Jesse James by René Goscinny
Why read the book?
This album draws on the real legend of Jesse James, here played as a vain bandit who fancies himself a noble outlaw. He robs trains and travellers while spouting fine speeches about the poor, though the loot only ever lines his own pockets. His brother Frank, forever quoting Shakespeare, and cousin Cole round out the gang.
Lucky Luke, riding with Jolly Jumper, sets out to puncture the myth and bring the James gang to book. Goscinny enjoys mocking the gap between the outlaw's grand words and his greedy deeds.
Favourite quote
You steal from the rich and keep it all, so spare me the talk of the poor.
What I Loved
The portrait of Jesse James as a self deceiving phoney is wickedly funny, and Frank's literary quotations are a lovely touch. The album mixes real history with broad comedy without ever feeling forced.
It is a clever send up of how legends dress up plain crime.
Key Takeaway
A sly demolition of the outlaw legend, showing the robber behind the Robin Hood pose.
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