Description Jesse James began life as a respected family man. He loved his parents and his brothers and sisters. However, as Jesse got older, he became caught up in the Civil War. Eventually, he enlisted in a group of guerilla fighters and attacked many soldiers. From there, his life turned to one of thieving. Along with his brother, Jesse avoided capture and became something of a living legend. This is his story, told for a young audience through simple language and richly illustrated images.