Product 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.Amazon.com Review
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 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (61)

Unmasking The Jesse James Myth
This book will not be popular with pinheads who idolize gangsters and thugs as romantic, swashbuckling heroes.T. J. Stiles has revealed the ugly truth about Jesse James and his partners in crime in this fast moving but well researched book.The details of James' movements and crimes read like a suspense novel and it brings us as close to his personal life as possible without over speculation.The title is somewhat misleading because it gives one the impression that Jesse James was a Civil War soldier which he never was.

Stiles reveals how the Jesse James myth was largely created by newspaper editor, John Edwards, who protrayed James as a Robin Hood who was hounded and unjustly persecuted by Yankee carpetbaggers and radical reconstructionists.Without Edwards' grandiose storytelling and spin, the Jesse James myth falls apart.James admittedly craved this kind of publicity and was as skilled in self-promotion as he was in committing crimes.

James used the post Civil War political turmoil in Missouri to bolster his own image.By identifying himself with disenfranchized former Confederates, he tried to influence Southern Democrats to grant him immunity from his crimes.He played the role as a political hero to his own advantage and was aided by spinmeisters like Edwards.James was perceived by his admirers as the defending hero of a lost cause, the Confederacy.His legend flourished, in large part, because of the anger and resentment of former Confederates over reconstruction which included civil rights laws, empowering former slaves with the right to vote, receive an education, and serve in the army.Stiles clearly demonstrates how disenfranchized Confederates were Jesse James' support base.

Jesse James was barely 18 when the Civil War ended and, in fact, never served in the Civil War as a Confederate soldier.He started his career as a bushwhacker under the tutelage of criminal psychopaths like William Clarke Quantrill, "Bloody" Bill Anderson, and Archie Clement.Bushwhackers rode under the banner of the Confederacy and wrapped themselves in the Confederate flag to give themselves some measure of credibility.They were actually gangsters and thugs who terrorized, robbed, and murdered unarmed civilians who they perceived as yankee sympathizers or who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.Contrary to the myth, the majority of the bushwhackers' victims were not Yankee invaders but native Missourians.

Stiles shatters the myth that James and his fellow outlaws struck businesses that oppressed the traditional farmer.The majority of James' allies werecapitalists who farmed for profit and were integrated into the market system.The James family owned land and slaves and could hardly be considered peasants.Nobody in Missouri saw bank robbery and train robbery as solutions to the plight of the rural farmer.This was a myth which was created later on.

Jesse James' real enemies were not giant corporate entities like banks and railroads but his fellow Missourians who sided with the Union and abolitionists and reconstructionists like Adelbert Ames who wanted to enfranchize former slaves.

Jesse James' foolish admirers who demonize Robert Ford as a coward seem oblivious to the cold blooded murders committed by their hero.This would include a wounded and dazed bank teller, Joseph Heywood, who James shot after Heywood was savagely beaten by James' comrades during a bank robbery.

In the end, Jesse James was a thug and nothing more.The only thing praiseworthy about himwas the daring and skill in which he carried out his crimes and his self-promotion.His sole contribution to society was to help slow the progress of reconstruction in Missouri by using fear and intimidation.As Stiles so adroitly notes, "in many respects, he was the forerunner of the modern terrorist."

Best Book on Jesse James So Far
TJ Stiles brings an academic's depth and seriousness the subject of Jesse James, but, thankfully, his writing has none of the flat, clangy prose typically associated with large academically-driven projects like this. His writing is clear, sophisticated and it has energy.

Stiles' portrayal of James not as a simply an outlaw, but rather a racist motivated to rebel because keeping his family's slaves was an act of class preservation, is not new but it is drawn very convincingly and to a degree not seen before now. His scholarship is impeccable. Beyond this, Stiles paints a fascinating portrait of Missouri in post Civil War America, a placerife with violence, racism and fear. If these were the good old days and Jesse James a kind of Robin Hood, then Thomas Jefferson was the anti-Christ.

Nothern Perspective Ruins a potentially good book
The author uses his position to judge James using 21st century morality.

