MWSA Book Review
Authors: Joseph Yakel
Publisher: Lulu Press
Reviewer: W. H. "Bill" McDonald – President of MWSA
A Totally Unique and Fresh Style of Writing a Novel – and it will make you smile!
I have read several thousand books in the last few decades but I have never, ever, read anything that compares to what author Joseph Yakel has created. His very unique story and story telling style in his novel, “The Legend of Juggin Joe,” is truly a refreshing break from all the other books and stories I have read.
Prepare yourself to be entertained and amused with his “Hill Billy” dialog and country humor. It is not a book that you have to think about or use your brain to dissect the meaning of – it is designed and written to make you laugh or to just make you smile a little. In this day and age with 24/7 reporting of bad news on the TV and radio and in the newspaper hitting you every where you turn – the story of Juggin Joe is a simple pleasure, nothing heavier than that. You can sit and read and enjoy without taxing your brain or your emotions. Laughter is good for heart so this book may always be healthy to read as well.
This may not be your normal genre of reading (I know it was not mine) but you will discover a very creative and captivating book. Most readers will find it is well worth the time spent just enjoying this good tale. The writing style is part of the fun of the book and the author uses it well.
A great book for all family members to read. It is on the MWSA list for family friendly books.
Reviewer: Joe Fabel – MWSA Review Board
“Juggin Joe” is a novel alive with the speech and actions of an important section of our country: the hard scrabble hills in the North-Eastern part of the United States. We are invited into the home of a specific family which is representative of that part of our heritage.
When first reading this novel, one must become used to the language (diction, spelling, punctuation, imagery) used to portray that of the hill country in the North-Eastern United States. Once that familiarity is in hand, the reader will discover a community of God fearing, patriotic individuals who must rely upon their own efforts to earn a living from the soil. Often “moonshine” is the answer to livelihood.
The reader follows the main character from the demanding days of youth to the years of achievement in adulthood. Throughout the novel we discover a lasting love and heartfelt appreciation for family and community. The simple yet demanding skill in “Playing the Jug," or "Juggin” earns Joe a celebrity part in the music world. The heart of America takes him in as one of their own.
Performing the music of “Juggin” opens Joe’s world whether at home, in the armed service or performing for the President and First Lady. Yet throughout this success, Joe returns to his home in the hills and the love of the young lady who has spent years awaiting his return.
Just what is “Juggin?” Pick up Joseph Yakel’s novel and discover the magic!