Arnold Hokanson

The Uncertain Generation Arnold Hokanson

Publisher Marketing: The story, "The Uncertain Generation," is a follow-up to the author's first novel, "The Uncertainties of Life." While, both novels are a work of fiction, "The Uncertainties of Life," covers the problems, the hardships, and the triumphs, of ranch life over a large part of the twentieth century. It also served to point out how the problems of the world, eventually, came to effect ranchers and ranches, even, in the most remote areas. "The Uncertain Generation," brings us up to the mid nineteen-nineties. While, the ranch setting remains the same, the grandson, the third generation, has taken over the operation of the ranch, and while basic ranching practices remain somewhat the same, finds himself faced with problems completely different from those of his forbearers. The largest problem being that he is locked into a running battle with a giant corporation, where some of the top personnel show more interest in personal gain than in company profits, and are willing to use any approach to obtain their goals. Add to the fact that some questionable characters continue to lurk around the edges of the story and at times wander into the ranch for unknown purposes, all, which helps to confuse the issues. Although, friendships remain strong, and ranchers continue to be dedicated to one another, and work together in a helpful manner, while at times chiding one another in a good natured manner. The change in the type of livestock and equipment, used in some cases, as well as in morals of the times is quite evident, and also how such change is accepted. The story also shows how inflation has reflected upon the attitudes of people, as our hero is willing to put everything on the line in hopes of making that big score that people of the past just dreamed about. Add a beautiful woman, who fits into today's business world, to tempt a lonely bachelor. Our hero's frequent reflections upon his previous generations, while making comparisons to his own position in life, and, "The Uncertain Generation," all adds up to a story of mystery, romance, violence, and even financial manipulation, accustomed to our times.