Pat F. Garrett (1850–1908)

Although the narrator was excellent, this is not an easy book to listen to, just because it's an older book and the style of writing is old-fashioned. But, that said, the content was downright interesting and, well, fun to listen to in historical context (I doubt I'd feel the same way if this were an account of a contemporary killer). Billy the Kid was a killer and outlaw and it probably was scary to have guys like that running around killing whomever they wanted. But his story has been overblown in history and it was enjoyable to read this relatively "true" account of his life.… (more)

There have been nickel & dime yellow-backs, articles, history books, novels and of course, Hollywood film versions of the legend known as Billy the 'Kid'. Now read the memoirs by the sheriff that not only knew the 'Kid' first hand, he killed him. But by all means, read the intro by J.C. Dykes (it sets the authenticity headed in the right direction, something the astute reader will catch as to who's actually telling the story and when) and the addenda for the authors final words. The book was written as the language was spoken back in the day, and the edition I read claims to have been printed in 10 point Janson; the purpose being 'to provide a readable page, in a type face whose nervous vigor has something in common with the exciting events it records.' I'll give it that much. It was desirable to envision this legend of the west, go down the way it did. Cattle rustlers, dusty trails, on the lamb, no fear of the law, and cold-blooded murder makes for 'the faithful and interesting narrative' the title's by-line lays claim to. How true is this version? I couldn't really say, I wasn't there. But since the story was conveyed by the 'man' that had nothing to hide, and it's image is as far from 'over-the-top' as a legendary story can be told, I'll take Garrett's word for what transpired in the back third of the book.… (more)