Example: Some Union soldiers nearly kill James' step-father by hanging him.Jessie, as a teenager witnesses this.The next year, when Jessie is now riding with the rebels they pay a visit to the man, no longer in the Union army, who ordered the near hanging of Jessie's step father and execute the man.
The author goes out of his way to defend the former Union solider as a Non-combatant (any more) and that said killing was therefore unjustifiable.

I'm sorry.Just because the Unionist was no longer in the military doesn't protect him from the form of "street justice" which even today exists on America's cities and in the country.

I suspect this guy is just an academic who doesn't know how the real world operates.

JJ and the Gang
This is an excellent book if you are looking for a detailed story of not only the James Gang, but of the political climate in Missouri before, during, and after the war. It's a well written book. However, if you are just interested in Jesse and his exploits you will have to do a lot of reading here to find them.

Amazingly deep detail, insight and style. A truly great read!!!! TJ Stiles is an amazing writer!
A truly great read. Uncovers the myths about Jesse and gets to the heart of what he really stood for, where he came from and who he became. One of the best biographies I've ever had the pleasure to read. Ash ... Read more

Product 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 (6)

Excellent service
I purchased this book as new for less than a buck, and it arrived within a 10 day period, and was brand new, excellent shape, I am very happy!Thank you.

A Wonderful Journey
I tend to be wordy.I will try not to be.This is a wonderful book.And I loved the movie and own both.The book was written some years ago and is an indepth study of the latter years of JJ.It could be titled The Story of Bob Ford.But then it probably wouldn't have sold.It is done in a style that reflects that era meaning the use of English as well as details in the environment.Some may find the English of that era shot through with references and words we are not familiar with.To some that frustrates.I tend to contextually get their meaning and enjoy that the wording is there and just let it pass.This is not the life history of JJ, but at the point past his life of crime and to the time when Bob Ford comes on the scene.It follows past the death of JJ, following Bob into areas I found interesting.[One fascianating thing for this reader, I am 63.At age 10 or younger there was a record around the house with this song about the coward who killed JJ.Just listened in ignorance and never heard that song again... until the movie.Bob hears it being sung in a bar years after the murder.]
For those who saw the movie, yes, it seems the greater part if not all of the movie script does come directly from the book.I am glad of that.If you're just passin' through, this might bother you.If you are 'interested' then you enjoy the exposure to an earlier time.I watch movies like this several times.(Just understand the book has more words than the movie--lol).

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.

poor jesse
This was a well researched book. So I take it for pretty close to the truth. It gave a full and detailed impression of Jesse..Makes you really like him and find him quite interesting and intelligent. Gave an impression of how things were after the Civil War for most folks and the vast "kin" these people had. I thought it was also insturctive to find out what ever happened to Robert Ford. Yet, I felt that part of the book was a bit to long, even though new to me.In fact never even wondered what became of R. Ford.You will fully enjoy the funeral parts for Jesse.

What A Great Read!
Look, I don't know how much of the "novel" THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD is true; I don't know how much of the dialogue and interaction and actions of the characters actually took place, or were embellished by a very gifted Ron Hansen.

But does it matter?The account of the final days of infamous outlaw Jesse James (and the subsequent final days of his killer) is "historical fiction", in any case (the definitive oxymoron, if you ask me).What does matter is this tightly written tale is as fun a read as I've come across in years.Hansen has vividly captured the flavor and pysche--and grit--of post-Civil War Americana.His prose recreates the flare and panache of the 19th Century dime novel; his book is heavily (and delightfully) populated by descriptive passages such as this:

'Zerelda gazed at Bob and mushed vegetables with zig-zag motions of her gums, her lips protruding like the clasp of a purse.She looked to Jesse and said, "I don't know what it is about him, but that boy can aggravate me more by just sitting still than most boys can by pitching rocks." '

Depicting the final train robbery of the notorious James Gang, followed by the band's break-up (and some of its members exited stage left involuntarily), THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD is a fascinating look inside the head of Jesse Woodson James--a calculating, diabolical killer, yet devoted and cherished family man.As a bonus, we get to climb around inside the head of Robert Newton Ford, an undistinguished nobody who yearned for attention.Surrounded by a cast of very colorful characters--most of whom die prematurely--this is a fabulous novel, an absorbing, entertaining read.Any truth, as they say, is somewhere in between.
--D. Mikels, Author, The Reckoning ... Read more

