Legends and Lies: Great Mysteries of the American West

Following a foreword by acclaimed historical novelist John Jakes, author Dale L. Walker takes readers on a journey into the past to explore the unsolved mysteries and riddles left behind by some of the Old West's most famous names, starting with the final fate of Davy Crockett and the inexplicable suicide or murder of former explorer Meriwether Lewis. Further on, readers will encounter chapters dedicated to poignant Sacajawea, blustery General George A. Custer, Crazy Horse, mysterious "Brushy Bill" Roberts, Rough Rider Bucky O'Neill, a laughably pathetic Jesse James impostor, and surly author Ambrose Bierce, among others. The only chapter I found both bewildering and just outright bizarre involves an implied link between Boston Corbett, who is the alleged (and mentally unstable) assassin of John Wilkes Booth, and the horrific Jack the Ripper; as interesting as it is, this sole chapter was the only item which made me question the author's credibility or perhaps, more so, his decision to include this Corbett story since it seems too far-fetched.Beyond that criticism, Walker's book is a treasure trove for casual armchair historians who enjoy a tantalizing mystery as much as the timeless appeal of the Old West's wily frontier. Without passing judgment on those involved or suggesting what the correct answer must be, Walker lays out his stories with reasonable conjecture, well-placed wit, and rather insightful background information about the participants. The book is well worth at least one read, as Walker's storytelling in "Legends & Lies" remarkably holds up well after multiple readings.Rating: 9/10 for historical entertainment value. Appropriate for ages 15+ and up.P.S. Although he satisfactorily addresses the link between the assorted Billy the Kid and Jesse James impostors, Walker unfortunately misses at least one tantalizing subject (probably in part because it may be worth a book by itself) is the enigmatic fates of desperadoes "Butch" Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, considering the impressive number of supposed impostors they inspired well into the 1930's.

Interesting "facts" about well known outlaws of the American West. These stories shine a new light on what you've been taught to believe about Billy the Kid, the James boys, etc. A fun read.

Books of the west that are resurrected,and then written are more enjoyable to read. The story's were well written with fact, and the lies woven in to provide a complete story.

Enjoyable and very readable. Great for reading a chapter before bed time. I hope the history reported herein is accurate.

Well researched. Interesting and well written. Some of the stories were known to me but others were new. Worth your time.

Very interesting history stories.....

I bought it because my Great Grandfather was quoted in the book. Now that I read it, i am pleased with all the stories and facts listed in the book.

I bought this "used" book that was in perfect condition, as good as new, at a fraction of the "new" price. It was better than advertised, received in good time, and couldn't be more pleased. I'm a Western history buff, have finished reading it, and would never hesitate from buying from this company again. I am more than pleased.

Interesting book, but the author seems to repeat himself and uses the names of the characters to confuse you in these mysteries. Enjoyable read though.