Rooster by Brett Cogburn

Goodreads · Various · 2026-01-24

engaging 3.60

Readers on Goodreads praise the book for its vivid portrayal of a true American icon and its engaging narrative. They find it to be a fascinating account of the making of a legend.

Goodreads reviewers generally have positive things to say about 'Rooster.' They appreciate the book's vivid portrayal of Franklin Cogburn and its engaging narrative. Many readers find it to be a fascinating account of the making of a legend, with a mix of historical facts and compelling storytelling. The reviewers highlight the book's ability to bring the Old West to life, making it an enjoyable read for history buffs and casual readers alike. They also note that the book does an excellent job of balancing factual information with an entertaining narrative, making it both educational and enjoyable. The overall consensus is that 'Rooster' is a well-written and engaging book that sheds light on a significant figure in American history.

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Proud, stubborn, fearless, and ornery to the bitter end.

A fascinating portrait of a true American icon, Rooster shows us the making of a legend.

The book provides a detailed and nuanced look at the real-life figure behind the legend.

True West Magazine · 2022-02-25

informative 3.75

The article compares the fictional Rooster Cogburn with the real-life figure of Bass Reeves, highlighting the historical inaccuracies in the legend. It's a thought-provoking piece for readers interested in the Old West.

True West Magazine delves into the historical inaccuracies surrounding the legend of Rooster Cogburn, comparing it with the real-life figure of Bass Reeves. The reviewer points out that while Rooster Cogburn is a fictional character, his story has overshadowed the remarkable achievements of actual historical figures like Reeves. They appreciate the article's effort to set the record straight and provide a more accurate portrayal of the Old West. The piece is well-researched and offers a fresh perspective on the myth versus reality debate. The reviewer also notes that the article is an excellent starting point for further exploration of the era's history, encouraging readers to look beyond the popular legends.

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True Grit's Rooster Cogburn is fictional, but Bass Reeves (1838-1910) isn't.

The article compares the fictional Rooster Cogburn with the real-life figure of Bass Reeves, highlighting the historical inaccuracies in the legend.

The piece is well-researched and offers a fresh perspective on the myth versus reality debate.

The Edge of the Precipice · 2015-04-26

insightful 4.00

The book provides a detailed and nuanced look at the real-life figure behind the legend, challenging some of the popular myths. It's a well-researched and engaging read for history enthusiasts.

The Edge of the Precipice offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Franklin Cogburn, the man who inspired the legendary Rooster Cogburn. The reviewer appreciates the meticulous research and the debunking of common misconceptions. They highlight how the book portrays Cogburn as a complex figure, neither entirely heroic nor villainous, but a product of his times. The narrative is engaging and well-paced, making it a compelling read for those interested in American history and the Old West. The reviewer also notes that the book does an excellent job of contextualizing Cogburn's actions within the broader historical landscape, providing a deeper understanding of the era.

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Franklin Cogburn was never a Marshal, had two good eyes, was only rarely called 'Rooster,' and never lived to be an old, fat man.

The book provides a detailed and nuanced look at the real-life figure behind the legend.

The narrative is engaging and well-paced, making it a compelling read for those interested in American history and the Old West.

Rooster

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