Product Description

Product 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 (22)

TED YEATMAN - 1951-2009 - RIP TED
Ted was THE James Gang historian.We were buddies at Vanderbilt and neighbors at West Hall in the 1970's.I heard lately he died of COPD in Maryland - sad.My dad called Ted, me and our crew 'The Gun Hippies.'We used to go to some of my family properties in TN and let loose with a variety of classic firearms.Being 'fond of the grog' as we used to say, we would shoot up bottles after properly disposing of the contents in an eco-friendly way - lol.Those old Colts, Mausers, Brownings and muzzle loaders were quite fun on those days so long ago.

Who knows - maybe Ted is talking to Frank, Jesse and the boys right now.Ted was a consumate niche historian, author and my friend.Goodbye Ted, may you RIP.

Frank and Jesse James
The information is great, but it just did not grab my attention.I love the photos of the family and era.

If You Want the Facts, Here They Are
Much has been written about this icon of American outlaw mythology.If you are into the facts in detail, and an even-handed view of this subject, then I would highly recommend this book.If you are looking for an exciting tale, full of action and mayhem, you might wish to look elsewhere.All in all, it's a fine read with a lot of facts, and would make an excellent text source for a univerity class.There is a lot of interesting material within, such as Frank James' life after his brother's death.It's well worth the price of admission into this world.

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. ... Read more

Product 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 (16)

A little dry but very good.
This book could have been cut down a few pages and still got its point across. That said it was still a great read. It was interesting following around Robert Ford and Jesse James in the later years of Jesse James reign of train robberies. It was very interesting to get the mind set and point of view of Robert Ford (speculation of course because this is of course historical FICTION). All in all I reccomend this book to any western fan.

Movie/Novel Same-Same---Not a Good Thing
If you've seen the movie then you've read the book.If you read the book then you've seen the movie.They are almost word for word, scene for scene.I saw the movie first and thought it a bore-fest; too long by 60 minutes easy.Then reading the book I thought it was too long by a good 100 pages.But you really only need one or the other, or sadly, neither.Yes the writing is very good, and yes the directing, acting and overall production values of the movie are good as well.But is it entertaining?Only so far.My recommendation, do one or the other, but not both.

Why a novel?
A novel about a historical figure?It works if you don't know anything about J. James.Otherwise it is just fluff.

Excellent Book A MUST HAVE
This book is Great. A Must Read in my Oppion.

Two Thumbs WAY Up

This book has A LOT in common with the film
I saw the movie first and while I applauded the lush cinematography and attention to detail.The performances were great but unfortunately the overall effect was mired down in often excrutiatingly slow storytelling.

It's faithful to the book in that manner. Beautifully written with immense detail, the character study and history is frequently lost in the dense prose.It is a novel worth sinking your teeth into, but it IS a commitment of your time and attention. ... Read more

Product Description
The daring exploits of Frank and Jesse James have fascinated America for more than a century. Myth and fact have meshed together to create a legend of monumental proportions. Anxious to bask in the reflected glory of the James clan, many people have claimed a family connection to these two famous outlaws. Now noted Western historian and folklorist Phillip W. Steele has penned an authoritative chronicle of the James family, drawing on sources newly discovered in the past two decades.Anecdotes, family stories, and complete genealogies of all members accurately document the James clan's history in this entertaining, readable volume, which includes more than forty rare photographs. Individuals who believe they may share a blood tie with the James brothers will find this book invaluable in authenticating their claim; those who are merely captivated by the romance and mystery of two of America's most wanted men will discover much to add to their understanding of these celebrated figures.Journey through the old West with Jesse and Frank James and trace the history and heritage of these American folk heroes. The late Philip Steele was the author of several books on the Ozarks and the Wild West including Ozark Tales and Superstitions, Civil War in the Ozarks, and The Last Cherokee Warriors, all published by Pelican.Phillip W. Steele passed away on November 8, 2007. ... 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

