Steaven L. Misher Review

“My review of Bro. Carter's recently released book "Hold My Mule, There Is No Such Word As 'Can't': Lessons From the Life of Dr. John H. Carter":

“As I look back on my first fifty years, I firmly believe that my journey was made successful through my belief in the Lord, myself, and the assistance of my supporting cast.” With these words, Bro. Dr. John H. Carter crystallizes a recurring motif that is sprinkled extensively throughout his memoir. 

Part autobiographical, part evangelical, at times humorous and disarming in its honesty, “Hold My Mule, There Is No Such Word As Can’t: Life Lessons From the Life Of Dr. John H. Carter” deftly manages to walk the tricky tightrope of being sincere without taking itself too seriously. 

Written in the straightforward, wry, unpretentious yet sagacious style emblematic of its author, “Hold My Mule,” walks the reader through a familiar but unique saga beginning in Central Georgia in the mid-19th century. 

Heroes and Heroines emerge throughout—none more than Mrs. Susan Carter, to whom the book is dedicated. With keen diligence to archival details, Bro. Carter weaves a narrative that feels as familiar as apple pie and as unique as life. Tender, wistful anecdotes are flavored with colorful relatives from his youth. Turbulent episodes are recounted which, while jarring to the reader, contain neither deceit nor remorse. 

In the opinion of this reviewer, it is the simplicity, devoid of guile or subterfuge, that is “Hold My Mule’s” greatest strength. The plain, folksy style is not only easily readable but easily recognizable: We all have a Grandma Luthie—that sassy and loving Elder female in the family who doesn’t take anything from anyone—Husband included. Violent and hurtful tales evoke sympathy and compassion, but Bro. Carter neither elicits it nor rejoices in it. “Hold My Mule,” is not about a victim; It’s about a victory. Biblical verses interspersed throughout—particularly at its conclusion—vividly amplify this theme. 

To bare one’s life story for the analysis and critique of others is never easy. Bro. John H. Carter does it with the modesty and aplomb that has become his mantra. A definite read for students of history and everyone who believes in the perseverance and dedication of the human spirit, “Hold My Mule,” reminds us that life isn’t meant to be lived alone and that our lives and our dreams connect us not only with each other but across generations.