The text is whatever is opposite of "riveting". "Flabby" comes to mind. Neighbors set out together on the Oregon trail along with 25 other wagons. I couldn't get past the low-level prose.

I received a review copy "Go West Young Man" by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone from Kensington Books through NetGalley.com. ( )

I have seen a lot of this author come through at my library's' donation days and they sell very well at our book sales. Way out of my wheel house, but I have been struggling to read lately and I thought something different might shake me out of my slump.

It is 1860, tensions are rising between the States, and a Civil War is brewing. 27 families leave Missouri with a wagon train and follow the Oregon Trail in search of a better life.

The writing is very simple but I think that is what gave the book authenticity. I could hear the slow drawl of the leader of the train and the simple down home folk that traveled with him. I latched onto the large group of characters as they encountered Indians, bad weather and all of the other "unknowns" that came with traveling across the country.

A good introduction to the genre Western and the author has peaked my interest. I will try another of his books to see if this was a fluke. Either way, it seems to have helped with my reading problem, so thankful for that. ( )

Title: Go West Young Man
Author: William W. Johnstone and J. A. Johnstone
Pages: 352
Year: 2021
Publisher: Kensington
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars.
John Zachary and Emmett Braxton are heading west on the Oregon Trail along with others seeking the promised land. The wagon master, Clayton Scofield, and his nephew, Clint Buchanan, will lead the company of travelers through all different types of country. As they set out, who knows how many different kinds of dangers all of them will face? They expect Indians to attack, drought is a real possible hazard and who knows what else but in order to get to greener pastures they all must band together and face the danger head on!
Ruby is one of the travelers on the train, and her husband is about to cause trouble for everyone with his antics. There is also Billy who shows up while everyone has already been on the trail. His appearance may not bode well for him or the person he is seeking! Then there is Cal who seems like a card sharp and not a good man, but can appearances be deceiving?
Go West Young Man is a wonderful tale that will take readers through many different landmarks on the Oregon Tail. There were times where I felt like I could see in my mind’s eye what the characters were seeing. I enjoyed the various players on the wagon train and how they came together to face some of the scariest moments, or cross various rivers.
Grab a copy and enjoy the exciting times the travelers face on The Oregon Trail!
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. ( )