◆ “Legends of the Wild West: True Tales of Rebels and Heroes” by Robert Edelstein.

By Richard Landreth
Director, Lincoln County Library System

The period of time between the end of the American Civil War and the beginning of the new century saw unprecedented growth and expansion across the American West. During that time we saw larger-than-life characters emerge such as the James brothers, Billy the Kid, Calamity Jane, Chief Joseph, Sitting Bull, Wild Bill Hickok, Geronimo, Wyatt Earp, Crazy Horse, and many more.

Whether these characters were heroes or villains, there is no doubt that they shaped the legend that is the Wild West! “Legends of the Wild West: True Tales of Rebels and Heroes” by Robert Edelstein brings these stories together, showing the intersection of many of these amazing and colorful characters. From outlaws to lawmen and gold rushes to massacres, the stories all contribute to the mystical era we call the Wild West.

Along with these legends come the enormous lies that fueled the dime novel trade in the Eastern United States. These novels helped to encourage people to move west and grab their share! Then with the media of the 20th Century, these legends became unforgettable, with actors such as Tom Mix, John Wayne and Ronald Reagan adding even more to the glamour that is the American West.

“Legends of the Wild West: True Tales of Rebels and Heroes” by Robert Edelstein was a great read, with photographs of some of the wildest characters in American history and enjoyable from the very first page!

You can find “Legends of the Wild West: True Tales of Rebels and Heroes” by Robert Edelstein at the Lincoln County Library System.