Product Description
Orignally published in 1882, just months after Jesse'sdeathg, Triplett's book has been a matter of controversy eversince. The present edition includes an introduction and editorialcontributions by the distinguished historian of the West, JosephSnell. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

You Can't Trust Criminals.
This version of the life and death of Jesse James is a reprint of the controversial compilations of newspapers' opinions in the St. Joseph (MO) publication in 1882, just seven weeks after the death.Written by Frank Triplett who had clipped articles from the Kansas City 'Times' almost verbatim, he edited the stories and inserted them into his manuscript.He "borrowed" from other newspapers and various authors.In the 1883 city directory of St. Louis, he listed himself as an author.From 1884 to 1891, he was listed as a mining engineer.He brought out two editions, most of which disappeared.He was interested in history and his most prominent publication appears to be a campaign biography of Grover Cleveland.

"Thousands of other Confederates returned peacefully to Missouri...and lived successful lives."The Civil War, in particular the Home Guard who tortured the young Jesse, the carpetbaggers and groups like White Hats & Blue Gills we had in East Tennessee, turned him into "an outlaw in spite of himself.His Civil-War-engendered career of crime included robberies of banks and trains which took place five years after the war had ended.He and his brother Frank made themselves known as Southern bushwhackers and, at the time of his death, they'd become legendary gun fighters.

After he married his cousin, he lived for a time in Kansas City.Nashville, Tennessee, seated high among bluffs and covered with roses and lilacs, had given him "long and needed shelter."He appeared to lead a charmed life.However, he trusted the wrong people.He foresaw his demise before he was shot (as Lincoln did his own assassination) in his own home in St. Joseph.Charlie Ford had been staying as a guest and his younger brother, Bob, worked for a ransom of $2500 to kill their "friend."On April 3, unarmed Jesse James met his fate by turning his back to Bob Ford who fired the fatal shot.Ten years later, his fate caught up with him and he suffered the same treatment, shot and killed in Colorado.A funeral train transported the body from St. Joseph to Cameron, Missouri, to his childhood home to be buried.And thus, the legend began.To all classes of society, even to those who took no part in the horrors of the Civil War, a certain amount of demoralization fell upon the masses where robbery and murder ran riot.No one came out unscathed.

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

Product Description
This book an EXACT reproduction of the original book published before 1923. This IS NOT an OCR'd book with strange characters, introduced typographical errors, and jumbled words.This book may have occasional imperfections such as missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. that were either part of the original artifact, or were introduced by the scanning process. We believe this work is culturally important, and despite the imperfections, have elected to bring it back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide. We appreciate your understanding of the imperfections in the preservation process, and hope you enjoy this valuable book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Best of the West Biographies-Wonderful!
I Homeschool our two youngest children, ages 7yr & 11yr.So when we studied the West we had to stop and take a look at the so-called heroes and infamous men & women of the West.The "Best of the West Biographies" are by far the BEST!There is so much information packed into this 41 pg. book.It is divided into 6 chapters and has a "Timeline" and "Words to Know", in the back.My husbnd, who hates to read, has read every one of them.Elaine Landau gives you the facts with the rumors.The pictures are great also.I highly recommend this series for anyone studying the old west, or just curious about getting their facts straight. ... Read more

Product Description

Smart organizations recognize that Web design is more than just creating clean code and sharp graphics. A site that really works fulfills your strategic objectives while meeting the needs of your users. Even the best content and the most sophisticated technology won't help you balance those goals without a cohesive, consistent user experience to support it.

But creating the user experience can seem overwhelmingly complex. With so many issues involved-usability, brand identity, information architecture, interaction design-it can seem as if the only way to build a successful site is to spend a fortune on specialists who understand all the details.

The Elements of User Experience cuts through the complexity of user-centered design for the Web with clear explanations and vivid illustrations that focus on ideas rather than tools or techniques. Jesse James Garrett gives readers the big picture of Web user experience development, from strategy and requirements to information architecture and visual design. This accessible introduction helps any Web development team, large or small, to create a successful user experience.

