At Trails End: Homecoming by John Strother

Capturing the cadence, charm, and soulful lessons of small-town America, At Trails End: Homecoming by John Strother is a cleverly penned homage to youthful resilience, and the epic trials of survival as new kids in a tough-as-nails Texas high school. Ink, Dusty, Smoke, and Cowboy are victims of circumstance in this compact novella, but rather than wallow in their outcast social status, they define their own version of cool in a world that doesn’t prize originality. Brimming with lessons for any reader in their formative years, as well as sage wisdom for all ages, the writing is authentic, witty, and heartfelt. There is also an allegorical shine to this story, making this unassuming read a powerful commentary on the perennial struggle for progress.