James Bowie

by Shannon Garst

A book for adolescent readers about a great figure in Texas and Louisiana History.

Genres: Biography, American History, History

192 pages, Hardbound - Library Edition

First published January 1, 1955

About the author

Doris Garst was born July 24, 1894, in Ironwood, Michigan. She became a teacher and school principal, but quickly turned to writing full-time after her first book, "The Story of Wyoming," was published in 1938. She published under the name Shannon Garst (Shannon was her step-father's surname) because the publisher of her first book didn't believe anyone would read a Western-themed book written by a woman. She lived with her family, including her husband, attorney Joseph Garst, in Douglas, Wyoming. She co-authored three books with her son, Warren Garst. The children's reading room at the Converse County, Wyoming, library is named for her.
link: source

Reviews

[Bill · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read, with politically incorrect (for today) language. This was a discarded library book from our school library. Slavery issues and the language of that period was accurate, but probably the reason for the discard. I am enjoying the final portion, reading it during silent reading time in my classroom. Sad to read some of the issues about Bowie's life. I would guess he should be a hero of today, as well as in the past.

[Laura Leilani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four and a half stars for this old children’s book. Author lists fifty five primary sources including an article written by John Bowie in 1852. The writing itself is a bit innocent and starry eyed for today’s jaded audience but I’ll bet kids of the past were blown away by this story. I know I was. It’s hard to wrap my head around men who did these things when all I’ve ever known are modern men who seem to break into tears or a tantrum at the least sign of a problem.

Modern parents be aware that slavery is mentioned and discussed.