Presenting Buffalo Bill: The Man Who Invented the Wild West
What’s inside...
This book tells the story of Buffalo Bill, a man who was a cowboy, a showman, and a hoaxer. It explores his life and his role in the creation of the Wild West myth. Everyone knows the name Buffalo Bill, but few these days know what he did or, in some cases, didn't do. Was he a Pony Express rider? Did he serve Custer at the Battle of Little Big Horn? Did he scalp countless Native Americans, or did he defend their rights? This, the first significant biography of Buffalo Bill Cody for younger readers in many years, explains it all. With copious archival illustrations and a handsome design.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you think made Buffalo Bill a memorable figure in history?
How do you think the portrayal of the Wild West in Buffalo Bill’s shows differ from the real historical events?
Why is it important to understand the difference between entertainment and historical accuracy?
What impact do you think Buffalo Bill’s shows had on the way people viewed the American West?
How would you describe Buffalo Bill's character and motivations throughout his life and shows?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the difference between reality and Buffalo Bill's portrayal of the Wild West. Discuss the importance of historical accuracy and how it shapes our understanding of past events. Use examples from the book to highlight how public perception can be influenced by entertainment. Foster a deeper conversation by asking your child to consider how Buffalo Bill's personal experiences and the era he lived in might have shaped his shows and persona.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of authenticity
Explanation: The book delves into the true and exaggerated stories of Buffalo Bill, encouraging readers to discern fact from fiction.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of honesty and being true to oneself, which they can apply in their interactions and storytelling.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: Candace Fleming presents Buffalo Bill within the historical settings of the American West, explaining the cultural and societal norms of the time.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate history and consider the impact of past events on contemporary society.
Example Lesson: Impacts of personal narratives on public perception
Explanation: The book reveals how Buffalo Bill shaped his own legend and how it influenced the public's view of the American West.
Real-World Application: Children learn how personal stories can shape public perception, stressing the importance of critical thinking and questioning narratives.
Example Lesson: The complexity of historical figures
Explanation: The narrative explores both the heroic and problematic aspects of Buffalo Bill's life, presenting a balanced view.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that people are multifaceted, and it's crucial to acknowledge both virtues and flaws in individuals.