Review of The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid

[Rizalyn Del Rosario]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid" by Gary Robinson.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid by Gary Robinson is about two people who have the same addiction to alcohol. Duke is a sword swallower in the circus; it is his way of living. Because of this, he needs to take drugs and alcohol to be able to be awake and sane throughout their entire journey. Gary is a kid living in Chico, who wants to become a writer someday. Due to the nature he grew up, he would leave his mother because of her alcoholic problems. But, little did he know, he would become like her. These two people who shares the same addiction will find comfort from one another.

What I like about the book is the way Duke talks about his circus family; he always takes pride everytime the topic is about them. I also like that Gary and Duke have different opinions on life, but they are able to acknowledge each other's point of view. I like the friends of Duke, they always helped him when he needed a place to settle down or a job that required his skills. I admire that Duke became a role model to Gary to be able to cure his alcohol addiction. He always reminded him that drinking will not serve him right and it will constantly ruin his life if he didn't stop doing it. Lastly, I appreciate that the author pursues his passion and acknowledges how the sword swallower helped him to know what he really wanted.

There is nothing that I don't like about the book. I appreciate that the author writes his story and what are the things he went through. Also, the way he tells the life of his friend, Duke.

I will rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars, because this book is the biography of the Gary and Duke. This book tackles the problems that they encounter and how they are able to manage to climb the slumps that they experience. Also, it is exceptionally edited and I don't notice a mistake.

I will recommend this book to young adults and adults, because it is something that they can acquire knowledge about. This novel will give them hope that there is someone who will become their greatest weapon to conquer their dilemmas in life. Lastly, it will help them realize that addiction can be cured if they are willing to take a step forward for the betterment of their lives.

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The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid
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