Review - Go West, Young Man --5 stars

 

The western novel “Go West, Young Man”  is reminiscent of the old television show Wagon Train.  The story by William and J.A.Johnstone is about a wagon train of people who are traveling westward to build a new life for themselves.  The interactions of the 27 wagon loads of people and their trials and tribulations are the focus of the story. 

It is not unusual for this many people who are literally thrown together to experience some issues and feuds and even fights happen during the course of the long trek across the country.  Some folks could even lose their lives.

Part of the reason for the westward trek is due to the impending War Between the States in Missouri. Any wagon train needs a good wagon master and a good scout.  This small train has both in Uncle Clayton Schofield and nephew Clint Buchanan.  They are good at their jobs and good at handling unforeseen issues – whether Indians or just regular trouble in the train. They make a great team.

Following this story is a great way to vicariously experience the dangers and excitement of one of the journeys that so many people were to take as America moved westward.  A neat saga that could be said to have some epic proportions as a reflection of the thousands of wagon and people heading to a better life.  Some would lose all in the process.

The book is a quick read and one that is hard to put down.  If you like westerns, this is one that should not be missed.