Customer Reviews (47)

SLOW!
This product was a book for a required class that I ordered the week of my first class. It was said to get to me within 5-10 days. It has been four weeks! I still have not received my book, and I have had to spend my time in the library every week, when I could have had this book already.

Saved by a Poem
This is a moving story about life in a dictatorship. It is a short play that gets to the heart of the issues that people struggled through during the Stroessner regime in Paraguay. It was an eye-opening experience to read, and I think it would be a great play for any theater to perform.

My review on The Elements of User Experience
Picture this scenario.You have just labored the past couple of days to create, what you feel is, a great website. You have contacted your stakeholder and feel you are ready to implement the design.Flash forward to four weeks later, and you are now scratching your head as to why the intended audience is disconnected from your site.Is it your navigation?Design?Or some other element?Enter this great, little, easy reading book, The Elements of User Experience.

This book is a great starter book for someone new to the user-centered design field.Although it is not very detailed and it is short, it is a winner because it is user friendly, and has the added bonus of how to incorporate these planes into the industry.Every chapter has sections on how to present these documents and information to stakeholders, and how to organize and run usability tests.

Read the entire review at
[...]

This book is awesome
I think this is a great product for getting to know more about web design. I got it because it was a text book, but it is also a book that a lot of people who design web sites, or any interactive product, need to read.

A must have for anyone that plans to make stuff people will use
While the focus is on web design much of the value of this book is presenting a framework for thinking about design. It's really applicable to designing any product. This isn't a set of specific techniques or hand holding you through designing your web site. Rather, it's a survey of how visual artists, interaction designers, engineers, managers, marketing, and other experts come together to create. While this book does give brief summaries of different areas of knowledge useful to designing web sites and software, that isn't the main point. It assumes you are either an expert in one of these fields or have access to one on your team. ... Read more

Product 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 are coveted by millions and ridden by wealthy motorcycle fanatics like Keanu Reeves and Shaquille O’Neal. He’s one of People magazine’s "Sexiest Men Alive." But, only now, in I Am Jesse James, will his legion of fans get an up-close look at the man and his machines.

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

Customer Reviews (7)

what a looser
I too recieved the book as a gift. We read it, we laughed, we used it for target pratice. Seems he left out the part about the crank and the fat chicks in NYC.

Picture book
Love the pics, but dont expect much reading...more of a photo shoot, but i love it.just want to make sure you know what you are getting.

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. ... 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

Product Description
Web design is more than just creating clean code and sharp graphics. A site that really works fulfills strategic objectives while meeting users needs. Even the best content and the most sophisticated technology won't help you balance those goals without a cohesive, consistent user experience to support it.

The Elements of User Experience cuts through the complexity of user-centered design for the Web with clear explanations and vivid illustrations that focus on ideas rather than tools or techniques. Jesse James Garrett gives readers the big picture of Web user experience development, from strategy and requirements to information architecture and visual design. This accessible introduction helps any Web development team, large or small, to create a successful user experience. ... Read more

Product 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

Customer Reviews (2)

stella was quite a lady
this book was written by stella frances james (1882-1971).she was married to jesse james JR,who was the son of jesse james.stella describes their courtship and marriage and also her memories of the people she knew in the james family,including those who knew jesse james personally(like zee james-his wifeand zerelda cole james-his mother).
this book -by no means-is a book explaining the history of jesse james but,more true recollections of those who knew him and were speaking freely to a member of the family and in such case,the stories would be as close to the truth as anything.
this book has some nice photos of stella,her daughters, and members of the james family,etc.the latter section of the book deals with the james families legal troubles withtwo imposters-john james and j.frank dalton(who were both frauds).
stella ends her book by saying she hopes her story will help people find the truth,
versus the "legend" and the "myth" of jesse woodson james. i think it does.

