Bad News for Outlaws

Bad News For Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal

Publisher: Lerner Publishing Group

Copyright: 2009

By: Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

This is a biography of the fearless Bass Reeves he was the first African- American deputy U.S. marshal and the most successful in American history. He brought more than 3,000 criminals to justice with fewer than 14 deaths in the line of duty. He was a lawful man, he knew the rules and stuck to them. He even arrested his own son on murder charges. Bass Reeves kept peace in the Indian Terrority for over 30 years. This extremely hardworking man worked in the rugged Wild West in the late 1800s. 

There’s a “Western Words” glossary in the back, along with a timeline, research notes, and suggestions for further reading.Respect for the law and civilized behavior and the rewards of dedicated work run through this account of Reeves’ life.

Suggested Delivery: Read Aloud

Lexile Level: 860L

Key Vocabulary: Territories, sheriff, outlaw, lawless, lawman, warrant, bandit,

Web Resources:

Meet the Author: Read how Vaunda Micheaux Nelson track down information about the Old West hero. 

Audio Tape: Author Talking about how she began writing the book Bad News for Outlaws and then she reads an excerpt from the book http://www.teachingbooks.net/book_reading.cgi?id=3966

Comprehension Strategies:

Before Reading: Students will make vocabulary cards, with the word, definition, picture, and the word used in a sentence to study key vocabulary.

After Reading: Students will have a discussion on why the story of Bass Reeves is important? What makes Bass Reeves’ story inspirational?

Writing: One of the most surprising details about Bass Reeves is that he arrested his own son, Benjamin. Imagine you are Benjamin and write a letter to your mother from jail.