Jesse James

Children's Literature

There are few outlaws in American history as well known as Jesse James. Born and raised in Missouri just prior to the Civil War, James had strong ties to the state that he maintained throughout his life. He was too young to join the Confederate Army, but was allowed to join a Confederate guerilla group known as "bushwhackers." It is here, some historians believe, that James learned his penchant for violence and where he learned to hate Northerners and northern institutions with such passion. His first bank jobs were designed to strike back at Yankees and their disregard for southern rights. After a disastrous attack on a northern bank, James and his gang turned to robbing trains as a way to strike back at the north. Frisch provides a brief glimpse into James' life, including his gruesome murder by a member of his gang. The author also documents how James has been portrayed both during the height of his exploits and after his death. Black-and-white photos appear throughout, as well as brief asides of well-known characters of the time. This title is part of the "Legends of the West" series. 2006, Creative Education, Ages 9 to 12.
—Danielle Williams