Review of The Long Hard Ride

[Do Thi Huong]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Long Hard Ride" by Thomas Westin.]

---

4 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The Long Hard Ride is Thomas Westin’s memoir about his travels during the 1970s and 1980s. It is a story of his personal growth through each day in his journey, his love for animals, and the kindness of strangers who help and teach him valuable lessons along the way.

After struggling to fit in with his community in Rapid City, South Dakota, the author decided to leave for Texas in search of new job opportunities. He began by walking and hitchhiking before acquiring a horse and a mule. What may engage readers is that the author set off with little plan and no knowledge of what lay ahead. Driven solely by a desire to prove something to others, he seemed lost at first. Traveling without the internet or cell phone at the time, his journey was filled with hardship and danger, which would eventually become a transformative experience in his life.

The book is a pleasant read for me. I find this man likable. He has a good heart; he was once the boy who didn't have the guts to steal. He loves attention but chooses to learn when someone points out his mistakes. His honesty about his shortcomings makes the book relatable, and anyone can take away something profound from his experiences.

The memoir is written in a conversational tone. The language is descriptive; the author captures nature with beautiful descriptions and provides brief historical insights into the places he visits. There is a certain calmness and humility in the author’s voice that I really like. He never comes across as full of himself, as much of the book is about the kindness of people and his experiences with animals—his companions on this journey.

As much as I enjoyed the book, there are a few small things I find less satisfying. One example is the brief mention of his dog, Smoke. The dog was flown to him in the middle of his journey, yet after that, the story continued without any mention of what happened to him. I wish this part had been given more attention and developed into a meaningful scene rather than a passing detail.

At times, the writing feels a bit flat when there are a lot of “I said," "she said," and "he said” in his storytelling. Also, I think the ending lacks a sense of closure. Even though the book is just part of an ongoing adventure that will continue, I would like it better if there were a reflection or a hint of what to expect in the next volume.

These are more like observations than harsh criticisms. In the end, I still love this book and would rate it 4 out of 5 stars. It is a worthwhile read for anyone with the spirit of an explorer.

******
The Long Hard Ride
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Louis Donald]

I love how the author’s journey seems both challenging and transformative, especially with his reflections on personal growth and his connection with animals. The moments of kindness he experiences along the way make it sound like an inspiring read. It’s a shame the dog and ending weren’t more fully developed, though.

[Shaniz Tobiaz]

The book must be having a number of themes in it, i guess i will give it a try some day. Great review pal

[Pearl Flourish]

The idea of setting off with no real plan and just seeing where the road—and a horse—takes you is both wild and inspiring. It sounds like an honest, reflective journey that captures the beauty of the open road and the kindness of strangers.

[George Bastem]

The idea of setting off with no plan and just figuring things out along the way is both terrifying and inspiring. It’s refreshing to see a memoir that embraces honesty, humility, and the kindness of strangers while capturing the raw beauty of the journey itself.