The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

by Ron Hansen

Book Overview

"Recalls the literature of Americana by John Steinbeck, Erskine Caldwell, Willa Cather, and Hamlin Garland . . . Hansen has broadened our perception of the West in much the same way as the best historians . . . and proven himself one of our finest stylists of American historical fiction." --Christian Science Monitor

Bestselling author Ron Hansen recreates the real West with his imaginative telling...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0061120197
• ISBN13: 9780061120190
• Release Date: September 2007
• Publisher: Harper Perennial
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 0.62 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.5" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

American history

This is an interesting book about Jesse James. I bought it after I saw the movie that it was based on. Much of the information about his robberies, assassination and what happened to Robert Ford later seems accurate. I'm very satisfied with this selection and it has perked my interest in this period of United States history.

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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.