Book Review
Book Review
Wyandotte Bound
Swept from the sophistication of the East in another era and drawn into the new frontier of the West to turn a town into a community with all its flaws and rustic charms, the characters develop before your eyes. Quickly drawn in to the obstacles of life in the West versus the trappings of the East, decisions of the heart must be weighed. Every choice matters. This classic American Western Romance blossoms with vibrancy and feeling which stirs your heartstrings. Dr. George Arnold is an extremely talented writer who has captured the essence of the Old West with this page-turning story which made me miss my horse!
Saddle up, fans of classic Westerns -- especially those of you who love those rollicking serials starring Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and other movie matinee heroes. True to that spirit, Wyandotte Bound starts at a gallop and keeps the action coming. The settings are timeless: dusty saloons, sprawling landscapes and a burgeoning Nevada community struggling to take root. The characters are familiar, yet nuanced: a reluctant gunfighter seeking a fresh start, an Eastern aristocrat finding purpose on the frontier, and several strong female characters who show depth beyond "the role society has devised" for them. The plot unfolds quickly, yet across a surprisingly vast canvas: From fireworks in the first paragraphs, to flames of romance, shadows of tragedy, and a thrilling final confrontation and closure. Through it all, we are reminded what it means to be "bound" to the place and time in which we live, and, ultimately, to each other. In short, Wyandotte Bound is exactly what you hope for in a classic Saturday afternoon Western. Grab a copy, pop some corn (extra butter for me), and escape into "those thrilling days of yesteryear." Sticky floor optional.
My earliest impression after reading the several pages of Wyandotte Bound was the author’s obvious skill in writing fiction. I expected clear and concise wordsmithing given Dr. Arnold’s background as a newspaper reporter and ultimately a journalism professor. As a matter of fact, I have read Dr. Arnold's Seventh Edition of Media Writer’s Handbook, a textbook widely used in journalism classes today. However, more than technical expertise is required to write interesting fiction that appeals to a wide audience. As did Dr. Arnold, I spent many Saturdays in theatres watching the same western stars, most wearing white hats, triumph over the black-hatted evil doers, and I believed this novel was following the same script. That misconception was corrected as the narrative morphed into a story more in tune with my adult reading habits while remaining suitable for young readers, and the morphing was seamless. The characters developed into three-dimensional people and they are likeable. It is both an easy read and a good story.
One short, fast-paced chapter into this book, I thought I was in for a Marty Robbins gunfighter ballad. A few more chapters and I thought I was in for a John Ford western. At some point it occurred to me that the best metaphor might be a single-season miniseries, such as "Centennial," except this is no James Mitchener-length book. And that's a good thing, because I've never read a single one of Michener's books. This is a short book, the short chapters of which drive the narrative right along. For such a thin book, it encompasses a number of years, a diversity of characters, and a bit of unexpected development. It's almost as if this book were written by someone who's used to getting a lot across with a minimum of words while having to maintain the reader's interest. Like, I don't know, a journalist. (This is a bit of an inside joke, because Dr. Arnold was one of my journalism professors long ago. )
Old Mrs. Kimble's Mansion
Old Mrs. Kimble’s Mansion is the second book by George Arnold that I have read and I have come to thoroughly enjoy his writings. I found his first book, Wyandotte Bound, to be a good western as it reminded me of one of My favorite western, Big Country, starring Gregory Peck, Jean Simmons, Charlton Heston, Burl Ives and many other stars of the 1950s epic movies. Mr. Arnold is a great storyteller with good development of the characters and a great story. Anyone coming from a small town can probably relate to a “big fancy house” town either up on a hill or in the back of a big lawn. I can relate his references to small town life and, if you know anything about West Virginia, you will love the citations to many geographic places. It is also nice to read about “The Greenbrier Resort” as I remember seeing it on the golf coverage when they used to have a PGA Golf tournament there every year. I liked his courtroom scenes and the attorney tactics we see on TV all the time. I definitely recommend Mr. Arnold’s books. And, I think he has a great last name.
Dr. George T. Arnold was among my favorite professors at Marshall University and always has been a great storyteller. "Old Mrs. Kimble's Mansion" doesn't disappoint and offers as many plot twists and turns as the drive between Logan and Man. For expatriate West Virginians, in particular, this novel evokes a sense of nostalgia and the familiar pull of home no matter how long away. My own hometown had its own version of Old Mrs. Kimble's mansion. I especially enjoyed the characters' visits to many favorite spots, including Jim's Steak and Spaghetti House and Stewarts Hotdogs in Huntington. Go, Herd! I'm looking forward to the sequel.
Intriguing, suspenseful beginning grabbed my attention and kept it throughout the novel. Well developed characters the reader gets to know personally, and plots with several unexpected twists and turns. I also loved the ending. The author's expertise as a career-long language skills teacher was evident in the way he made the book an easy read with concise sentences and paragraphs and simple, precise wording. Extraordinarily well written. Well worth a few hours of your time.
