Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves (by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson)
common sense media says
Lively profile of a brave man living in a dangerous time.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know this is an unflinching portrait of a tough man living in a tough time and place. Bass Reeves is presented as an honorable man, but violence and racism inform much of his life story. An escaped slave, Reeves carved out a remarkable career arresting thousands of outlaws in a notoriously difficult region. Racism, violence, and gunplay are integral to the story, but are presented somberly.
Educational value:
This is a rugged look at life in the Indian Territory in the late 1800s, rich with historical context. There’s a “Western Words” glossary in the back, along with a timeline, research notes, and suggestions for further reading.
Positive role models:
Bass Reeves is presented as a clever, hardworking, and righteous man with a deep respect for the law. He even arrested his own son on murder charges. He commanded respect by being extremely good at his work, and often tried to convince his prisoners to mend their ways.
Violence:
Nothing unexpected in a book on a marshal in Old West: It opens with a strong image looking down the barrel of a gun and Bass reluctantly killing an outlaw, and goes on to address slavery, racism, murder, and plenty of outlaws. One spread shows an empty rope hanging as the hero carries away a man who was about to be lynched.
Sex:
Reeves' daughter-in-law is described as being "untrue."
Language:
Not applicable.
Consumerism:
Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
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