wstrnnut
This small red hardback recently caught my eye in the gift shop at the James Farm, near Kearney, Missouri.A relatively short read (only 142 pages), it gives the history buff a different perspective of the James family and of Jesse's son, Jesse, Jr.The book is well written and edited and would not disappoint the fact-seeking reader. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A biography of of the West's most notorious outlaw gang
The lives of Jesse James and Cole Younger and their brothers are shrouded in myths created by Nineteenth Century journalists who celebrated their deeds and by themselves through the lies they told to cover their tracks and to excuse their crimes.Brant's book attempts to separate reality from legend, covering the James and Younger brothers from birth to death.Her book is not without sympathy for her subjects, but it is by no means an apologia for their manifold sins.Although Brant rightfully sees the origin of their criminal activities in Civil War guerilla warfare which carried over into the atmosphere of bitter reprisals following the war, she also chronicles their slide into simple greed and thrill-seeking.This volume is generous in its presentation of photographs of the outlaw gang, their associates, enemies, and victims, and of the places where they operated.

Excitement, adventure and human drama
Marley Brant is an excellent author, if you want to know the truth about Jesse James, his brother Frank, and their partners in crime you must read this fabulous biography. Brant sticks to this colorful history of theOutlaws in an enormously entertaining writing style. The James and Youngerboys are no longer just footmates in some dusty history books but stilllive in the minds. The real life adventures of these men were more amazingthan the fictional accounts that abounded even during their lifetimes.Their exploits in life made them immortal in death ! Marley Brantperseveres in trying to reconcile all the accrued information andmisinformation with the historical facts of the James-Younger saga. Thisbook will make you want to travel to Missouri to visit the area as it wasduring the civil war until1916. A must ! ... Read more

Product 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

Product Description
From his beginnings as a guerrilla fighter for the Confederates during the Civil War, Jesse James turned to robbery, becoming one of the most famous bank and train robbers in the history of the United States. With his band of outlaws, James led dozens of robberies and killed a number of people in Missouri and other states. Though legends have painted a sympathetic portrait of James, in reality he was a dangerous criminal who used violence to achieve his ends. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Splendid Job
++++Robinson does a splendid job bringing to life the real story of the outlaw Jesse James. Although intended for young readers, it also appealed to at least one aging adult- me! ... Read more

Product Description
Two mysterious trunks discovered over 25 years ago by direct descendants of the outlaw Jesse James launched a quest by historical archeologist Ron Pastore to find the truth regarding the outlaw’s true motives and the facts surrounding his death.
This first person narrative launches the reader into and follows the journey as Pastore relentlessly follows up every lead, hope and clue. As more is discovered, a historical conspiracy starts to unfold, where intrigue, secret societies and startling new evidence first suggests and then proves that the enigmatic outlaw Jesse Woodson James was much more than a common criminal. Indeed, his actions were based on a much larger goal… the creation of a new nation.
And his death?Could it have been a ruse to take the heat off of the much larger goal he and the secret society he belonged to were afraid of being discovered?
And what of the hundreds of millions of present day dollars worth of gold he stole? Tantalizing clues found in these trunks, coupled with years of research by Pastore, point to it still being buried, waiting to be discovered.
Jesse James Secret, an explosive and gripping page turner, reveals all of this and more for the first time to the world.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

awesome
I loved this book! The story is about the author's quest to discover the truth of Jesse James. Since grade school I never really bought the whole Jesse James was shot while adjusting a picture in his home. I didn't sound right to me, and I was excited to read about another theory- which I now believe- that the "real Jesse" was not killed but went on to live a long full life. The book draws you in from the get go and is a quick easy read. My dad and grandpa have already requested to read it and I've been talking about it with everyone! My only complaint is the whole secret society Jesse supposedly belonged to and that we don't get a lot of information to back that up or what it is about. I assume this is because the author is still investigating that part of Jesse's life and more evidence and information is needed. Altogether I would recommend this book to anyone who loves history and exploring the recorded history vs. the actual story. It was great fun, and I only want to read more! ... Read more

Product Description

Jesse James Harte had grown up as wild and untamed as his Old West namesake, but now he was the law in this stretch of the Wyoming high country. That meant trouble was his business--and if he'd ever seen somebody in trouble, it was the town's new schoolteacher, Sarah McKenzie....

She was as beautiful as a mountain meadow in springtime. But the haunted look in her eyes said she was running from something--something that had maybe caught up with her. He ached to protect her, to take that look away--and make her his forever....

