Book Review: If Not the Whole Truth

If Not the Whole Truth. Claire Arbogast, Margin Key, September 2024, paperback, 361 pages.

Reviewed by Florence Osmund.

An interesting cast of memorable characters stars in If Not the Whole Truth— author Claire Arbogast’s fictional, yet believable tale about the counterculture and anti-establishment movements that took place in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The story highlights protagonist Connie Borders’ internal and external conflicts as she tries to find her place in life during this contentious time period to ultimately realize how complex the issues are and that there are no absolute answers.

Those of us old enough to remember the sixties and seventies will find reminders in considerable detail of the array of social movements dealing in equality, civil rights, ending wars, and reproductive rights for women. Groups such as the Weather Underground Organization, SDS Youth Movement, Black Panthers, Rainbow Coalition, and Jane Collective drew in millions of young supporters and protesters.

Underground newspapers gave voice to marginalized groups and helped them build support and organize events. Anti-Vietnam war protests deluged college campuses. Woodstock and other festivals provided refuge from the political mayhem by offering an alternate culture of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll.

Arbogast does an exemplary job creating a compelling story line based on historical facts, making readers feel like they are on the protagonist’s journey with her. Most impressive is her deft manner in weaving together fact with fiction in the many thought-provoking plots and subplots. The descriptive writing makes scenes easy to visualize and experience. The author’s writing style is well-structured, fluid, and engaging.

An incredible amount of research and fact-checking obviously went into this book (as is evidenced by the footnote). All this research pays off in the book’s authenticity.