Bass Reeves - Lawman

By: Georgianne Landy-Kordis

Narrated by: Abdallah Dahir

Length: 1 hr and 45 mins

Publisher's summary

Best-selling author G. Landy-Kordis brings the story of Bass Reeves to life in a fast-paced, yet touching screenplay. Lots of action in this story of the first black US Deputy Marshal appointed by Judge Isaac Parker to uphold the law in the untamed lawless Indian Territory in the 1800s.

©2015 Georgianne Landy-Kordis (P)2021 Georgianne Landy-Kordis

Like but liked more fully as adapted audio drama

I liked hearing a full cast historical fiction about someone I had not known about before consuming this audio stage play. Although I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had been translated fully into audio drama / radio play, I am very likely to listen to this again.

Bass is back and he's one bad mother, STOP!

You get the idea.

Georgianne Landy-Kordis' "Bass Reeves - Lawman" audiobook offers an enchanting experience that skillfully brings the Old West to life, capturing the essence of the era with a nice cinematic touch. What sets this audiobook apart is its seamless adaptation from a screenplay, which lends it a captivating and visually vivid quality that truly stands out. It helps that the author wrote the screenplay and then adapted the book, much like Goldman did the Princess Bride.

Landy-Kordis' background in screenwriting is apparent in the audiobook's narrative structure and pacing. The story unfolds like scenes in a movie, making each moment feel like a perfectly framed snapshot of history. The transitions between action sequences and character development flow naturally, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Narrated by Abdallah Dahir, the audiobook's cinematic quality is amplified by Dahir's expressive and versatile voice. His narration transports listeners directly onto the dusty streets of the Old West, where they can witness the trials and triumphs of Bass Reeves firsthand. Dahir's ability to infuse emotion into the characters' dialogue and inner thoughts adds depth to the story, making it feel like a true cinematic experience.

The screenplay adaptation enhances the audiobook's dramatic tension and vivid imagery. The well-crafted dialogue and vivid descriptions evoke imagery that's easy to visualize, as if watching a movie in your mind. Landy-Kordis' dedication to historical accuracy and attention to detail further enrich the authenticity of the story, immersing listeners in a bygone era.

For those not in the know, Reeves was a real-life lawman who was, without question, the best man to wear a badge. That includes Wyatt Earp. Bass Reeves, a legendary figure in American history, was born into slavery in 1838 in Crawford County, Arkansas. Despite his challenging beginnings, Reeves went on to become a prominent lawman and one of the first African American Deputy U.S. Marshals west of the Mississippi River. Known for his unparalleled tracking skills, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice, he gained a reputation as one of the most feared and respected lawmen of his time.

Reeves' path to becoming a lawman was unconventional. After the Civil War, he escaped slavery and fled to the Indian Territory, where he eventually became a U.S. Deputy Marshal. Over the course of his career, which spanned from 1875 to 1907, Reeves was credited with apprehending more than 3,000 criminals and bringing them to justice. His legendary status was further cemented by his ability to handle difficult situations with intelligence and determination, often working undercover to infiltrate outlaw groups and apprehend dangerous fugitives.

Bass Reeves' legacy extends beyond his law enforcement prowess. He served as a symbol of strength and resilience for African Americans in the post-Civil War era, challenging racial prejudices and breaking down barriers in the process. Reeves' remarkable life story has been the inspiration for numerous books, movies, and cultural depictions, highlighting his role as a true American hero and a trailblazer for justice and equality.


This is a remarkable audiobook that seamlessly marries the worlds of screenwriting and storytelling. Georgianne Landy-Kordis' screenplay adaptation, coupled with Abdallah Dahir's engaging narration, brings the Old West to life in a way that feels as though you're watching a captivating movie unfold. If you're a fan of historical tales that are as cinematic as they are informative, this audiobook is a must-listen.

Necessary

Having seen the movie this was a bit different, but good. Bass really needs a much more detailed story told, but this is a very good start.

Loved how the obstacles he faced were many, but weren't lingered on and how he dealt with life.

The narrator threw me off a little, but I can't imagine the difficulty of trying all of the voices, dialects and vernacular for this story so I moved past it.

Good listen

A wonderful experience!

Heartbreaking, heartwarming and first and foremost real, this is the story of Bass Reeves, the nations first Black Deputy US Marshal west of the Mississippi River. Engagingly written in a screenplay format that not only manages to draws you in, it paints a virtual picture in your mind as you listen! Adding to the allure, the story is expertly narrated and enhanced by sound effects, making Bass Reeves - Lawman a completely immersive, and throughly enjoyable experience. I can honestly say that I have not only come to know Bass Reeves, I have come to understand him, and most of all I have come to respect, and admire him. This is a story well worth listening to, and well worth more than the five stars I’m allowed to give!

Great!

The production value on this book is at the highest level! The narrator does a wonderful wonderful job! Even without the extra effort that went into the book, his voices alone will keep you captivated.

Good book

This is a well written book. Narrator does a good job. I think this book is better than the movie.

Terrific story on audible

This screenplay transformed into an audiobook was a pleasure to listen to and a memorable experience.
The narrator did a fabulous job with voices and emotions, and it seemed just like I was standing on that dusty street in the old west during the 1800's.
The author writes beautiful prose, I appreciated the real history that was told in this adaptation.
Time well spent for this reader.

Poor casting!

I can't honestly rate the quality of the story because I couldn't subject myself to listening to more than one chapter of it. I'm not sure who is narrating this work, but I consider it a literary crime. These narrators possessed no cultural or linguistic resemblance to the characters in this story, and their attempts were an insult to this screenplay and I dare say, an assault to my ears!
~Rachelle

Great story, poor telling

Was really hard to listen too. It was like they were reading a play script.