But what could a lady like her want with a lawman with an outlaw's heart...?

Customer Reviews (3)

#2 IN THE SAGE OF THE OUTLAW HARTES -
Jesse James Harte was a bit wild after the accident that killed his parents [he felt responsible].He was 17 at the time and Matt was 22, while Cassidy was only twelve.Matt did his best for his brother and sister and ten years later we see the results.

Jesse is now the Chief of Police of Salt River and quite intriqued with Lucy and Dylan's new school teacher.She had secrets that he hoped to solve.

Matt is now married to Dylan's mother and Cassidy has moved out to work at a near by ranch.

Well, now Sarah McKenzie has dropped a bomb in Chief Harte's lap.She has accused the mayor, Seth Garrett of abusing his step-son and wants Jesse to look into the matter.
Corey Sylvester always appears to be getting into hot-water and acts very biligerent.There are many signs that he is being abused.But he refuses to talk to anyone.

Then one night Sarah comes home to find the house covered in blood and her windows broken. Jesse finds Seth's old fishing cap.

Oh, yes - trouble is brewing in Salt River and Jesse must get to the bottom of it - that is if he can keep his mind off Sarah and his hormones in check.
Only Sarah is finding that Jesse has awakened her desires for a very masculine, intriguing male.Blame it on those blue eyes.

Excellent plot - intriguing mystery - great characters - a bit slow on the action though.
Definitely Recommended--m-- Trio maybe a keeper.

A great read!
I enjoyed this book completely! It is very exciting. Highly recommened.

Wild Hartes strike again! Very highly recommended
The Hartes of the Diamond Harte ranch, consisting of two brothers and a sister, are about to find love in the miniseries Outlaw Hartes. Their father was a descendant of Matt Warner, one of the original members of Butch Cassidy's gang, and was so enamored with outlaws that he named his children after them: Matthew Warner Harte, Jesse James Harte and Cassidy Harte. In TAMING JESSE JAMES, Jesse James Harte will find healing and love in the most unexpected arms.

Even more than a year after the hospitals, the surgeries, and the bruises have faded, fourth grade teacher Sarah McKenzie still bears the deep-seated psychological wounds of her beating. She doubts that a sensual, sexy man like officer Jesse James Harte could find a mousy, wounded woman like herself attractive. After all, virtually all the women in town pant after him. Jesse radiates strength and power-exactly what she needs, but she doesn't feel worthy of such strength. Yet Sarah underestimates her own strength. She once stood up for what she believed in with debilitating personal consequences. Moreover, she does not hesitate to do so again, putting herself in danger while standing up for a child that she suspects has been abused.

Jesse James Harte lives up to his namesake, having always been a hell-raiser. The only difference between now and his teen years is that now he does it from the right side of the law. Consequently, he does not believe such an innocent woman as Sarah could want a somewhat reformed troublemaker. Still, he wants to know what put the shadows in Sarah's eyes, and where she earned her slight limp. He views her limp as a badge of honor: a proof of her ability to survive overwhelming odds. When Sarah reports her suspicions regarding one of her students, Jesse cannot help identifying the youngster that Sarah suspects has been abused. Little does he suspect the series of events that will subsequently transpire that will put Sarah at desperate risk.

Author Raeanne Thayne deftly captures the fears, the needs, and the desires of a woman recovering from the devastating psychological effects of a brutal beating and rape in TAMING JESSE JAMES. The story behind her beating is both unexpected and plausible, lending a powerful strength to the narrative. Conversely, Jesse is every heroine's bad boy dream: the outlaw cop. Yet he underestimates himself, as does Sarah underestimate herself, thereby creating both empathy and compassion in the reader. Favorite characters from the previous book of the series put in their appearance, especially Jesse's delightful nieces. Their bout of chicken pox and manipulation of their uncle's heart will keep readers smiling. Jesse's sister Cassie likewise appears, whetting the reader's appetite for the final book of the series, CASSIDY HARTE AND THE COMEBACK KID. Overall, Thayne magically balances suspense, danger and love in the perfect mix, firmly placing TAMING JESSE JAMES on the keeper shelf. Very highly recommended. ... Read more