Through the process of writing these columns, I have accumulated many excellent books. As the hobby of collecting is more enjoyable when we share our finds, and allow others to celebrate in our good fortune. I now share some of my newest treasures....
The Reel Cowboy
Buck Rainey
The history of B Westerns and early pulp literature are deeply intertwined. No one knows this more than Buck Rainey, western movie historian and fan. In this three part book, Mr Rainey examines the myths that surround the 'reel' cowboy, the writers that made us dream, and lastly the cowboys that hit the sawdust trail.
The westerns of Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and Hopalong Cassidy that many of us remember fondly are mere shadows of what cowboying was really about. If we analyze the lifestyle, the original Hopalong Cassidy was more real, than the Bill Boyd incarnation. Buck examines the extreme diversities that we have come to accept as 'real', and in the process both educates and entertains his readers.
Most viewers of early westerns never read credits. As the fans grew up, and the westerns faded away, and we discovered that a handful of writers shaped North Americas view of the west. Writers like Oliver Curwood, Zane Grey, Max Brand, B M Bowers, William R Burnett, Frank Gruber, O Henry, Peter B Kyne, Jack London, and many others were cinematically prolific in their adaptations of their work. Oliver Curwood is the most prolific, with over 150 movies made from his novels and stories.
The last chapter is the most interesting. Buck Rainey presents an excellent study of the Circus Cowboys from Tom Mix, to the last touring cowboy Tim McCoy. Many early western fans encountered their heroes at the touring shows, then saw them at the local cinema. Buck Jones, Ken Maynard, and Tom Mix toured extensively, and eventually closed down in the late 1930's
Overall, "The Reel Cowboy", is an intriguing character study of the fictional cowboy. Written intelligently, and with a real appreciation for the genre, Buck Rainey stays true to his heart. If you love westerns, you have a date.
"The Reel Cowboy" can be ordered from
McFarland & Company Inc
Box 611
Jefferson, NC 28640
1-800-253-2187
James Arness: An Autobiography
James Arness and Robert E Wise
James Arness has had an amazing career. In his book, "James Arness", James Arness and Robert E Wise tell the story of the gentle giant that turned "Gunsmoke" into an American institution.
