bought this book after reading The Man and His Machines thinking it would provide an insight into who Jesse is and some details about his life and his struggles. The photo's of the bikes are great but I have seen those same photo's over and over again. I expected to see more photo's of Jesse. I also expected it would be a more autobiographical book, not something I needed a magnifying glass to read and finished within the hour. Jesse needs to release a true autobiography. His fans would love it.

What is this thing?
I received this book as a gift, which is the only reason it's not in a trash can right now. People are paying $17 for a bunch of recycled photos, only 40 or so of which portray Jesse James, along with a few hundred words of unreadable text? This is the "authorized" biography? Is the man's life so horrible that no one could write about it? Frankly, this book is an insult to Jesse's fans. If you want to read about Jesse, buy "Jesse James: The Man and His Machines," by Mike Seate.

Kindergarten
This book's title just scream's "kids book" ... This redneck is a moron and his picture book and last review say it all.Any good book is not read "in about an hour".. if you're looking for a biography.. look elsewhere. I saw this book at the checkout in wallmart (if that tells you anything)... and read it while waiting in line.This picture book was meant for inbreeders and morons and I thought it was a good laugh...don't waste your time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A good book, but if you want deatails.....
I borrowed this book out from the library and read it when I was 11, and it was what got me interested in Jesse James. But even for an 11 year old, there just wasn't enough information, that is, if you were or are a curious 11 year old like me. So, I read some other books on him like, Outlaws and Jesse James, by: Marley Brant, both of which i also recommend. But for a child who just wants some background knowledge or doesn't want to get into any gruesome details, this is a good book for them. (personally I think the gruesome details are about the best part, but no nightmares for kids that don't lol) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Best In Series
I've read a number of the biographies in the 'Signature Lives' series. They're all good, and beautifully designed, but 'Jesse james' is the best of the bunch so far. No insult to the author intended, but as I read I kept thinking 'this should be a movie'.

A Real Page Turner
I bought this for my twelve-year-old nephew, who is fascinated with all things Western, and ended up reading it myself. Thought I knew who Jesse James was, mostly from movies, but the author opened my eyes to the real outlaw. This is a gripping, real life story, expertly told. Kids and adults will appreciate the dozens of photos and illustrations. Made me feel like I was there, and I was surpised at how 'modern' the world was, with tabloid celebrities and phonies 'spinning' their stories for our attention. ... Read more