Growing up in Southern WV, this is a story after mine own heart. A captivating journey down memory lane. Suspenseful, endearing, intriguing, and intimate! Dr. Arnold weaves a lot of romance, history, and mystery into this novel. The big reveal toward the end, made me wish I was there to see it! The book has a perfect ending, which is important to me. Anxiously awaiting the next one!
Media Writer's Handbook: A Guide to Common Writing and Editing Problems
From the first chapter, this book has become the most valuable resource in my personal library. As a journalist and newly appointed editor, proper and adequate information is difficult to find. Most of it is repetitive, and frankly, boring. However in stark contrast, George T. Arnold’s years of expertise and passion for the craft flow from creators brain into our vulnerable readers’ minds, like a sort of teacher telepathy described in Stephen King’s ‘On Writing’. Arnold’s prose is witty, educational and rings true to anyone who has dared venture into murky journalistic waters. If you’re looking for a publication that is easy to read, and filled with invaluable knowledge of the craft, look no further. This book would be especially useful to writers groups.
It's common in the communications field (journalism, PR, etc) to hear veteran professionals bemoan the skills of recent graduates who "just can't write!" I like to think that happens fewer times describing students that take my communications courses - and one reason is this substantive resource! I'm grateful that George Arnold compiled and updated this resource through the years that aids students in getting just a bit closer to professional level. In my view, it would be useful for high school students as well!
I’ve been using this mass communications staple for almost 30 years now and it’s just as much of a companion for the writer as any reference book available. Yes, I am a grammar geek but this book is actually enjoyable and so easy to use, you will find yourself picking it up to prove a point to your colleagues, friends and family. Dr. Arnold has now made it more affordable than ever, so I have a hard copy in my office plus the Kindle version always by my side. This is an excellent tool that actually will make those grammar quandaries a fun and educational venture when they arise. I absolutely attest this book dramatically has improved my speech and writing.
This book should be required for any journalist and media writer. It actually should be required reading for everyone. Dr. Arnold explains things in such a way that it’s easy to comprehend. I was fortunate enough to have him as a professor and mentor at Marshall University when this book still was in its infancy. It’s even better and more informative now.
One Minute Past Christmas
This author is a sentimental favorite. I would highly recommend this book for a comforting, easy read. It's longer than a short story, but almost feels like one. It's probably best to hang on to it until Christmas-time and then when you need to escape the stress of the in-laws, sneak away and get lost in this story for a bit.
To all my librarian and other teacher friends: I just finished reading this book, One minute Past Christmas, written by one of my favorite MU journalism professors, Dr. George Arnold. It is a great read and an inspirational story for middle school and high school students. Adding it to your book purchases would be a great service to your students.
This is a beautifully written story about the relationships that span generations. The characters are so realistic they seem like someone you know and you empathize with them throughout the story. A wonderful and uplifting tale that creates page-turning anticipation and would make a great Hallmark Christmas movie. Bravo Dr. George Arnold!
Dr. George Arnold was one my professors during my days as a journalism student at Marshall University, and he was our go-to source for information on all things related to grammar. But more than that, his insights into the complexities of accurately and fairly reporting the news were invaluable. Now, he's taken to applying a different sort of insight toward something personal and touching, and, while not specific to West Virginia, it still retains a sort of Appalachian sensibility unique to the area. I'd like to see more of Dr. Arnold's fiction...wonder if there's a novel in the works?
Serendipitous Hodgepodge & the Kitchen Sink
This unusual book, as the title implies, offers a variety of content that has something of interest for each reader. But it is the author's writing I like best. His journalism background has given him a talent for writing brief sentences and paragraphs with smooth transitions and simple language. I thoroughly enjoyed reading each article, and the Christmas story, poem, and cake recipe were welcome bonuses.
Yet another one of Dr Arnold’s interesting books. I have read all of the authors books and each one is so surprisingly different. This one is full of actual facts and encounters with famous people and even a cake recipe. I will definitely be making the cake for Christmas !! I can recommend this book to everyone !
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, a compilation of some of Dr. Arnold's fascinating life experiences. Covering a wide range of events and topics, the stories are well-told, informative and entertaining. I liked it so much I read it in one sitting and bought another copy to give as a gift. Highly recommend!
I especially liked the Christmas cake recipe included in this book. I made it, and it is so good! Very interesting and thought provoking, reading about important people that cross our paths in life.
The Heart Beneath the Badge
Enjoyed this so much that I bought a second copy for a friend. Great mixture of love and a little intrigue. A great way to spend an afternoon.
For all of the Yellowstone fans, this is a must read. It is a very good love story with some unusual twists… I would highly recommend it !! It would make a great Christmas gift too.
I got this book for Christmas and it is phenomenal! Definitely worth the read.
