The American tall tale has a starring role in the new Common Core curriculum, and tales do not get much taller than the stories of Pecos Bill. His adventures include fighting the Bear Lake Monster and lassoing and riding a tornado--and this legend is just getting warmed up! Most historians and folklorists think Pecos Bill stories are fiction, but there is the possibility that the character could be based in part on William Shafter, nicknamed Pecos Bill, who was known for being tougher than most folks. Whether based on a real man, or just pure American invention, readers will be thrilled to be along for the ride.